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Harrison County

county

Harrison County, Iowa, nestled in the western part of the state, is characterized by its scenic Loess Hills and proximity to the Missouri River. The county, part of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area, had a population of 14,582 in the 2020 census, with estimates around 14,626 in 2024. Its landscape is primarily agricultural, contributing to the rural character and small-town values cherished by its residents. The economy of Harrison County is largely driven by agriculture, particularly corn and soybean farming, alongside livestock production. Key sectors also include healthcare, education, and retail, providing employment for many residents. The county features a mix of small businesses and larger employers within these sectors, supporting the local economy. What makes Harrison County distinctive is its unique geological feature, the Loess Hills, formed by wind-blown silt from glaciers. These hills not only offer stunning landscapes but also provide recreational opportunities and are a significant part of the region's identity. The county also boasts a rich history, with several historical sites and museums that reflect its heritage and pioneer roots.

Harrison County, Iowa

Overview
Classification
County
FIPS Code
19-085
Country
United States
County
Harrison County
Geography
Region
Midwest/Plains
Total Area
702 sq mi
Land Area
697 sq mi
Water Area
4.8 sq mi
Latitude
41.682222
Longitude
-95.824167
Climate
Warm summers and cold winters
Notable Features
Loess Hills · Missouri River · Little Sioux River
Neighboring Areas
Monona County · Crawford County · Shelby County · Pottawattamie County · Washington County, Nebraska · Burt County, Nebraska
Demographics
Population (2020)
14,582
Est. Population (2024)
14,626
Median Age
41.9
Median Income
$77,027
Poverty Rate
4.7%
Owner-Occupied
76.9%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
95.0% White, 2.5% Two or More Races, 2.1% Hispanic
Governance
Government Type
Board of Supervisors
Governing Body
Board of Supervisors
Body Size
3 members
Municipal Services
Secondary roads and bridges · Elections · Recorded documents · Taxation · Financial administration
Economy
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
Economic Profile
Agriculture · Agribusiness · Manufacturing · Transportation · Warehousing · Public Services · Human Services
Employment Sectors
Health Care & Social Assistance · Educational Services · Retail Trade
Education
Schools
10
Students
2,554
School Districts
Boyer Valley Community School District · Logan-Magnolia Community School District · West Harrison Community School District · Woodbine Community School District · Missouri Valley Community School District
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate 29 · U.S. Highway 30 · Iowa Highway 37 · Iowa Highway 44 · Iowa Highway 127 · Iowa Highway 183 · Iowa Highway 191
Utilities
Municipal services available
Major Facilities
Harrison County Courthouse
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge · Loess Hills State Forest · Willow Lake Recreation Area
Parks & Trails
Brent's Trail · Willow Lake Recreation Area · Harrison County Historical Village & Iowa Welcome Center
History
Founded
1851
Named After
William Henry Harrison, ninth U.S. President
Historical Significance
Reflects early settlement and agricultural development in western Iowa
Key Events
Establishment as part of Keokuk County · Early settlement by Mormon dissenters · Construction of courthouses in Magnolia and Logan