Polk County, Minnesota, located in the northwestern part of the state, is known for its diverse landscapes, including fertile farmlands and numerous lakes. The county seat is Crookston, which serves as a regional cultural and economic hub. Agriculture, especially the cultivation of sugar beets and other crops, plays a significant role in the local economy. The county offers various outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing, hunting, and hiking, thanks to its natural features. Polk County is characterized by its close-knit communities and annual events that celebrate its agricultural heritage and local culture.
People & Demographics
Polk County, MN, has a population of approximately 31,600. The racial composition is predominantly White at about 92%, with Native American, Hispanic, African American, Asian, and other races making up the rest. The median age is around 39 years. Households in the county number approximately 13,000, with a median household income of about $56,000. Educational attainment shows that around 90% of residents over 25 have a high school diploma, and about 23% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The county has a balanced gender distribution, with males and females each comprising roughly 50% of the population.
Polk County Public Records
To obtain public records in Polk County, MN, you can visit the Polk County Recorder's Office or their official website. Records typically include property records, marriage licenses, and birth and death certificates. For court records, contact the Polk County Court Administrator. Requests can be made in person, by mail, or online through Minnesota's statewide portal. Some records might require a fee or proof of identity. For additional guidance, contacting the respective office directly can provide specific instructions and requirements.
Housing in Polk County
As of the latest data, Polk County, MN, has a median home price of approximately $225,000. The area experiences moderate housing demand with an average time on market of about 40 days. The county's housing stock primarily consists of single-family homes, with an average size of 1,500 to 2,000 square feet. Rental prices average around $950 per month for a two-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is approximately 70%, reflecting a stable housing market. Note that these figures can vary based on more specific locations within the county and current market conditions.
How Polk County Votes
Polk County, MN, participated in the November 2022 elections, which included federal, state, and local races. In the U.S. House of Representatives District 7 race, Republican Michelle Fischbach successfully defended her seat. At the state level, various Minnesota House and Senate districts covering Polk County had contested elections. The county also voted on local offices, such as city council and school board members.
For most county positions, the elections featured nonpartisan races. Voter turnout and specific numerical results can vary, but typically, Polk County's voter participation reflects strong civic engagement, often aligning with state averages. In 2022, the overall voter turnout in Minnesota was approximately 61%.
For detailed results including numerical votes, refer to the Polk County Auditor's official website or the Minnesota Secretary of State's election results page. These sources provide comprehensive data on each candidate, votes received, and percentage outcomes.
Income & Poverty
As of the latest available data, the average household income in Polk County, Minnesota, is approximately $60,000. This figure is somewhat below the national average, which is around $70,000, and also falls short of the Minnesota state average of approximately $75,000. The economic landscape in Polk County can be attributed to a mix of agricultural and small-scale industrial activities, which tend to offer lower average wages compared to more urbanized and technologically advanced areas of the state and nation.
Income Comparisons
Location | Average Household Income |
---|---|
Polk County, MN | $60,000 |
Minnesota State | $75,000 |
National | $70,000 |
These figures are estimates and may vary depending on the source and year of the data. It's important to consider economic trends and developments that might influence income levels over time.
Polk County Crime Rates
As of the most recent data, Polk County, MN reports a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. The area maintains strong community policing and proactive measures to ensure public safety. Here’s a summary of crime statistics for Polk County:
Crime Type | Incidents per 100,000 People |
---|---|
Violent Crime | 120 |
Property Crime | 880 |
Burglary | 150 |
Larceny-Theft | 610 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 120 |
The violent crime rate includes offenses such as assault and robbery, which are lower than the state average. Property crimes, primarily larceny and burglary, make up the majority of reported incidents. Community engagement and law enforcement efforts continue to focus on reducing these numbers further through various prevention programs and collaboration with local residents.
Useful Links
Table of Contents
Other Counties
- Aitkin
- Anoka
- Becker
- Beltrami
- Benton
- Big Stone
- Blue Earth
- Brown
- Carlton
- Carver
- Cass
- Chippewa
- Chisago
- Clay
- Clearwater
- Cook
- Cottonwood
- Crow Wing
- Dakota
- Dodge
- Douglas
- Faribault
- Fillmore
- Freeborn
- Goodhue
- Grant
- Hennepin
- Houston
- Hubbard
- Isanti
- Itasca
- Jackson
- Kanabec
- Kandiyohi
- Kittson
- Koochiching
- Lac Qui Parle
- Lake
- Lake Of The Woods
- Le Sueur
- Lincoln
- Lyon
- Mahnomen
- Marshall
- Martin
- Mcleod
- Meeker
- Mille Lacs
- Morrison
- Mower
- Murray
- Nicollet
- Nobles
- Norman
- Olmsted
- Otter Tail
- Pennington
- Pine
- Pipestone
- Pope
- Ramsey
- Red Lake
- Redwood
- Renville
- Rice
- Rock
- Roseau
- Saint Louis
- Scott
- Sherburne
- Sibley
- Stearns
- Steele
- Stevens
- Swift
- Todd
- Traverse
- Wabasha
- Wadena
- Waseca
- Washington
- Watonwan
- Wilkin
- Winona
- Wright
- Yellow Medicine