Watonwan County Public RecordsMinnesota

As of the 2020 Census, Watonwan County, MN had a population of 11,253. The median age was 39.7 years. About 50.3% were male and 49.7% female. Racially, the population was 79.3% White, 1.4% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, 0.6% Native American, and 14.6% from other races; 23% identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Watonwan County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. As of 2022, the county reported a total of 124 criminal offenses, including 16 violent crimes and 108 property crimes. The violent crime rate stands at about 1.92 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is approximately 13 per 1,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes community engagement and prompt reporting, contributing to effective crime-solving rates. Efforts in prevention and public safety education have kept overall crime trends stable in recent years, fostering a safe environment for residents.

Watonwan County, MN, has about 6,500 registered voters out of a population of roughly 10,900. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with 8 polling locations across cities like St. James, Madelia, and Butterfield. In the 2022 gubernatorial election, Republican candidates received 62% of the vote, while Democrats garnered 35%. Election issues typically include agricultural policy, education funding, and rural healthcare. The County Auditor-Treasurer manages elections, ensuring compliance with state law. Both Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) and Republican parties actively participate in local campaigns and voter outreach.

Watonwan County, MN, has 7 public schools serving approximately 1,700 students, with a graduation rate of around 92%. About 80% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 13% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average student-teacher ratio is 15:1, and standardized test scores are near state averages. The county emphasizes school safety, participating in Safe Schools initiatives, and offers vocational, college prep, and adult education programs through local community centers and partnerships.

As of 2022, Watonwan County, MN, has an employment rate of approximately 63.1%. Major industries include manufacturing (21.2%), health care & social assistance (16.2%), and retail trade (10.7%). Leading occupations are production (14.8%), office/administrative support (12.6%), and management (9.5%). About 72% of residents commute by car, with an average one-way travel time of 16.6 minutes; 80% work within the county, while 20% commute to neighboring areas such as Blue Earth County and Martin County.

Watonwan County, MN has a homeownership rate of approximately 74%, with median home values around $132,000 in 2023. Rental opportunities are more limited, with a median gross rent of about $730/month. Most housing consists of single-family homes, though there are some small multi-family units in towns like St. James. Property values have seen modest annual increases of 2–4%. Key neighborhoods include Butterfield and Madelia. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.1%, resulting in typical annual taxes of $1,450 for a median-priced home.