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

Total population
564
-9.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,000/yr
-10.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
357
-2.7% year-over-year change

Thomas County population

How many people live in Thomas County

Thomas County is home to 564 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Thomas County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
564
-9.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
274
Female
51.4%
290
Value Percent YoY change
Male 274 48.6% -9.0%
Female 290 51.4% -10.8%
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 Thomas County is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.9% are children under 15, then 5.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30% of the population, while another 16.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 39% are 65 or older.

Median age
53.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.9%
15 to 24
5.8%
25 to 44
30%
45 to 64
16.3%
Over 65
39%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 50 8.9% -45.6%
15 to 24 33 5.8% 13.8%
25 to 44 169 30% -11.5%
45 to 64 92 16.3% -14.0%
Over 65 220 39% 6.3%
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 Thomas County, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 8.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 543 96.3% -11.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18 3.2% 38.5%
Non-citizens 3 0.5% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
89.2%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.9%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 503 89.2%
Black or African American 11 2%
Two or more races 50 8.9%

Households in Thomas County

A peek inside Thomas County households

Thomas County has 304 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.2% are families, while the remaining 36.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
304
-4.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
112
Family households
192
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 112 36.8% 23.1%
Family households 192 63.2% -15.4%
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 Thomas County

The housing landscape of Thomas County

Thomas County's housing consists of 357 units, with 89.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
357
-2.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 321 89.9%
1 unit, attached 8 2.2%
10 to 19 units 3 0.8%
Mobile home 25 7%
Homes built since 2020
3
-40.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Thomas County

In Thomas County, the median construction year is 1961. About 33% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% 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, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 118 33% -10.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 15 4.2% -37.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 44 12.3% 12.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 13 3.6% -7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 48 13.4% 20.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 50 14% -15.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 21 5.9% 5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 28 7.8% 47.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17 4.8% 13.3%
Built in 2020 or later 3 0.8% -40.0%
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.

Thomas County occupancy rates

Out of the 304 occupied housing units in Thomas County, 68.1% are owner-occupied, while 31.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
304
-4.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
97
Owner occupied
207
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 97 31.9% 1.0%
Owner occupied 207 68.1% -6.8%
Unoccupied housing units
14.8%
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.

Thomas County housing costs

Housing costs in Thomas County come to a median of $579 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $638.

Median housing costs per month
$579/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 Thomas County
$638/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 Thomas County

Thomas County education at a glance

About 32.7% of the population in Thomas County went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 19.8% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17 3.4% 13.3%
High school diploma 164 32.7% 10.8%
College diploma 83 16.6% -29.1%
Associate degree 99 19.8% -6.6%
Bachelor's degree 109 21.8% -0.9%
Graduate degree 29 5.8% 11.5%
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 Thomas County

How much people earn in Thomas County

The average annual household income in Thomas County was $67,952 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -18.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,000, reflecting a -10.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Thomas County
$67,952/year
-18.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Thomas County
$65,000/year
-10.6% year-over-year change

Thomas County income by age

In Thomas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,000 overall. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $75,750 -16.8%
45 - 64 $75,000 2.3%
Over 65 $55,938 1.1%
Above poverty level
514
Below poverty level
50
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 514 91.1% -13.8%
Below poverty level 50 8.9% 66.7%

Employment in Thomas County

Workforce and job types in Thomas County

The job market in Thomas County is powered by 326 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.1% run their own businesses, 50.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
326
-8.9% year-over-year change
White collar
242
Blue collar
84
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 242 74.2% -1.6%
Blue collar 84 25.8% -25.0%
Employer type
Self employees
18.1%
Private companies
50.9%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 59 18.1% -10.6%
Private companies 166 50.9% -8.3%
Governmental workers 53 16.3% -24.3%
Not for profit companies 48 14.7% 17.1%
Unemployment rate
2.1%
75.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Thomas County stands at 2.1%, 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 Thomas County

How people get around in Thomas County

Commuting methods vary: 72.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14.4% 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 237 72.7% -7.8%
Walk 47 14.4% -17.5%
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 Thomas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69142 53 31 $0 $88,229
69161 53 35 $36,583 $48,746
69163 847 322 $73,750 $98,632
69166 603 294 $58,929 $68,225

Explore more communities

FAQs about Thomas County demographics 

What is the total population of Thomas County?

Thomas County has a total population of 564 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 -9.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Thomas County?

The gender ratio in Thomas County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (274 residents)
  • 51.4% females (290 residents)

What is the median age in Thomas County?

The median age in Thomas County is 53.3.

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

The age distribution in Thomas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.9% (50 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 5.8% (33 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30% (169 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.3% (92 residents)
  • Over 65: 39% (220 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Thomas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Thomas County is as follows:
  • White: 89.2% (503 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (11 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.9% (50 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in Thomas County.

How many housing units are there in Thomas County?

There are 357 housing units in Thomas County, reflecting a -2.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Thomas County has a total of 304 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Thomas County?

Thomas County has a median household income of $65,000, representing a -10.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.9% in Thomas County, with a workforce of 326 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (242 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (84 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.1% (59 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.9% (166 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (53 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.7% (48 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