Steele Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Steele County, ND had a population of approximately 1,835. The median age was 48.5 years, reflecting an older population. About 51% were male and 49% female. The county was predominantly White (over 97%), with very small percentages of Native American (0.8%), Asian (<0.5%), and Hispanic/Latino (1.3%) residents. African Americans and other racial groups made up less than 1% combined.

Steele County, ND, with around 1,700 residents, had approximately 1,150 registered voters in 2022. Administered by the County Auditor’s office, county elections include local, state, and federal races, with Republicans dominating recent results—over 70% voted GOP in the 2020 presidential election. Polling is primarily at Finley Community Center, with early voting and absentee options available. Key local issues include agriculture policy and rural services. The county’s election administration ensures compliance with North Dakota’s no-party voter registration and supports two major parties, though Republicans outnumber Democrats in most contests.

Steele County, ND, has a homeownership rate of about 80%, with median home values around $110,000 in 2023. Rental options are limited, with median gross rent at roughly $550 per month. Most housing consists of single-family homes, and the county features small, close-knit communities like Finley and Hope. Housing market trends are stable, with slight annual appreciation. Property taxes average 1.3% of home value, resulting in typical bills of $1,400–$1,600 per year. The county’s affordability and rural character appeal to families and retirees.

Steele County, ND, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.2% in 2023. Leading employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (about 26%), followed by educational services and health care (20%), and retail trade (13%). Most jobs are in management, business, science, and arts occupations (29%), with 24% in natural resources, construction, and maintenance. About 77% of workers commute alone by car, with a median travel time of 19 minutes. The majority of employed residents work within the county or commute to neighboring counties such as Grand Forks and Cass.

Steele County, ND, has one public school district—Finley-Sharon—which includes an elementary and a high school, serving about 150 students. High school graduation rates hover around 94%, though only about 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With student-teacher ratios near 8:1, individualized attention is emphasized. State testing scores are at or slightly below the North Dakota average. The county offers limited adult education programs, typically through nearby community colleges. School safety incidents are rare, and programs include STEM and career and technical education, though extracurricular variety is limited due to smaller enrollment.

Steele County, ND, is known for its low crime rates compared to state and national averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported 0 violent crimes and fewer than 10 property crimes in 2022. With a population of under 2,000, the crime rate stands at less than 5 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement actively promotes community safety, and crime incidents are promptly reported and addressed. Overall, Steele County is considered a safe rural area with minimal criminal activity.