County Demographics: Population Trends and Ethnic Composition

Analyzing the demographic evolution of a region provides critical insights into its social and economic trajectory. From the mid-19th century to recent estimates, this county has experienced fluctuating growth patterns, shifting from steady expansion to periods of decline and stabilization. Understanding these trends helps paint a clear picture of the community's current identity and future needs.

Population Growth and Historical Trends

The county's population has seen significant shifts over the last 175 years. Starting at 10,655 residents in 1850, the population grew steadily through the late 19th century, peaking locally around 1900 with 17,152 residents. However, the early 20th century brought a period of decline, with the population dipping to 14,101 by 1920.

A dramatic surge occurred between 1970 and 1980, where the population jumped from 19,082 to 26,433—a growth rate of 38.5%. The population remained relatively stable around 28,000 residents from 1990 through 2010. More recently, the 2020 census recorded a decrease to 26,069, and estimates for 2025 suggest a further slight decline to 25,790.

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Key Facts

Current Population: 26,069 (as of the 2020 Census).
Median Age: 45.4 years.
Rural Dominance: 95.3% of residents live in rural areas.
Housing: 75.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied.
Historical Peak: The population reached its highest recorded census level of 28,276 in 2010.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The county has historically been predominantly White, though diversity has gradually increased over the decades. In 1980, the Non-Hispanic White population stood at 99.11%. By 2020, this figure shifted to 92.61% (White alone, Non-Hispanic), while the broader racial makeup recorded 93.5% White.

Other demographic groups have seen modest growth. The Hispanic or Latino population (of any race) grew from 0.38% in 1980 to 2.23% in 2020. Similarly, the Black or African American population increased from 0.27% in 1980 to 0.82% in 2020. Multiracial residents also represent a growing segment, accounting for 4.4% of the population in 2020.

Ancestry Data

Based on the 2000 census, the most prominent ancestral roots in the county include German (20.3%), Irish (12.9%), English (11.9%), Polish (11.6%), American (9.6%), and Italian (8.1%).

Household and Housing Statistics

The social structure of the county is characterized by a high percentage of rural living and a mix of household types. As of 2020, there were 10,698 households. Approximately 49.0% were married-couple households, while 23.1% were headed by a female householder with no spouse or partner present, and 19.3% were headed by a male householder with no spouse or partner present.

Housing availability remains a key metric, with 12,819 total housing units. The vacancy rate stands at 16.5%, with a notable difference between homeowner vacancy (1.4%) and rental vacancy (7.7%).

Population and Demographic Summary (Selected Years)
Census Year	Total Population	% Change	Median Age	Rural %
1850	10,655	—	N/A	N/A
1900	17,152	7.9%	N/A	N/A
1980	26,433	38.5%	N/A	N/A
2000	28,080	0.0%	38.0	N/A
2020	26,069	-7.8%	45.4	95.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current population trend of the county?

After peaking in 2010 at 28,276 residents, the population has been declining, falling to 26,069 in 2020 and is estimated to reach 25,790 by 2025.

How rural is the county?

The county is overwhelmingly rural, with 95.3% of its residents living in rural areas and only 4.7% residing in urban areas.

What is the age distribution of the residents?

As of 2020, the median age is 45.4 years. Approximately 19.2% of the population is under 18, and 21.8% are 65 years of age or older.

What are the primary ancestral backgrounds in the region?

According to 2000 data, the most common ancestries are German, Irish, English, Polish, American, and Italian.

What is the housing tenure in the county?

The majority of occupied homes are owner-occupied at 75.9%, while 24.1% are renter-occupied.