County Crime & Safety

Noble County, IN, reports a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 450 total criminal incidents, with property crimes making up 60% of cases. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, accounted for around 70 cases. The overall crime rate is about 1,200 per 100,000 residents, below the national average of 2,300. The Noble County Sheriff's Department encourages prompt crime reporting, leading to a clearance rate of nearly 30%. Local safety programs and increased patrols have contributed to a gradual decline in crime over recent years.

Elections

Noble County, IN, with approximately 32,000 residents, had 24,300 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in primary, general, and local elections, with major parties being Republican and Democrat. In the 2020 presidential race, about 69% voted Republican, 28% Democrat. The County boasts 13 polling locations, overseen by the Noble County Election Board. Key issues include education, agriculture, and public safety. Voter registration is available online and at the clerk’s office. Election results and updates are posted on the county's official website after polls close at 6:00 PM on Election Day.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Noble County, Indiana had a population of 47,457. The median age is approximately 39 years. Gender distribution is 50.2% male and 49.8% female. Racially, the county is 89.1% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.3% Native American, and 6.5% from other races, with 10.7% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.

Education, Employment and Housing

Noble County, IN, hosts 14 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 16% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Public schools, such as East Noble High, average a GreatSchools rating of 5/10. The county offers vocational and dual-credit programs through area career centers. School safety initiatives include resource officers in most districts, and the county maintains a graduation rate near 90%. Adult education is available via Impact Institute, supporting GED and career training for local residents.

As of 2023, Noble County, IN, had an unemployment rate of 3.4%. Manufacturing dominates employment, comprising over 44% of jobs, followed by health care (12%) and retail trade (7%). Major occupations include production (31%), office/administrative support (10%), and transportation/material moving (9%). Most workers (76%) commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. About 55% of residents work within Noble County, while others commute to neighboring counties like Allen and Elkhart.

Noble County, IN, has a homeownership rate of around 76%, with median home values near $175,000 in 2023, reflecting steady 6% annual growth. Median gross rent is about $850. The county offers diverse housing: single-family homes dominate, alongside some apartments and manufactured homes. Key neighborhoods include Kendallville, Albion, and Ligonier. Property tax rates average 0.9%, with annual taxes on a median home near $1,575. The market remains affordable compared to state and national averages, attracting families and first-time buyers.