Scotts Bluff County, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
35,843
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,614/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,480
0.0% year-over-year change

Scotts Bluff County population

How many people live in Scotts Bluff County

Scotts Bluff County is home to 35,843 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Scotts Bluff County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
35,843
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
17,396
Female
51.5%
18,447
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,396 48.5% 0.0%
Female 18,447 51.5% -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 Scotts Bluff County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,085 19.8% -1.2%
15 to 24 4,416 12.3% 0.1%
25 to 44 8,459 23.6% -0.3%
45 to 64 8,390 23.4% -1.6%
Over 65 7,493 20.9% 2.1%
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 Scotts Bluff County, 95% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 34,048 95% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 923 2.6% 19.9%
Non-citizens 872 2.4% 2.4%
Racial breakdown
White
75.8%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.1%
Other
7.2%
Value Percent
White 27,159 75.8%
Black or African American 202 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 610 1.7%
Asian 239 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 5,067 14.1%
Other 2,562 7.2%

Households in Scotts Bluff County

A peek inside Scotts Bluff County households

Scotts Bluff County has 15,078 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.8% are families, while the remaining 39.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,078
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,910
Family households
9,168
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,910 39.2% 2.8%
Family households 9,168 60.8% -1.9%
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 Scotts Bluff County

The housing landscape of Scotts Bluff County

Scotts Bluff County's housing consists of 16,480 units, with 75.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 5.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,480
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,460 75.6%
1 unit, attached 621 3.8%
2 units 316 1.9%
3 or 4 units 837 5.1%
5 to 9 units 483 2.9%
10 to 19 units 234 1.4%
20 to 49 units 475 2.9%
50 or more units 163 1%
Mobile home 856 5.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 35 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
39
14.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Scotts Bluff County

In Scotts Bluff County, the median construction year is 1969. About 18.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,119 18.9% 6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,269 7.7% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,962 11.9% -5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,991 12.1% -14.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,707 22.5% 2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,018 6.2% -15.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,150 7% 7.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,446 8.8% 29.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 779 4.7% -0.4%
Built in 2020 or later 39 0.2% 14.7%
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.

Scotts Bluff County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,078 occupied housing units in Scotts Bluff County, 69.3% are owner-occupied, while 30.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,078
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,627
Owner occupied
10,451
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,627 30.7% -3.2%
Owner occupied 10,451 69.3% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
8.5%
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.

Scotts Bluff County housing costs

Housing costs in Scotts Bluff County come to a median of $949 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $909.

Median housing costs per month
$949/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 Scotts Bluff County
$909/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 Scotts Bluff County

Scotts Bluff County education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Scotts Bluff County went to high school, while 26.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 860 3.2% -17.6%
High school diploma 9,463 34.8% -1.1%
College diploma 7,292 26.8% 0.4%
Associate degree 2,766 10.2% 1.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,474 16.5% 0.0%
Graduate degree 2,330 8.6% 9.6%
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 Scotts Bluff County

How much people earn in Scotts Bluff County

The average annual household income in Scotts Bluff County was $82,943 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,614, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Scotts Bluff County
$82,943/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Scotts Bluff County
$63,614/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Scotts Bluff County income by age

In Scotts Bluff County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,636. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,121 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,967, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,013 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,967 -0.7%
25 - 44 $79,636 -4.6%
45 - 64 $72,121 5.0%
Over 65 $50,013 9.2%
Above poverty level
30,121
Below poverty level
4,464
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,121 87.1% 1.0%
Below poverty level 4,464 12.9% -7.6%

Employment in Scotts Bluff County

Workforce and job types in Scotts Bluff County

The job market in Scotts Bluff County is powered by 17,531 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 59.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,531
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
13,264
Blue collar
4,267
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,264 75.7% 3.5%
Blue collar 4,267 24.3% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
59.1%
Governmental workers
20.4%
Not for profit companies
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,784 10.2% -7.1%
Private companies 10,358 59.1% 1.4%
Governmental workers 3,576 20.4% 13.1%
Not for profit companies 1,813 10.3% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
2.7%
-20.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Scotts Bluff County stands at 2.7%, 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 Scotts Bluff County

How people get around in Scotts Bluff County

Commuting methods vary: 90.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 15,619 90.6% 3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.1% 42.9%
Bicycle 60 0.4% 39.5%
Walk 316 1.8% -19.0%
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 Scotts Bluff County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69334 2,418 992 $62,232 $76,485
69341 10,482 4,187 $73,638 $87,891
69352 552 290 $56,229 $63,352
69353 46 25 $26,042 $39,060
69355 146 64 $47,000 $52,689
69356 2,114 837 $73,787 $78,190
69357 3,677 1,505 $70,104 $85,750
69358 2,062 953 $52,159 $65,219
69361 17,187 7,345 $58,623 $83,074

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FAQs about Scotts Bluff County demographics 

What is the total population of Scotts Bluff County?

Scotts Bluff County has a total population of 35,843 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 Scotts Bluff County?

The gender ratio in Scotts Bluff County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (17,396 residents)
  • 51.5% females (18,447 residents)

What is the median age in Scotts Bluff County?

The median age in Scotts Bluff County is 40.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Scotts Bluff County?

The age distribution in Scotts Bluff County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (7,085 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (4,416 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (8,459 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (8,390 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (7,493 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Scotts Bluff County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Scotts Bluff County is as follows:
  • White: 75.8% (27,159 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (202 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (610 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (239 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.1% (5,067 residents)
  • Other: 7.2% (2,562 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95% of the population in Scotts Bluff County.

How many housing units are there in Scotts Bluff County?

There are 16,480 housing units in Scotts Bluff County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Scotts Bluff County has a total of 15,078 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Scotts Bluff County?

Scotts Bluff County has a median household income of $63,614, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.3% in Scotts Bluff County, with a workforce of 17,531 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.7% (13,264 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.3% (4,267 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (1,784 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.1% (10,358 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.4% (3,576 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.3% (1,813 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