Nobles County Public RecordsMinnesota

As of the 2020 Census, Nobles County, MN had a population of 21,973. The median age was 38.1 years, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female residents. Racially, the county was 72.8% White, 2.9% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, 17.3% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), and 1.4% Native American. The population under 18 comprised 26%, while those 65 and older made up 16.7%.

Nobles County, MN, had 14,205 registered voters for the 2022 general election, with voter turnout of 57%. Elections include federal, state, county, and local offices, with polling at 17 precinct locations. In 2020, Republicans secured 61% of the presidential vote; Democrats received 36%. Ballot issues typically involve school funding and local infrastructure. The Nobles County Auditor-Treasurer supervises election administration. Major parties are Republican and DFL (Democratic-Farmer-Labor). Elections are conducted in accordance with Minnesota statutes to ensure transparency and accessibility.

Nobles County, MN, has 11 public schools serving approximately 3,400 students; Worthington High School is the largest. The high school graduation rate is 80%, and about 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school ratings fall between 4-6/10. The county offers adult education through Minnesota West Community and Technical College. Schools focus on safety with updated protocols and school resource officers. Specialized educational programs include English Language Learner (ELL) and vocational tracks to support diverse student needs.

As of 2022, Nobles County, MN had an employment rate of 68.8%, with major industries including manufacturing (23%), health care and social assistance (18%), and agriculture (11%). The most common occupations are in production (20%), management (14%), and transportation/material moving (12%). About 83% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 14 minutes. Nearly 47% work within the county, while others commute to adjacent areas such as Rock and Jackson counties.

Nobles County, MN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 72%, with median home values around $153,000 as of 2023. The rental vacancy rate is about 4%, and median gross rent stands at $800 per month. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some multi-family units in larger towns like Worthington. Recent market trends show modest annual price increases of 3-5%. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value, and neighborhoods are mostly quiet, residential areas interspersed with rural farmland and small towns, offering affordable living compared to state averages.

Nobles County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported 145 total criminal offenses, including 18 violent crimes and 127 property crimes, according to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The crime rate stood at approximately 7.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement encourages community participation in reporting, contributing to a stable safety environment. While minor fluctuations occur year to year, Nobles County consistently remains below the national average for both violent and property crimes, reflecting its status as a generally safe community.