Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Dunn County, WI, had a population of 45,440. The median age was 34.5 years, with 50.6% male and 49.4% female residents. The racial makeup was predominantly White (92.2%), with smaller percentages of Asian (2.2%), Black or African American (1.0%), Native American (0.5%), and Hispanic or Latino (2.2%). Other races and those identifying with two or more races made up the remainder.

Elections

Dunn County, WI, had approximately 30,000 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts elections for local, state, and federal offices, including school referenda. In the 2020 presidential election, about 67% voter turnout was recorded, with 51% voting Republican and 47% Democrat. There are 23 polling locations managed by the Dunn County Clerk. Key local issues include infrastructure and education. Election administration emphasizes accuracy and accessibility. Both the Democratic and Republican parties maintain active local chapters, frequently organizing voter outreach events.

Education, Employment and Housing

Dunn County, WI, serves around 4,500 K-12 students across 17 public schools, with a high school graduation rate of approximately 93%. About 29% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The University of Wisconsin–Stout, located in Menomonie, offers numerous degree and adult education programs. Average standardized test scores in schools rank near the state mean. School safety initiatives and extracurricular educational programs are in place, contributing to the area’s positive learning environment.

As of 2022, Dunn County, WI had an employment rate of approximately 60%, with around 24,000 people employed. Leading industries include education and healthcare (21%), manufacturing (20%), and retail trade (11%). The most common occupations are management, sales, and office support. About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes. Roughly 60% of residents work within the county, while others commute mainly to Eau Claire and Chippewa counties for employment.

Dunn County, WI has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $210,000 in 2023. Median rents are approximately $850 per month. The housing market has seen steady appreciation, with values rising nearly 6% year-over-year. Residences include single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes, predominantly in neighborhoods like Menomonie and Elk Mound. Property tax rates average 1.73%, meaning taxes on a $210,000 home are roughly $3,630 annually. The county offers a blend of rural and small-town living, attracting families and students from nearby UW-Stout.

County Crime & Safety

Dunn County, WI, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 220 total crime incidents, including 24 violent crimes (such as assault and robbery) and 196 property crimes (primarily theft and burglary). The crime rate stands at about 12.5 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement encourages community involvement and transparency, regularly updating the public through annual crime reports. Overall, Dunn County is considered a safe place to live, with proactive policing and a strong focus on crime prevention and public safety.