Clay County, Minnesota, located in the western part of the state, is part of the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area. It was established in 1862 and named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman. The county seat is Moorhead, known for its educational institutions like Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College. The county’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, education, and healthcare playing key roles. The Red River of the North borders the county, providing recreational opportunities. Rich in cultural and historical attractions, Clay County offers a blend of urban amenities and rural charm.

People & Demographics

As of the latest data, Clay County, MN has a population of approximately 65,000 people. The racial composition is predominantly White (around 91%), with smaller percentages of Black or African American (2%), Asian (2%), and Native American (1%). Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 3% of the population. The median age is approximately 33 years. Households average around 2.5 people, and the median household income is roughly $60,000. These figures reflect general trends and may vary slightly with new data releases.

Clay County Public Records

To obtain public records from Clay County, MN, visit the County Recorder's Office in person or access their website. Request records such as property records, marriage licenses, birth and death certificates, and court records. Some records may require a formal request or fee. For online access, use the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s website or the county’s online portal if available. Ensure you have necessary details like names, dates, and document types to facilitate your search. Note that certain records may have privacy restrictions and are not publicly accessible.

Housing in Clay County

As of the latest data, Clay County, MN, has a median home value of approximately $240,000. The housing market has seen a modest year-over-year appreciation rate of about 4%. The median rent is around $900 per month. Homeownership in the county is strong, with about 70% of residents owning their homes. The housing stock varies, with a mix of single-family homes and multi-family units. The county's housing market remains relatively competitive, with homes typically staying on the market for an average of 40 days. Note that these figures may change and should be verified for the most current data.

How Clay County Votes

As of the most recent elections, Clay County, Minnesota, participated in the 2022 midterm elections. The county's largest city, Moorhead, saw elections for various local and state offices. In the Minnesota House of Representatives, District 4A includes much of Clay County. In 2022, Heather Keeler (DFL) ran for re-election in this district. Clay County also voted in statewide races, including the gubernatorial race where Tim Walz (DFL) ran for re-election against Republican challenger Scott Jensen.

In 2020, Clay County reported a total of 33,591 votes for the presidential election, with 17,676 (52.6%) voting for the Democratic candidate and 15,210 (45.3%) for the Republican candidate. Local offices such as county commissioners, sheriff, and school board members were also contested. For the most current information, visit the official Clay County elections website or contact the county auditor for recent updates and candidate filings.

Income & Poverty

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Clay County, MN, is approximately $77,000. This figure is slightly below the Minnesota state average income of around $85,000 but is comparable to the national average, which is also approximately $85,000. These figures suggest that while Clay County's incomes are generally in line with national trends, they lag behind the state average. This discrepancy can be attributed to various factors, including the county's economic structure and employment opportunities.

Area Average Household Income
Clay County, MN $77,000
Minnesota (State) $85,000
United States $85,000

This table provides a concise comparison, showcasing that Clay County's incomes, while on par nationally, reflect a slight gap when compared to the broader economic conditions in Minnesota.

Clay County Crime Rates

As of the latest data available, Clay County, MN, typically experiences lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of approximately 1,200 criminal incidents. The most common offenses include property crimes and minor assaults. Violent crime rates remain relatively low.

Here is a simplified table of crime statistics for Clay County:

Type of Crime Number of Incidents (2022)
Burglary 150
Larceny-Theft 600
Motor Vehicle Theft 100
Assault 300
Robbery 30
Rape 20
Murder 2

These statistics reflect efforts by local law enforcement to maintain a safe community environment, with continued focus on crime prevention and community programs.

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