Golden Valley Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Golden Valley County, North Dakota, had a population of 1,736. The median age was 48.1 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 51% of residents were male and 49% female. The county was predominantly White (95.2%), with small minority populations including Hispanic or Latino (1.7%), Native American (1.0%), and other races comprising the remainder.

Golden Valley County, ND, has around 1,700 residents, with about 1,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county holds federal, state, and local elections, typically at one polling location in Beach, the county seat. In the 2020 presidential election, over 80% voted Republican, reflecting a strong conservative trend. Voter turnout regularly exceeds 60%. Local issues often involve agriculture, property taxes, and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Golden Valley County Auditor. Major parties represented are Republican and Democratic-NPL, with Republicans dominating elected offices.

Golden Valley County, ND, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with median home values around $119,000 and median gross rents near $651 (2022 ACS). The housing stock is primarily single-family homes, with some manufactured housing and limited multifamily options, mostly in towns like Beach. Property values have remained relatively stable, with modest growth compared to national averages. Neighborhoods are quiet, rural, and close-knit. Property tax rates are moderate, averaging roughly 1.1% of assessed value. Most residents own their homes, reflecting the county’s rural character and affordability.

As of 2022, Golden Valley County, ND, had an employment rate of approximately 61% among its working-age population. Major industries include agriculture (26%), education and health services (18%), and retail trade (10%). Occupations are predominantly in management (24%), office and administrative support (16%), and farming (12%). The median commute time is 14 minutes, with 82% driving alone to work and less than 1% using public transportation. Most residents work within the county, though about 15% commute to neighboring areas such as Billings County for employment.

Golden Valley County, North Dakota, has one public school district: Beach Public School District, which includes Beach High School. The county serves around 200 students in K-12, with a graduation rate of approximately 92%. About 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is generally strong, with no significant incidents reported recently. Academic achievement scores are close to the state average, and students benefit from small class sizes and adult education programs focused on general GED and vocational skills. Extracurricular and vocational-technical programs supplement the core curriculum.

Golden Valley County, ND, maintains a notably low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported fewer than 10 total crimes in 2022, with violent crimes being extremely rare—only 1 reported incident that year. Property crimes remain low as well, at approximately 5 cases annually. Law enforcement agencies emphasize community policing and regularly update residents. Overall, Golden Valley County’s crime rate is less than 200 incidents per 100,000 people, making it one of North Dakota’s safest regions.