Mitchell County Public RecordsIowa

Mitchell County, IA, is known for its low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 32 crimes, including 2 violent crimes and 30 property crimes, with a crime rate of approximately 4.2 per 1,000 residents. The local sheriff’s office regularly updates crime statistics and encourages community reporting, supporting transparency and public safety. Overall, residents experience a high sense of safety, with consistent law enforcement presence and community policing initiatives further reducing crime risk in the area.

Mitchell County, IA, hosts 8 public schools, including Osage High School, with a graduation rate of 93%. About 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 20% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores rank above the state average. School safety is a priority, with all schools implementing security protocols. Educational programs include advanced placement, STEM, and vocational training. Adult education and continuing education opportunities are available through NIACC. Overall, Mitchell County schools provide quality education in a safe environment, fostering both academic and career readiness.

As of 2022, Mitchell County, IA had an employment rate of approximately 65.8%. Major industries include manufacturing (23.5%), health care & social assistance (15.2%), and retail trade (10.9%). The most common occupation types are production (19.1%), management (13.6%), and office/administrative support (12.5%). About 74% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 17 minutes; 72% work within the county, while the rest commute mainly to Cerro Gordo or Worth counties.

Mitchell County, IA, has a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with median home values around $140,000 as of 2023. The rental vacancy rate is nearly 7%, and median gross rent stands at about $780/month. Single-family homes dominate, with some duplexes and apartment complexes in towns like Osage and St. Ansgar. Neighborhoods are largely quiet and residential. Property values have risen modestly, by about 4% year-over-year. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.4%, translating to an annual tax bill of about $1,960 for a median-priced home.

As of 2024, Mitchell County, IA has approximately 7,000 registered voters, with about 45% Republican, 25% Democrat, and 30% No Party. The county organizes primary, general, and special elections, with key polling locations including the Osage Public Safety Building and St. Ansgar American Legion. In the 2020 presidential race, Republicans received 68% of the vote. Issues such as rural infrastructure and property taxes are common. Elections are administered by the Mitchell County Auditor’s Office. Voter turnout typically averages around 70% in general elections, reflecting active civic participation.

As of 2023, Mitchell County, Iowa has a population of approximately 10,574 residents. The median age is around 44 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 50.3% of the population is male and 49.7% female. The county is predominantly White (over 96%), with small minorities including Hispanic or Latino (about 2%), and less than 1% each of African American, Asian, and other races or mixed backgrounds. These figures highlight the county’s limited racial and ethnic diversity and an aging population.