Pipestone County Public RecordsMinnesota

Pipestone County, MN has a population of approximately 9,000 (2022 estimate). The median age is about 44 years, with 21% under 18 and 23% 65 or older. Females slightly outnumber males (about 51% female, 49% male). The county is predominantly White (about 91%), with smaller populations of Native American (around 3%), Hispanic or Latino (3%), and other races/ethnicities making up the remainder.

Pipestone County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the sheriff’s office reported approximately 85 total criminal offenses, including 6 violent crimes and 79 property crimes. The violent crime rate stands at 0.21 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is 2.74 per 1,000—both below Minnesota’s averages. Residents benefit from prompt law enforcement response and public crime reporting systems. Overall, Pipestone County is considered a safe community with effective local policing and active neighborhood involvement.

Pipestone County, MN, had 6,098 registered voters in the 2020 general election, with a turnout rate of about 82%. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, choosing local, state, and federal officials. In the 2020 presidential race, 69% voted Republican, 28% Democratic. The county administers seven polling locations, typically managed by the Auditor-Treasurer’s office. Key issues include agriculture and rural healthcare. Major parties represented are Republican and Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL). Ballots and information are distributed equally, and election administration adheres strictly to Minnesota state regulations.

Pipestone County, MN, has around 5 public schools, including Pipestone Area High School. The high school graduation rate is about 90%, with approximately 17% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools generally score near the state average, with a GreatSchools rating of 6/10. Educational programs include vocational training and college prep courses. Adult education is available through community initiatives. School safety is ranked above average with low reported incidents.

As of 2022, Pipestone County, MN, had an employment rate of approximately 64.8%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (21%), Manufacturing (15%), and Retail Trade (11%). Leading occupations include Management (10%), Sales (9%), and Office Support (9%). About 77% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 17.2 minutes. While most residents work within the county, roughly 33% commute out, mainly to Sioux Falls, SD, and neighboring counties.

Pipestone County, MN, has a homeownership rate of around 77%, with median home values near $127,000 as of 2022. Median gross rent is approximately $660 monthly. The county features mainly single-family homes, with smaller multifamily units in Pipestone city. Neighborhoods range from historic districts in Pipestone to rural farmlands. Property values have shown modest growth, rising about 6% since 2020. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.0%, translating to an annual tax of about $1,270 on a median-priced home.