County Crime & Safety

Sherburne County, MN, reported a crime rate of 1,474 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, notably below the national average. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, comprised about 8% of total cases, with 120 reported violent incidents. Property crimes (burglary, theft, vandalism) were the most common, totaling approximately 1,200 cases. The county maintains regular reporting through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and local law enforcement, ensuring transparency and public safety awareness. Overall, Sherburne County offers a relatively safe environment compared to state and national levels.

Elections

Sherburne County, MN, had about 61,000 registered voters in the 2022 general election. The county conducts elections for federal, state, county, and municipal offices, with 26 polling locations available. In the 2020 presidential election, about 67% voted Republican and 30% Democratic. Key issues include school funding and infrastructure. The county’s elections are administered by the Sherburne County Auditor-Treasurer’s office. Major parties are Republican and Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL). Voter turnout in the 2022 general election was approximately 72%. Voter registration, sample ballots, and polling site details are available via the county’s official website.

Demographics

As of 2023, Sherburne County, MN, has an estimated population of around 99,000. The median age is approximately 37. The gender split is nearly even, with 50.4% male and 49.6% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (over 89%), with smaller populations of Black or African American (2.7%), Asian (1.5%), and two or more races (4.5%). Hispanic or Latino residents comprise about 4.2% of the population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Sherburne County, MN, serves over 20,000 K-12 students in approximately 38 public and private schools, including 5 high schools. The high school graduation rate stands at around 89%, while about 26% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are above the Minnesota state average. The county prioritizes school safety with resource officers and security programs. Adult education options include technical colleges in nearby areas. Educational programs emphasize STEM and vocational training, ensuring diverse student support and future readiness.

Sherburne County, MN, has an employment rate of approximately 66%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (13.6%), Manufacturing (12.4%), and Retail Trade (11.7%). Top occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (13.8%), Sales (10.3%), and Production (9.5%). Most residents (over 85%) commute by car, with a mean travel time of 31.3 minutes. While many work within the county, a significant portion commutes to Hennepin and Anoka counties for employment. The labor force participation rate stands around 72%, reflecting a strong local workforce engagement.

Sherburne County, MN, has a homeownership rate of about 82%, with median home values around $325,000 as of 2023. Rentals are less common, median rents averaging $1,350/month. The housing market has seen steady growth, with values rising roughly 5% annually in recent years. Most homes are single-family houses, with some townhomes and apartments in larger towns like Elk River and Big Lake. Property taxes average 1.13% of assessed value. Neighborhoods vary from suburban developments in Zimmerman and Becker to more rural, spacious lots in outlying areas.