Stearns County, located in central Minnesota, is known for its rich agricultural heritage and vibrant communities. The county seat is St. Cloud, a regional hub for education, healthcare, and commerce. Stearns is characterized by its diverse landscape, featuring lakes, rivers, and parks, offering abundant recreational opportunities. It hosts several higher education institutions, including St. Cloud State University and the College of Saint Benedict. The county's economy is a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, with a strong emphasis on dairy farming. Stearns County also celebrates cultural diversity, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year.

People & Demographics

Stearns County, MN, has a population of approximately 161,075. The racial composition is predominantly White (around 86%), with smaller percentages of Black or African American (about 4%), Asian (approximately 3%), and Hispanic or Latino (nearly 4%). The county has a median age of 35 years. About 24% of the population is under 18, and 15% is 65 or older. The median household income is roughly $63,000, with a poverty rate of around 11%. Educational attainment shows about 93% of residents have a high school diploma or higher, and 26% hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Stearns County Public Records

To obtain public records in Stearns County, MN, you can visit the Stearns County Government Center in person or access their official website. Records may include property records, court records, marriage licenses, and more. You can request documents via mail, online forms, or directly at the relevant department such as the Recorder’s Office or Court Administration. Some records might be available for free, while others require a fee. Ensure you have specific information handy to facilitate the search process, and note that some records may have access restrictions due to privacy laws.

Housing in Stearns County

As of the latest data, Stearns County, MN, has a median home value of approximately $235,000. The real estate market has seen a moderate appreciation rate of about 4% over the past year. The county's housing inventory includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, with a homeownership rate of around 70%. Rental properties have an average monthly rent of approximately $1,200. The area experiences a balanced market, with both buyers and sellers having favorable conditions. Affordability and diverse housing options continue to attract residents to this region.

How Stearns County Votes

Stearns County, Minnesota, participates in local, state, and federal elections. As of the latest data, elections are held for various positions such as county commissioners, sheriff, and other local offices, alongside state and federal elections. Key past candidates have included individuals running for the Minnesota State Legislature and U.S. Congress, representing both major parties. Voter turnout typically reflects state averages, with varied participation in midterm and presidential election years. For specific numerical values and candidate details, you should check the Stearns County official website or the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website, which provide comprehensive and up-to-date election information, including past results and future election dates. Exact numbers and candidate lists change with each election cycle, influenced by factors like district redistricting and political primaries.

Income & Poverty

As of the most recent data, the average household income in Stearns County, Minnesota, is approximately $70,000. This figure compares to the national average household income of around $68,700, placing Stearns County slightly above the national average. In comparison, the state average for Minnesota is higher, at approximately $74,600, indicating that Stearns County's average income is below the state average.

Here's a statistics table for reference:

Location Average Household Income
Stearns County, MN $70,000
Minnesota (State) $74,600
United States $68,700

This data highlights Stearns County's relatively close alignment with national income levels, while still falling short of the broader state average. Note that economic variations can exist within the county and are influenced by factors such as employment sectors, educational levels, and cost of living.

Stearns County Crime Rates

As of the latest available data, Stearns County, Minnesota, has a varied crime profile. The crime rate in Stearns County is reported through categories such as violent and property crimes. In recent years, the total crime rate has seen fluctuations, with efforts focused on reducing these numbers through enhanced community policing and prevention programs.

For a more detailed view, here is a simplified statistics table summarizing the types of crimes:

Type of Crime Number of Incidents (per 100,000 residents)
Violent Crimes 250
- Homicide 2
- Rape 30
- Robbery 28
- Aggravated Assault 190
Property Crimes 1,400
- Burglary 200
- Larceny-Theft 1,100
- Motor Vehicle Theft 100

Community and law enforcement agencies continue to work collaboratively to address and reduce crime rates in Stearns County.

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