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

Total population
9,009
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,919/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,170
0.4% year-over-year change

Phelps County population

How many people live in Phelps County

Phelps County is home to 9,009 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.8% of Phelps County locals are male, and 48.2% are female.

Total population
9,009
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.8%
4,669
Female
48.2%
4,340
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,669 51.8% 2.4%
Female 4,340 48.2% -1.8%
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 Phelps County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
21.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,842 20.4% 0.6%
15 to 24 1,066 11.8% 1.9%
25 to 44 2,039 22.6% -2.2%
45 to 64 2,152 23.9% -0.9%
Over 65 1,910 21.2% 3.2%
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 Phelps County, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,809 97.8% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 93 1% -18.4%
Non-citizens 107 1.2% -36.7%
Racial breakdown
White
90.1%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.5%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 8,117 90.1%
Black or African American 77 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 41 0.5%
Asian 14 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0.1%
Two or more races 674 7.5%
Other 78 0.9%

Households in Phelps County

A peek inside Phelps County households

Phelps County has 3,916 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.6% are families, while the remaining 39.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,916
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,545
Family households
2,371
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,545 39.4% -0.6%
Family households 2,371 60.6% 4.7%
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 Phelps County

The housing landscape of Phelps County

Phelps County's housing consists of 4,170 units, with 77.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 5.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,170
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,245 77.8%
1 unit, attached 63 1.5%
2 units 91 2.2%
3 or 4 units 185 4.4%
5 to 9 units 142 3.4%
10 to 19 units 101 2.4%
20 to 49 units 78 1.9%
50 or more units 36 0.9%
Mobile home 218 5.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
56
5.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Phelps County

In Phelps County, the median construction year is 1968. About 22.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 946 22.7% 0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 409 9.8% 12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 353 8.5% -21.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 483 11.6% -10.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 562 13.5% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 418 10% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 440 10.6% 21.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 323 7.8% 0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 180 4.3% 36.4%
Built in 2020 or later 56 1.3% 5.7%
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.

Phelps County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,916 occupied housing units in Phelps County, 68.3% are owner-occupied, while 31.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,916
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,241
Owner occupied
2,675
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,241 31.7% 7.8%
Owner occupied 2,675 68.3% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

Phelps County housing costs

Housing costs in Phelps County come to a median of $848 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $815.

Median housing costs per month
$848/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 Phelps County
$815/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 Phelps County

Phelps County education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Phelps County went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 19.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 130 1.9% -7.1%
High school diploma 2,498 36.6% -0.4%
College diploma 1,561 22.9% -6.8%
Associate degree 758 11.1% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,322 19.4% 5.1%
Graduate degree 553 8.1% 29.2%
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 Phelps County

How much people earn in Phelps County

The average annual household income in Phelps County was $102,125 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +13% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,919, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Phelps County
$102,125/year
13.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Phelps County
$68,919/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Phelps County income by age

In Phelps County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $92,132. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,882 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,264, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,808 in earnings. Overall, 88% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,264 7.0%
25 - 44 $92,132 8.2%
45 - 64 $90,882 2.7%
Over 65 $44,808 5.6%
Above poverty level
7,563
Below poverty level
1,027
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,563 88% 2.2%
Below poverty level 1,027 12% -9.8%

Employment in Phelps County

Workforce and job types in Phelps County

The job market in Phelps County is powered by 4,611 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 55.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,611
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,050
Blue collar
1,561
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,050 66.2% 3.0%
Blue collar 1,561 33.8% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
55.4%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 717 15.6% -5.2%
Private companies 2,553 55.4% -1.2%
Governmental workers 840 18.2% 8.1%
Not for profit companies 501 10.9% 31.8%
Unemployment rate
1.2%
5.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Phelps County stands at 1.2%, 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 Phelps County

How people get around in Phelps County

In Phelps County, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,140 90.5% 2.9%
Bicycle 3 0.1% N/A
Walk 141 3.1% -4.1%
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 Phelps County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68836 1,908 673 $86,806 $107,116
68863 1,410 579 $100,929 $101,742
68923 133 57 $65,750 $63,653
68927 1,130 488 $69,167 $77,078
68940 518 175 $107,841 $135,347
68949 6,662 2,962 $63,273 $106,892
68958 613 241 $73,021 $89,176
68982 591 251 $66,250 $77,129

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FAQs about Phelps County demographics 

What is the total population of Phelps County?

Phelps County has a total population of 9,009 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Phelps County?

The gender ratio in Phelps County is as follows:
  • 51.8% males (4,669 residents)
  • 48.2% females (4,340 residents)

What is the median age in Phelps County?

The median age in Phelps County is 41.4.

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

The age distribution in Phelps County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (1,842 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (1,066 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (2,039 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (2,152 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.2% (1,910 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Phelps County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Phelps County is as follows:
  • White: 90.1% (8,117 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (77 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (41 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (14 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.5% (674 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (78 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Phelps County.

How many housing units are there in Phelps County?

There are 4,170 housing units in Phelps 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 Phelps County and what is the average household size?

Phelps County has a total of 3,916 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Phelps County?

Phelps County has a median household income of $68,919, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.8% in Phelps County, with a workforce of 4,611 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.2% (3,050 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.8% (1,561 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (717 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.4% (2,553 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (840 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (501 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