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Seward County

county

Seward County, Nebraska, situated in the southeastern part of the state, is characterized by its gently rolling hills and fertile agricultural land. As of 2020, the population was 17,609, with a more recent estimate of 18,015 in 2026. The county seat is Seward, which proudly holds the title of "Nebraska's Fourth of July City" and "National Fourth of July City – Small Town U.S.A.". Seward County is part of the Lincoln, NE Metropolitan Statistical Area, blending rural charm with access to urban amenities. Agriculture is a cornerstone of Seward County's economy, with much of the land dedicated to farming, including center pivot irrigation. Key industries include manufacturing, education, and healthcare. Major employers contribute to a diverse economic base, supporting the local workforce. The county also benefits from its location along Interstate 80 and Highways 34 and 15, facilitating transportation and commerce. Seward County offers a blend of historical significance, community spirit, and outdoor recreational opportunities. From its well-regarded education system to its various parks, lakes, and trails, the county provides a high quality of life for its residents. The county's history is reflected in landmarks like the Seward County Courthouse and the Seward County Historical Society Museum.

Seward County, Nebraska

Overview
Classification
County
FIPS Code
31159
Country
United States
County
Seward County
Geography
Region
Southeast Nebraska
Elevation
1,598 ft
Total Area
576 sq mi
Land Area
571 sq mi
Water Area
4.5 sq mi
Latitude
40.9064
Longitude
-97.0988
Climate
The county has a temperate climate with distinct seasons.
Notable Features
Big Blue River · Low rolling hills
Neighboring Areas
Butler County · Fillmore County · Lancaster County · Polk County · Saline County · York County
Demographics
Population (2020)
17,609
Est. Population (2026)
18,015
Median Age
37.9
Median Income
$81,122
Poverty Rate
7.6%
Owner-Occupied
74.4%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of the county was 94.1% White, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% Asian, 0.0% Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 1.0% from some other race, and 3.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race comprised 2.8% of the population.
Governance
Government Type
County
Governing Body
County Board
Economy
Unemployment Rate
2.3% March 2025
Economic Profile
Agriculture · Diverse economy of many sizes of companies and types of industries
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Educational Services · Health Care & Social Assistance
Major Employers
Hughes Brothers · Cattle National Bank and Trust Co. · Farmers and Merchants Bank · Norris Public Power District · Laminated Wood Systems Inc. · Progressive Sheet Metal · Department of Health and Human Services · Breeza Industrial · Briggs Feedyard Inc. · WestRock Company · Seward County Independent and Milford Times · Fehlhafer's Inc. · First Bank of Utica · Midwest Feeding Company · Tomes Industries Inc. · Volzke Corporation
Education
Students
1,471
Student-Teacher Ratio
14:1
School Districts
Centennial Public Schools · Milford Public Schools · Seward Public Schools
Colleges & Universities
Concordia University-Nebraska · Southeast Community College – Milford Campus · St. Gregory the Great Seminary
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate 80 · Highway 34 · Highway 15
Utilities
Electricity Providers: City of Seward, Nebraska PPD, Norris PPD, Perennial PPD · Access to broadband (100 Mbps via fiber or cable modem): 74.0% (2021)
Major Facilities
Seward County Courthouse · Hospitals
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Smith Creek Wildlife Recreation Area · Meadowlark Lake · Plum Creek Trail and Garden Area
Parks & Trails
City Park · Plum Creek Trail
History
Founded
1855
Incorporated
1870
Named After
William H. Seward, Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson
Historical Significance
Seward County's history reflects the agricultural development and community spirit of the American Midwest.
Key Events
Originally named Greene County · Renamed Seward County in 1862 · County seat established in 1867