Waseca County Public RecordsMinnesota

Waseca County, MN, has 11 public schools, including Waseca High School, serving around 2,800 students. About 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while 21% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school scores are near the state median, with Waseca High School earning a 6/10 on GreatSchools. The county provides adult education initiatives and career/technical programs. School safety measures include security training and mental health support. Advanced placement and STEM courses are offered, supporting college and career readiness.

As of 2022, Waseca County, MN, had an employment rate of approximately 63%. Key industries include manufacturing (25%), health care/social assistance (13%), and retail trade (10%). Top occupations are production (16%), office/administrative support (11%), and management (10%). About 82% of employed residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 20 minutes. Nearly 32% work within the county, while the rest commute to nearby areas, predominantly Owatonna and Mankato.

Waseca County, MN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with a median home value of around $185,000 as of 2023. Median monthly rent is about $850. The housing market has seen modest appreciation, roughly 3% annually. Predominant housing types are single-family homes, with some townhomes and apartments. Principal neighborhoods include Waseca city, Janesville, and New Richland. Property taxes average 1.1% of a property's assessed value, aligning with Minnesota's statewide rates. The area offers affordable housing options and a mix of established and developing neighborhoods.

Waseca County, MN, reports a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county recorded 142 total crimes, comprising 21 violent crimes and 121 property crimes, according to Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension data. The violent crime rate stood at 1.8 per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate was about 10.3 per 1,000. The county encourages prompt crime reporting through local law enforcement and maintains various community safety initiatives to ensure public security. Overall, Waseca County is considered a safe community with proactive crime prevention measures.

Waseca County, MN, had approximately 12,000 registered voters for the 2022 general election. Elections include local, state, and federal offices, with major parties being DFL and Republican. In 2020, presidential results were 62% Republican, 35% DFL. Polling locations are in 9 precincts, including Waseca, Janesville, and New Richland. The county auditor's office administers elections. Key issues include rural development and agriculture. Voting methods include early, absentee, and in-person on Election Day.

As of 2022, Waseca County, MN, has a population of approximately 18,400. The median age is 41 years, with about 51% male and 49% female residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (89%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (7%), Black or African American (2%), and Asian (1%). Other races make up the remaining 1%.