Faribault County Public RecordsMinnesota

As of the 2020 Census, Faribault County, MN had a population of 13,921. The median age was 45.5 years, with 21% under 18 and 24% aged 65 or older. The population was 50.1% female and 49.9% male. Racially, the county was 93.7% White, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 3.7% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Faribault County, MN, had approximately 9,890 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, managed by the County Auditor’s office and 14 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 68% of votes, while Joe Biden received 30%. Major parties include Republican and DFL (Democratic–Farmer–Labor). Recent issues include rural broadband and agricultural policy. Voter turnout often exceeds 75%. The administration ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, with accessible absentee and early voting options available to all eligible residents.

Faribault County, MN, has 9 public schools (including 2 high schools), with a high school graduation rate of approximately 92%. About 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average student-teacher ratio is 13:1, and schools score 6/10 in state performance ratings. Adult education is supported through regional programs. School safety is above the state average, with low reported incidents. Educational offerings include STEM, arts, and career-technical programs, aiming to prepare students for diverse post-secondary pathways.

Faribault County, MN had an unemployment rate of approximately 3.4% in 2023. The leading industries are Agriculture (18%), Health Care & Social Assistance (16%), and Manufacturing (13%). Major occupation types include Production (17%), Office & Administrative Support (14%), and Management (13%). About 70% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 18 minutes; over 50% work outside their home city, mostly in Blue Earth, Wells, and surrounding counties. Total employment in the county is about 6,000 people.

Faribault County, MN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with the median home value around $122,000 and median rent near $700 per month. The housing market remains stable, with moderate appreciation over the past year. Most homes are single-family houses, though some multi-unit dwellings exist, especially in larger towns like Blue Earth and Wells. Neighborhoods offer a blend of rural and small-town living. Annual property taxes average $1,200–$1,600 per year, depending on location and home value, making the area relatively affordable for both owners and renters.

Faribault County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total crime rate of approximately 950 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crimes accounting for around 80 cases and property crimes for about 210 cases. Law enforcement agencies encourage prompt reporting, resulting in nearly 95% of cases being documented. The county’s proactive policing and community engagement contribute to its reputation as a safe rural area, with both violent and property crime rates consistently lower than Minnesota’s overall averages.