Red Willow County, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,557
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,697/yr
6.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,150
-0.3% year-over-year change

Red Willow County population

How many people live in Red Willow County

Red Willow County is home to 10,557 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Red Willow County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
10,557
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
5,250
Female
50.3%
5,307
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,250 49.7% -1.5%
Female 5,307 50.3% 0.5%
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 Red Willow County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,963 18.6% 4.5%
15 to 24 1,320 12.5% -13.1%
25 to 44 2,341 22.2% 1.5%
45 to 64 2,713 25.7% 1.2%
Over 65 2,220 21% -0.2%
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 Red Willow County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,269 97.3% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 132 1.2% 21.1%
Non-citizens 156 1.5% 126.1%
Racial breakdown
White
88.9%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.9%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 9,385 88.9%
Black or African American 103 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.2%
Asian 27 0.3%
Two or more races 729 6.9%
Other 296 2.8%

Households in Red Willow County

A peek inside Red Willow County households

Red Willow County has 4,504 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.7% are families, while the remaining 40.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,504
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,817
Family households
2,687
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,817 40.3% -8.8%
Family households 2,687 59.7% 9.7%
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 Red Willow County

The housing landscape of Red Willow County

Red Willow County's housing consists of 5,150 units, with 81.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,150
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,189 81.3%
1 unit, attached 41 0.8%
2 units 110 2.1%
3 or 4 units 69 1.3%
5 to 9 units 179 3.5%
10 to 19 units 116 2.2%
20 to 49 units 186 3.6%
50 or more units 30 0.6%
Mobile home 215 4.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
38
46.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Red Willow County

In Red Willow County, the median construction year is 1959. About 30.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,555 30.2% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 564 11% 12.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 525 10.2% -4.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 619 12% -9.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 782 15.2% 12.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 395 7.7% -2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 279 5.4% -16.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 249 4.8% -4.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 144 2.8% -4.6%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.7% 46.1%
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.

Red Willow County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,504 occupied housing units in Red Willow County, 73% are owner-occupied, while 27% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,504
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,215
Owner occupied
3,289
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,215 27% 1.9%
Owner occupied 3,289 73% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.5%
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.

Red Willow County housing costs

Housing costs in Red Willow County come to a median of $826 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $819.

Median housing costs per month
$826/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 Red Willow County
$819/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 Red Willow County

Red Willow County education at a glance

About 38.3% of the population in Red Willow County went to high school, while 26.2% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 205 2.5% 51.9%
High school diploma 3,134 38.3% 2.0%
College diploma 2,144 26.2% 0.1%
Associate degree 899 11% -9.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,308 16% -5.5%
Graduate degree 500 6.1% -6.2%
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 Red Willow County

How much people earn in Red Willow County

The average annual household income in Red Willow County was $86,040 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,697, reflecting a +6.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Red Willow County
$86,040/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Red Willow County
$63,697/year
6.2% year-over-year change

Red Willow County income by age

In Red Willow County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,643. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,694 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,828 in earnings. Overall, 85.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,750 47.7%
25 - 44 $89,643 5.4%
45 - 64 $90,694 7.4%
Over 65 $40,828 2.6%
Above poverty level
8,463
Below poverty level
1,384
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,463 85.9% -2.3%
Below poverty level 1,384 14.1% -2.8%

Employment in Red Willow County

Workforce and job types in Red Willow County

The job market in Red Willow County is powered by 5,290 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15% run their own businesses, 63.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,290
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,995
Blue collar
1,295
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,995 75.5% 0.6%
Blue collar 1,295 24.5% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
15%
Private companies
63.4%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 793 15% -5.3%
Private companies 3,354 63.4% -1.8%
Governmental workers 775 14.6% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 368 7% 11.8%
Unemployment rate
1.4%
-6.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Red Willow County stands at 1.4%, 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 Red Willow County

How people get around in Red Willow County

Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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 4,701 91% -2.2%
Bus or trolleybus 30 0.6% N/A
Motorcycle 1 0% N/A
Walk 151 2.9% 45.2%
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 Red Willow County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69034 895 327 $61,058 $79,317
69036 35 20 $0 $74,875
69001 9,054 3,879 $62,982 $85,625
69020 655 223 $90,625 $97,670
69022 1,575 687 $64,719 $86,686
69026 148 94 $38,182 $75,212

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FAQs about Red Willow County demographics 

What is the total population of Red Willow County?

Red Willow County has a total population of 10,557 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Red Willow County?

The gender ratio in Red Willow County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (5,250 residents)
  • 50.3% females (5,307 residents)

What is the median age in Red Willow County?

The median age in Red Willow County is 41.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Red Willow County?

The age distribution in Red Willow County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (1,963 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (1,320 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (2,341 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (2,713 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (2,220 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Red Willow County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Red Willow County is as follows:
  • White: 88.9% (9,385 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (103 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (27 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.9% (729 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (296 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Red Willow County.

How many housing units are there in Red Willow County?

There are 5,150 housing units in Red Willow County, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Red Willow County has a total of 4,504 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Red Willow County?

Red Willow County has a median household income of $63,697, representing a +6.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.6% in Red Willow County, with a workforce of 5,290 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.5% (3,995 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.5% (1,295 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15% (793 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.4% (3,354 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (775 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (368 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