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

Total population
7,724
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,354/yr
8.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,598
0.4% year-over-year change

Merrick County population

How many people live in Merrick County

Merrick County is home to 7,724 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Merrick County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
7,724
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
3,957
Female
48.8%
3,767
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,957 51.2% 0.3%
Female 3,767 48.8% 0.4%
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 Merrick County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
21.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,424 18.4% -1.0%
15 to 24 832 10.8% -1.9%
25 to 44 1,793 23.2% 1.6%
45 to 64 1,991 25.8% -0.9%
Over 65 1,684 21.8% 3.0%
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 Merrick County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,506 97.2% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 183 2.4% 37.6%
Non-citizens 35 0.4% -49.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.1%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 7,114 92.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.3%
Asian 57 0.7%
Two or more races 448 5.8%
Other 80 1%

Households in Merrick County

A peek inside Merrick County households

Merrick County has 3,205 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.9% are families, while the remaining 36.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,205
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,156
Family households
2,049
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,156 36.1% 0.3%
Family households 2,049 63.9% -0.4%
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 Merrick County

The housing landscape of Merrick County

Merrick County's housing consists of 3,598 units, with 86% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 3.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,598
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,095 86%
1 unit, attached 110 3.1%
2 units 49 1.4%
3 or 4 units 43 1.2%
5 to 9 units 117 3.2%
10 to 19 units 24 0.7%
20 to 49 units 30 0.8%
Mobile home 130 3.6%
Homes built since 2020
86
87.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Merrick County

In Merrick County, the median construction year is 1970. About 33% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,187 33% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 193 5.4% 16.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 155 4.3% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 234 6.5% -24.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 602 16.7% -4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 183 5.1% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 364 10.1% 2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 253 7% 2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 341 9.5% 22.2%
Built in 2020 or later 86 2.4% 87.0%
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.

Merrick County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,205 occupied housing units in Merrick County, 82.2% are owner-occupied, while 17.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,205
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
571
Owner occupied
2,634
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 571 17.8% -8.3%
Owner occupied 2,634 82.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.9%
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.

Merrick County housing costs

Housing costs in Merrick County come to a median of $961 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $750.

Median housing costs per month
$961/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 Merrick County
$750/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 Merrick County

Merrick County education at a glance

About 40% of the population in Merrick County went to high school, while 27.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 10.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 215 3.6% 18.8%
High school diploma 2,393 40% -1.9%
College diploma 1,644 27.5% -4.3%
Associate degree 690 11.5% 14.2%
Bachelor's degree 608 10.2% -5.7%
Graduate degree 432 7.2% 22.7%
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 Merrick County

How much people earn in Merrick County

The average annual household income in Merrick County was $88,303 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,354, reflecting a +8.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Merrick County
$88,303/year
9.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Merrick County
$68,354/year
8.8% year-over-year change

Merrick County income by age

In Merrick County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,036. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,153 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,801, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,511 in earnings. Overall, 92% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,801 5.8%
25 - 44 $88,036 9.9%
45 - 64 $77,153 29.0%
Over 65 $54,511 3.4%
Above poverty level
6,940
Below poverty level
601
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,940 92% 1.3%
Below poverty level 601 8% -8.2%

Employment in Merrick County

Workforce and job types in Merrick County

The job market in Merrick County is powered by 4,076 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19% run their own businesses, 57.3% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,076
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,857
Blue collar
1,219
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,857 70.1% -4.2%
Blue collar 1,219 29.9% 14.0%
Employer type
Self employees
19%
Private companies
57.3%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 775 19% -0.9%
Private companies 2,335 57.3% 0.3%
Governmental workers 612 15% -7.4%
Not for profit companies 354 8.7% 27.3%
Unemployment rate
0.4%
-40.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Merrick County stands at 0.4%, 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 Merrick County

How people get around in Merrick County

Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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 3,551 90.3% -0.8%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -33.3%
Walk 133 3.4% 1.5%
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 Merrick County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68801 30,824 11,391 $63,617 $82,783
68816 137 61 $61,685 $76,344
68826 3,944 1,593 $74,583 $96,017
68827 761 293 $89,063 $105,013
68628 848 369 $58,438 $77,368
68663 782 378 $57,333 $71,142
68864 958 407 $83,365 $100,368
68872 992 420 $84,500 $95,226

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FAQs about Merrick County demographics 

What is the total population of Merrick County?

Merrick County has a total population of 7,724 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Merrick County?

The gender ratio in Merrick County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (3,957 residents)
  • 48.8% females (3,767 residents)

What is the median age in Merrick County?

The median age in Merrick County is 43.2.

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

The age distribution in Merrick County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (1,424 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (832 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (1,793 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (1,991 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.8% (1,684 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Merrick County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Merrick County is as follows:
  • White: 92.1% (7,114 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (57 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (448 residents)
  • Other: 1% (80 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Merrick County.

How many housing units are there in Merrick County?

There are 3,598 housing units in Merrick County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Merrick County has a total of 3,205 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Merrick County?

Merrick County has a median household income of $68,354, representing a +8.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 99.6% in Merrick County, with a workforce of 4,076 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.1% (2,857 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.9% (1,219 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19% (775 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.3% (2,335 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (612 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (354 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