Dakota County, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,354
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,329/yr
-1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,808
0.2% year-over-year change

Dakota County population

How many people live in Dakota County

Dakota County is home to 21,354 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Dakota County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
21,354
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
10,599
Female
50.4%
10,755
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,599 49.6% -0.6%
Female 10,755 50.4% 0.8%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Dakota County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.9% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27% of the population, while another 20.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.9%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
27%
45 to 64
20.9%
Over 65
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,322 24.9% 0.0%
15 to 24 3,056 14.3% 6.9%
25 to 44 5,768 27% -1.1%
45 to 64 4,466 20.9% -1.9%
Over 65 2,742 12.8% -0.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Dakota County, 73.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 44.7% of locals are Caucasian, 8.7% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 20.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.6%
Non-citizens
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,623 73.2% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,118 14.6% -0.3%
Non-citizens 2,613 12.2% 15.5%
Racial breakdown
White
44.7%
Black or African American
8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.4%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
20.6%
Other
19.6%
Value Percent
White 9,548 44.7%
Black or African American 1,852 8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 722 3.4%
Asian 646 3%
Two or more races 4,403 20.6%
Other 4,183 19.6%

Households in Dakota County

A peek inside Dakota County households

Dakota County has 7,459 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70% are families, while the remaining 30% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,459
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,239
Family households
5,220
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,239 30% -2.1%
Family households 5,220 70% 4.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Dakota County

The housing landscape of Dakota County

Dakota County's housing consists of 7,808 units, with 69.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,808
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,407 69.2%
1 unit, attached 187 2.4%
2 units 189 2.4%
3 or 4 units 231 3%
5 to 9 units 332 4.2%
10 to 19 units 571 7.3%
20 to 49 units 372 4.8%
50 or more units 26 0.3%
Mobile home 493 6.3%
Homes built since 2020
205
88.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dakota County

In Dakota County, the median construction year is 1974. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,268 16.2% 7.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 365 4.7% -27.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 877 11.2% 8.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 741 9.5% 8.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,602 20.5% -6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 764 9.8% 10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,147 14.7% 0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 414 5.3% -29.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 425 5.4% 11.3%
Built in 2020 or later 205 2.6% 88.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Dakota County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,459 occupied housing units in Dakota County, 63.9% are owner-occupied, while 36.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,459
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,692
Owner occupied
4,767
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,692 36.1% 4.1%
Owner occupied 4,767 63.9% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
4.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Dakota County housing costs

Housing costs in Dakota County come to a median of $1,041 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,069.

Median housing costs per month
$1,041/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Dakota County
$1,069/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Dakota County

Dakota County education at a glance

About 43.7% of the population in Dakota County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 11.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,897 12.6% 19.4%
High school diploma 6,581 43.7% -0.1%
College diploma 3,040 20.2% -3.1%
Associate degree 1,427 9.5% -6.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,688 11.2% -4.1%
Graduate degree 424 2.8% -10.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Dakota County

How much people earn in Dakota County

The average annual household income in Dakota County was $91,843 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,329, reflecting a -1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dakota County
$91,843/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dakota County
$70,329/year
-1.9% year-over-year change

Dakota County income by age

In Dakota County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,316. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,174 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,852, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,000 in earnings. Overall, 88.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,852 -6.7%
25 - 44 $90,316 2.5%
45 - 64 $74,174 -11.6%
Over 65 $60,000 12.8%
Above poverty level
18,517
Below poverty level
2,409
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,517 88.5% -0.4%
Below poverty level 2,409 11.5% 3.4%

Employment in Dakota County

Workforce and job types in Dakota County

The job market in Dakota County is powered by 10,546 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 73.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,546
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,211
Blue collar
4,335
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,211 58.9% 0.8%
Blue collar 4,335 41.1% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
73.2%
Governmental workers
9.2%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 908 8.6% 9.3%
Private companies 7,725 73.2% -2.0%
Governmental workers 973 9.2% -9.0%
Not for profit companies 940 8.9% 23.9%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
13.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dakota County stands at 4.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Dakota County

How people get around in Dakota County

Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,390 90.3% 0.2%
Bus or trolleybus 56 0.5% -32.5%
Motorcycle 24 0.2% 60.0%
Bicycle 137 1.3% 328.1%
Walk 99 1% -10.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Dakota County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68030 671 253 $76,442 $88,140
68731 3,469 1,030 $79,924 $95,785
68733 1,101 439 $64,479 $78,968
68741 585 233 $79,583 $139,921
68743 814 284 $71,667 $92,974
68776 15,373 5,492 $68,750 $89,732
68785 234 80 $113,750 $111,848

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FAQs about Dakota County demographics 

What is the total population of Dakota County?

Dakota County has a total population of 21,354 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dakota County?

The gender ratio in Dakota County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (10,599 residents)
  • 50.4% females (10,755 residents)

What is the median age in Dakota County?

The median age in Dakota County is 32.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dakota County?

The age distribution in Dakota County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.9% (5,322 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (3,056 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27% (5,768 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.9% (4,466 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.8% (2,742 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota County is as follows:
  • White: 44.7% (9,548 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.7% (1,852 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.4% (722 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (646 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.6% (4,403 residents)
  • Other: 19.6% (4,183 residents)

What percentage of the population in Dakota County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.2% of the population in Dakota County.

How many housing units are there in Dakota County?

There are 7,808 housing units in Dakota County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Dakota County and what is the average household size?

Dakota County has a total of 7,459 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dakota County?

Dakota County has a median household income of $70,329, representing a -1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dakota County?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Dakota County, with a workforce of 10,546 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.9% (6,211 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.1% (4,335 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (908 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.2% (7,725 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.2% (973 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (940 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025