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

Total population
9,844
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,215/yr
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,991
0.5% year-over-year change

Wayne County population

How many people live in Wayne County

Wayne County is home to 9,844 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Wayne County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
9,844
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
5,035
Female
48.8%
4,809
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,035 51.2% 1.2%
Female 4,809 48.8% -0.0%
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 Wayne County is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 27.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.6% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
30
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
27.3%
25 to 44
19.6%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
16.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,694 17.2% 3.9%
15 to 24 2,688 27.3% -0.3%
25 to 44 1,933 19.6% -1.9%
45 to 64 1,879 19.1% -0.8%
Over 65 1,650 16.8% 3.5%
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 Wayne County, 92.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,086 92.3% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 322 3.3% 12.6%
Non-citizens 436 4.4% 17.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86.3%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
4.9%
Value Percent
White 8,496 86.3%
Black or African American 101 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 90 0.9%
Asian 30 0.3%
Two or more races 648 6.6%
Other 479 4.9%

Households in Wayne County

A peek inside Wayne County households

Wayne County has 3,753 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.5% are families, while the remaining 38.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,753
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,444
Family households
2,309
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,444 38.5% -5.4%
Family households 2,309 61.5% 3.3%
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 Wayne County

The housing landscape of Wayne County

Wayne County's housing consists of 3,991 units, with 74.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,991
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,983 74.7%
1 unit, attached 97 2.4%
2 units 288 7.2%
3 or 4 units 114 2.9%
5 to 9 units 199 5%
10 to 19 units 163 4.1%
20 to 49 units 55 1.4%
Mobile home 92 2.3%
Homes built since 2020
74
957.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wayne County

In Wayne County, the median construction year is 1967. About 25.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,034 25.9% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 184 4.6% 1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 476 11.9% -6.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 413 10.4% 12.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 491 12.3% -8.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 220 5.5% -17.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 348 8.7% 41.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 420 10.5% -1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 331 8.3% -18.3%
Built in 2020 or later 74 1.8% 957.1%
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.

Wayne County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,753 occupied housing units in Wayne County, 61.3% are owner-occupied, while 38.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,753
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,454
Owner occupied
2,299
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,454 38.7% 20.8%
Owner occupied 2,299 61.3% -10.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Wayne County housing costs

Housing costs in Wayne County come to a median of $919 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $800.

Median housing costs per month
$919/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 Wayne County
$800/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 Wayne County

Wayne County education at a glance

About 30.2% of the population in Wayne County went to high school, while 32.6% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 176 2.2% -2.8%
High school diploma 2,372 30.2% 2.4%
College diploma 2,557 32.6% -1.3%
Associate degree 787 10% -11.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,355 17.3% 9.4%
Graduate degree 596 7.6% 1.4%
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 Wayne County

How much people earn in Wayne County

The average annual household income in Wayne County was $83,400 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,215, reflecting a -2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wayne County
$83,400/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wayne County
$66,215/year
-2.2% year-over-year change

Wayne County income by age

In Wayne County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,206. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,765 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,879 in earnings. Overall, 86.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,250 5.4%
25 - 44 $77,206 -2.0%
45 - 64 $86,765 2.1%
Over 65 $54,879 0.6%
Above poverty level
7,179
Below poverty level
1,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,179 86.9% 1.4%
Below poverty level 1,083 13.1% 0.4%

Employment in Wayne County

Workforce and job types in Wayne County

The job market in Wayne County is powered by 5,198 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17% run their own businesses, 56.4% are employed by private companies, and 17.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,198
-2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,903
Blue collar
1,295
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,903 75.1% -3.1%
Blue collar 1,295 24.9% 0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
17%
Private companies
56.4%
Governmental workers
17.1%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 883 17% 13.8%
Private companies 2,932 56.4% -1.8%
Governmental workers 891 17.1% -11.9%
Not for profit companies 492 9.5% -10.7%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
24.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wayne County stands at 4.3%, 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 Wayne County

How people get around in Wayne County

Commuting methods vary: 76% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.3% 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 3,773 76% -4.3%
Taxicab 3 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 1 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 23 0.5% N/A
Walk 463 9.3% -0.4%
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 Wayne County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68047 2,094 715 $87,375 $105,963
68723 678 272 $74,512 $91,520
68740 925 324 $103,500 $119,365
68771 1,412 581 $83,580 $95,189
68784 1,740 631 $62,216 $75,584
68787 6,791 2,483 $60,275 $75,810
68790 931 410 $66,601 $95,288

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FAQs about Wayne County demographics 

What is the total population of Wayne County?

Wayne County has a total population of 9,844 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wayne County?

The gender ratio in Wayne County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (5,035 residents)
  • 48.8% females (4,809 residents)

What is the median age in Wayne County?

The median age in Wayne County is 30.

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

The age distribution in Wayne County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (1,694 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 27.3% (2,688 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.6% (1,933 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (1,879 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.8% (1,650 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County is as follows:
  • White: 86.3% (8,496 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (101 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (90 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (30 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (648 residents)
  • Other: 4.9% (479 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.3% of the population in Wayne County.

How many housing units are there in Wayne County?

There are 3,991 housing units in Wayne County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wayne County has a total of 3,753 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wayne County?

Wayne County has a median household income of $66,215, representing a -2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Wayne County, with a workforce of 5,198 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.1% (3,903 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.9% (1,295 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17% (883 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.4% (2,932 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.1% (891 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (492 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