Steele County

Steele County, located in southern Minnesota, was established in 1855 and named after Franklin Steele, a prominent early settler. The county seat is Owatonna, its largest city, known for its historic architecture and vibrant community events. Steele County's economy is driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. Attractions include the Steele County Free Fair, one of the largest in Minnesota, and several parks and trails offering recreational opportunities. The county blends rural charm with accessibility to urban amenities, providing a high quality of life for its residents.

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Steele County, MN, has a population of approximately 37,406. The racial composition is predominantly White (around 85%), with smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino (10%), Asian (1.5%), and African American (1.3%) residents. The county's median age is roughly 39 years. There are about 14,800 households, with an average household size of 2.5 people. Median household income is approximately $60,000, and the poverty rate is about 7.5%. Steele County’s population shows a blend of rural and suburban characteristics, centered around the city of Owatonna.

To obtain Steele County, MN public records, visit the Steele County Government Center or their official website. Public records may include property records, court records, marriage and birth certificates, and meeting minutes. For court records, contact the Steele County Court Administrator. For property records, visit the Recorder’s Office. Requests can often be made online, by mail, or in person. Fees may apply for copies. Ensure you have specific details for efficient processing, such as names, dates, and document types. For vital records, visit the Steele County Public Health or Minnesota Department of Health websites.

As of the latest data, Steele County, Minnesota, has a median home price of approximately $240,000. The county has experienced a modest annual increase in home values of around 5%. The housing market consists primarily of single-family homes, with an average size of 1,800 square feet. The homeownership rate in Steele County is about 75%, with rental properties accounting for 25% of the housing market. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $950 per month. Housing inventory remains relatively stable, with a balanced market between buyers and sellers.

Steele County, MN, conducts elections for various local, state, and federal positions. The County Auditor's Office oversees these elections and provides detailed information on candidates, voting locations, and results. In recent elections, key positions often include county commissioners, school board members, and municipal offices alongside state and federal representatives.

For example, in the 2022 midterm elections, Steele County voters participated in electing officials for the U.S. House of Representatives, state legislative seats, and local offices. Commonly contested roles include positions on the Steele County Board of Commissioners and local city councils.

For specific numerical values, the Secretary of State's website and Steele County's official site provide detailed results, including voter turnout percentages and individual candidate vote counts. The number of registered voters and the turnout rate can vary but often reflects active civic engagement within the county.

As of the latest available data, Steele County, Minnesota, has an estimated median household income of approximately $73,000. This figure is slightly below the Minnesota state median household income, which stands around $81,000, but still above the national median of about $68,700. Steele County's income levels suggest a relatively stable economic environment with income figures aligning closely with regional trends in Minnesota.

These values provide an overview of Steele County's economic standing relative to broader benchmarks at state and federal levels, reflecting its moderate prosperity within the region.

As of the latest data, Steele County, MN, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In recent reports, the overall crime rate is approximately 1,450 per 100,000 residents annually, which is lower than the national average of about 2,580 per 100,000 residents.

Here is a statistics table illustrating types of crimes in Steele County:

The low crime rates reflect Steele County's focus on community safety and law enforcement effectiveness, which contribute to its reputation as a safe place to live and work.