Pembina County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Pembina County, ND, had a population of 6,844. The median age is approximately 46.2 years, with 49% male and 51% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (92.5%), with Native Americans (2.7%), Asians (0.5%), African Americans (0.3%), and individuals of two or more races (3.6%). Hispanic or Latino residents make up 2.5% of the population.

Pembina County Elections

Pembina County, ND, had 4,021 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with 2020 presidential results showing 72% voting Republican and 25% Democratic. Polling locations include sites in Cavalier, Walhalla, and Drayton. Issues such as agriculture policy and rural healthcare are prominent. The county auditor administers elections, ensuring compliance with state law. Major parties are Republican and Democratic-NPL. In the 2022 general election, turnout was 59%. Early voting and absentee ballots are also available for residents.

Pembina County Housing

Pembina County, ND, has a homeownership rate of around 77%, with a median home value of about $118,000 and typical rents near $650. The housing market remains stable, with modest recent appreciation under 2% annually. Most homes are single-family, though some duplexes and small apartments exist, especially in towns like Cavalier and Pembina. Neighborhoods are quiet and rural or small-town in nature. Property taxes average 1.15% of assessed value, meaning an owner of a $120,000 home pays roughly $1,380 per year in taxes. Rentals are limited, with more inventory in larger communities.

Employment in Pembina County

Pembina County, North Dakota, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.5% in 2023. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (19%), health care and social assistance (17%), and retail trade (12%). Common occupation types are production (15%), office and administrative support (14%), and management roles (12%). About 76% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 18 minutes, primarily traveling within the county or to Grand Forks. Local employment is concentrated in cities like Cavalier and Walhalla, with a majority (over 80%) working within Pembina County.

Education in Pembina County

Pembina County, ND, has 7 public schools, including a few high schools such as Cavalier High. About 91% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 18% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average math and reading proficiency scores are around 45–50%. School safety is rated above the state average, and programs focus on STEM, agriculture, and vocational training. Adult education opportunities include GED prep and workforce skills classes, supported by local partnerships.

Pembina County Crime & Safety

Pembina County, ND, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to the North Dakota Uniform Crime Report, in 2022, the county reported 37 total offenses, including 7 property crimes and 1 violent crime. The overall crime rate per 1,000 residents stood at approximately 4.3, significantly lower than the U.S. average of 22. Reporting and public safety are managed by the Pembina County Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing community policing and preventative measures. Residents benefit from communication channels for prompt incident reporting and law enforcement response, contributing to a strong sense of safety.