Pennington County

Pennington County, located in northwestern Minnesota, is known for its agriculture-driven economy, with expansive farmlands and a strong focus on crops like wheat and soybeans. The county seat, Thief River Falls, serves as the economic and cultural hub, housing industries such as Arctic Cat and Digi-Key Electronics. The Red Lake River offers recreational opportunities like fishing and canoeing. Rich in Scandinavian heritage, the area hosts cultural festivals and events. With a close-knit community, Pennington County combines a rural lifestyle with essential services, education, and health care, maintaining a balanced connection between tradition and modern amenities.

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Pennington County, Minnesota, had a population of approximately 13,992 people. The racial composition was predominantly White at 88.5%, followed by Native American at 5.7%, and Hispanic or Latino at 2.8%. The county had about 5,870 households, with an average household size of 2.35. The median age was 42.9 years. Economically, the median household income was approximately $53,929, with around 10.4% of the population living below the poverty line. The county's seat, Thief River Falls, is the largest city and a key economic hub.

To access public records in Pennington County, MN, visit the county's official website or contact the County Recorder’s Office. Records include property deeds, marriage licenses, court documents, and vital records like birth and death certificates. Many records may be available online, but some might require in-person visits or formal requests. Check specific department links for forms, fees, and procedures. For court records, contact the Pennington County Court Administration. Always have identification and any necessary details ready to expedite the process.

As of the latest data, Pennington County, MN has a median home price of approximately $150,000 to $180,000. The housing market features a mix of single-family homes and small apartment buildings. The homeownership rate is around 75%, indicating a preference for owning rather than renting. Rental prices average about $700 to $900 per month for standard accommodations. The county has seen modest appreciation rates, reflecting steady demand in the region. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.1% of assessed value. Overall, the housing market in Pennington County offers affordable options with a stable growth trend.

In the 2022 elections for Pennington County, Minnesota, several key positions were contested.

For the U.S. House of Representatives District 7, Republican incumbent Michelle Fischbach won against her Democratic opponent Jill Abahsain.

In local races, the County Commissioner seats saw competitive races. In District 1, the seat was won by Neil Peterson. District 3 saw a victory for Bruce Lawrence. District 5 was won by David Sorenson.

These elections also included various local propositions and judicial races, but results varied based on voter turnout and specific local interest issues. Voter turnout in the county was consistent with state averages for midterm elections, reflecting active civic engagement in Pennington County. Complete numerical results are available through the county's official election office or the Minnesota Secretary of State's website.

As of the latest available data, Pennington County, MN, has an average household income of approximately $58,000. This figure is below both the national and Minnesota state averages. For comparison, the national average household income stands at about $68,700, while the Minnesota state average is approximately $75,600. These disparities highlight the economic challenges faced by residents in Pennington County compared to broader averages.

Here's a simple statistics table for clarity:

The differences in average household income reflect various factors including employment opportunities, cost of living, and local economic development in Pennington County relative to larger urban centers in Minnesota and the overall United States.

As of the latest available data, Pennington County, Minnesota, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The overall crime rate is approximately 1,500 per 100,000 residents annually. Here is a breakdown of crime statistics by type:

These figures may vary slightly year to year, but they provide a general picture of crime in Pennington County. The area is considered safer than many other parts of the United States, with community efforts focused on maintaining low crime rates.