Lima Reporter

Of the 42,154 citizens living in Mercer County in 2021, 98.6% said they were only one race, while 1.4% 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 Mercer County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 96.2% or 40,567 individuals. Following them, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander accounted for 0.9% and totaled 360 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Mercer County is 2.9% lower than the state average, which stands at 4.3%.

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 Mercer County.

	Estimated Total
White	40,567
Multiracial	580
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	360
African American	274
Asian	251
Some Other Race	122

Source: US Census Bureau