Northwoods Reporter

Of the 44,806 citizens living in Polk County in 2021, 97.4% said they were only one race, while 2.6% said they were two or more races, according to U.S. Census Bureau data obtained in June.

The most prevalent racial group among citizens in Polk County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 95.4% or 42,766 individuals. Following them, American Indian or Alaska Native accounted for 0.6% and totaled 279 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Polk County is 1.8% lower than the state average, which stands at 4.4%.

An agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System, the Census Bureau is responsible for compiling statistical facts about the American people, places and economy. Data for this story was compiled from the bureau's American Community Survey. Information from the survey helps to determine how federal and state funds are distributed. These funds significantly influence community services, education, and infrastructure in areas like Polk County.

	Estimated Total
White	42,766
Multiracial	1,185
American Indian or Alaska Native	279
Some Other Race	209
African American	185
Asian	172
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	10

Source: US Census Bureau