Houston County Public RecordsMinnesota

Houston County, MN, has 13 public schools, including three high schools, and a high school graduation rate of about 91%. About 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, near the national average. Average standardized test scores align with state averages, and schools prioritize safety, reporting low incident rates. Programs include advanced placement, technical education, and special education services. The student-teacher ratio averages 13:1, fostering individualized attention. Adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges and initiatives. Overall, Houston County schools offer solid academics and support services in a safe environment.

Houston County, MN had an employment rate of approximately 65% in 2022. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (19.5%), Manufacturing (17%), and Retail Trade (12%). Top occupations are management, office/admin support, and production roles. About 68% of residents commute outside their hometown for work, with a mean travel time of 22 minutes. La Crosse, WI, and Winona, MN, are common employment destinations for commuters from Houston County.

Houston County, MN, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $207,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $720 per month. The area’s housing stock is largely single-family homes, with some multifamily units in towns like Caledonia and La Crescent. Property values have risen slightly, about 4% over the past year. Popular neighborhoods include Caledonia, La Crescent, and Spring Grove. The property tax rate averages 1.18%. These factors make Houston County attractive for families seeking affordability in southeastern Minnesota’s scenic bluff country.

Houston County, MN, had 11,214 registered voters for the 2022 general election. The county holds local, state, and federal elections, with results showing about 55% voter turnout in 2022. Polling locations include La Crescent, Caledonia, and Houston City Halls. Key issues include rural infrastructure and agriculture. Elections are administered by the Houston County Auditor's office. Major parties—DFL and GOP—competed closely; in 2022, GOP candidates received around 52% of votes for county offices. Voters can register in person or online, and absentee voting is available.

Houston County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was about 890 incidents per 100,000 residents, with property crimes (e.g., theft, burglary) comprising nearly 80% of reported cases. Violent crimes were rare, totaling fewer than 20 incidents countywide. The Houston County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages community reporting and crime prevention, resulting in a high case clearance rate of approximately 65%. Safety initiatives and public awareness campaigns have contributed to a downward trend in crime over recent years.

As of the 2020 Census, Houston County, MN, had a population of 18,662. The median age was 43.4 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female. The racial makeup was predominantly White (95.1%), with small percentages of Black or African American (0.6%), Asian (0.5%), Native American (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (1.7%). The county exhibits an aging demographic, with about 20% of residents aged 65 or older.