Walsh Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of 2023, Walsh County, ND has a population of approximately 10,400. The median age is around 46 years, with 20% under 18 and 22% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is roughly 51% male and 49% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (87%), with Hispanic or Latino (9%), Native American (2%), and other races (2%).

Walsh County, ND, had 7,312 registered voters as of 2022. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, overseen by the County Auditor’s office. In the 2020 Presidential Election, 66% voted Republican and 32% Democrat. Major polling locations include Park River City Hall and Grafton Armory. Key issues often involve agriculture, property taxes, and local infrastructure. The county has 13 voting precincts, and both Democratic-NPL and Republican parties maintain active presence. Early voting and absentee ballots are available for all county residents.

Walsh County, ND, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $112,000. Median monthly rent is about $650. The housing market is stable, showing slight appreciation in recent years. Single-family homes dominate, but small apartments and duplexes are available, especially in Grafton and Park River neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.2% of assessed value, or roughly $1,340 annually for a median-valued home. Neighborhoods are generally quiet and residential, offering affordable options for both buyers and renters.

As of 2022, Walsh County, ND, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.2%. The largest employment sectors are agriculture (23%), manufacturing (19%), and health care (14%). Common occupations include production, farming, and office support roles. About 83% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 17 minutes. Major employment locations include Grafton, Park River, and Minto. Only 2.5% work from home, reflecting the county’s rural character and reliance on in-person industries.

Walsh County, ND, has around 9 public schools, including Park River Area High School and Grafton High School, with graduation rates near 92%. Approximately 21% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools generally score above the state average for academic performance and school safety, with minimal incidents reported annually. Adult education is supported through regional programs and North Valley Career & Technology Center. Specialized educational offerings include STEM and college prep courses, ensuring broad academic support for the region’s nearly 2,000 K-12 students.

Walsh County, ND, reports a lower-than-average crime rate compared to national figures. According to the FBI's 2022 Uniform Crime Reporting, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 7.5 per 1,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing, leading to a high clearance rate for reported crimes. Residents generally report feeling safe, with annual law enforcement reports indicating declining trends in both burglaries and thefts over the past five years. Crime is primarily addressed through proactive patrols and neighborhood outreach programs.