Chippewa County Public RecordsMinnesota

As of the 2020 Census, Chippewa County, MN, had a population of 12,598. The median age was 44.8 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. Racially, the county was 92.7% White, 2.2% Native American, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 3.2% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 5.4% of the population.

Chippewa County, MN, has about 5,000 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include federal, state, county, city, and school board offices. In the 2020 presidential election, 64% voted Republican and 34% Democrat. Polling locations are at 10 precincts, including Montevideo City Hall. Key issues are rural infrastructure and agricultural policy. The County Auditor-Treasurer administers elections, ensuring compliance with state regulations. Both the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) and Republican parties are active. Turnout in 2020 was 84%, reflecting strong civic engagement.

Chippewa County, MN has 7 public schools, including 1 high school, serving approximately 1,500 K-12 students. About 91% of adults hold a high school diploma, while roughly 18% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores in the county schools are near or slightly below state averages. School safety is prioritized, with minimal reported incidents. Educational programs include career-technical training and digital literacy. Adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges and extension services, supporting lifelong learning in the community.

As of 2022, Chippewa County, MN, had an employment rate of approximately 57%. Major employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance (20%), Manufacturing (13%), and Retail Trade (11%). The leading occupations are in production, office/administrative support, and sales. Around 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 17 minutes. About 74% of employed residents work within Chippewa County, while others commute to neighboring counties like Kandiyohi and Yellow Medicine.

Chippewa County, MN has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $140,000 and median gross rents near $720 per month. Housing consists primarily of single-family homes, with some multi-family units in towns like Montevideo and Clara City. Recent trends show stable or slightly rising property values. Neighborhoods are generally quiet, with modest lot sizes. Annual property taxes average approximately 1.1% of a home’s value, or about $1,540 on a median-priced home. Rental options are limited, contributing to low vacancy rates and steady demand.

Chippewa County, MN, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 110 total crimes, including 14 violent crimes and 96 property crimes, leading to a crime rate of about 1,100 per 100,000 residents. Law enforcement emphasizes community-oriented policing and transparency, with annual crime data accessible through public reports. Despite occasional spikes in property offenses, overall safety levels remain high, with most residents expressing confidence in local public safety efforts.