Obrien County Public RecordsIowa

As of 2022, O'Brien County, IA, has a population of about 13,600. The median age is 43.5 years, with 22% under 18 and 22% aged 65 or older. Females comprise 50.2% of the population. Racially, the county is 92% White, 0.8% Black, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 5.7% Hispanic or Latino. Other races and multiracial residents make up about 1%.

O'Brien County, IA, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported just 95 total crimes, including 10 violent crimes (such as assault) and 85 property crimes (theft, burglary, etc.), according to FBI statistics. The crime rate stands at approximately 12.3 per 1,000 residents, significantly below the US average of 22.7. Law enforcement agencies actively encourage community reporting, and most incidents are non-violent. Overall, O’Brien County is considered a safe rural area with consistent public safety efforts.

O’Brien County, IA, offers quality education with 5 public school districts, including South O’Brien and Sheldon, serving over 2,000 K-12 students. High school graduation rates exceed 92%. Approximately 21% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety programs contribute to strong safety scores, and comprehensive educational programs include AP, vocational, and dual-credit courses. The community supports adult education through Northwest Iowa Community College. Average district test scores are above the Iowa state average, reflecting academic excellence and community commitment to lifelong learning.

As of 2022, O'Brien County, Iowa, has an employment rate of approximately 65.2%. Major industries include manufacturing (20.1%), health care and social assistance (16.7%), and retail trade (11.8%). Occupations are mainly production (19%), management/business (18%), and service (16%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 17 minutes. Most residents work within the county, but about 25% commute to nearby counties such as Sioux and Clay for employment opportunities.

Obrien County, IA, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, while 22% of residents rent. The median home value is approximately $130,000, with a median rent of $650 per month. Recent trends show moderate appreciation in property values—around a 3% annual increase. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, with some multi-unit apartments in towns like Sheldon and Hartley. Popular neighborhoods are centered near schools and parks. The average property tax rate is 1.3%, translating to roughly $1,690 per year on median-valued homes. The area boasts affordable, stable housing and a small-town atmosphere.

As of 2024, O’Brien County, IA, has approximately 10,000 registered voters, with Republicans comprising 54%, Democrats 20%, and No Party/Other 26%. The county holds general, primary, city, and school elections; the 2022 general election saw a 63% turnout. Polling locations include centers in Primghar, Sheldon, and Sanborn. Key local issues include rural development and property taxes. Election administration is managed by the County Auditor’s office, ensuring compliance and accessibility. In the 2020 presidential election, the Republican candidate received 71% of county votes, reflecting the county’s strong Republican lean.