Seward County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Seward County, Kansas, has a population of approximately 21,964. The racial demographic breakdown is about 56.7% White, 2.7% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, 1.1% Native American, and 36.9% Other races. Additionally, individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin represent around 62.4% of the population. The county covers an area of 640 square miles, with the majority residing in its largest city, Liberal.

As of recent data, Seward County, KS, has approximately 8,800 housing units. The homeownership rate is around 61%, with median home values at $95,000. Rentals account for about 39% of housing, with a median rent of $700 per month. The vacancy rate stands at 10%. The area experiences an average population density of 30 people per square mile. Housing stock varies from single-family homes to multifamily apartments, catering to diverse resident needs.

Seward County, Kansas, conducts local, state, and federal elections in alignment with Kansas state regulations. Key elections include positions such as county commissioners, sheriffs, and clerks.

2022 Election Overview:

• Registered Voters: Approx. 9,000
• Turnout: 18% in primary, 25% in general elections.

County Positions (2022):

• County Commissioners: Four-year terms. Up for election were Gary Warden (Republican) and incumbent Ada Linenbroker (Republican).
• Sheriff: Incumbent Gene Ward ran unopposed.
• County Clerk: Stacia Long (Republican).

State Representation (2022):

• House District 125: Shannon Francis (Republican).

U.S. Representation (2022):

• Senate: Roger Marshall (Republican, not on 2022 ballot).
• House, 1st District: Tracey Mann (Republican).

Numbers and candidates may vary in subsequent elections. Visit the Seward County Clerk’s office or the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Seward County, KS has varied education levels among its residents. Approximately 75.4% of individuals aged 25 and over have at least a high school diploma, compared to the national average of around 88% and the Kansas state average of roughly 90%. Furthermore, about 15.6% of residents in Seward County hold a bachelor's degree or higher, which is significantly lower than the national average of approximately 33% and the state average of around 32%. These figures indicate that Seward County lags behind both national and Kansas state averages in terms of educational attainment.

As of the most recent data, Seward County, KS, has a labor force participation rate of roughly 63.5%. Key industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The county's unemployment rate is around 2.8%, slightly below the national average of 3.7% and Kansas state average of 3.5%.

In comparison to national figures, Seward County has a higher percentage of employment in agriculture and food manufacturing due to its rural setting and presence of large meat processing plants. Conversely, it has lower employment in technology, finance, and professional services.

Nationally, top industries by employment percentage include healthcare, retail, and education services, reflecting a more diverse employment base. At the state level, Kansas also sees significant employment in manufacturing and agriculture but with greater diversification into aerospace and education sectors.

Overall, Seward County's economy leans heavily on primary and secondary industries more so than the broader state and national landscapes.

Based on recent data, Seward County, Kansas, has a median household income of approximately $50,000. In comparison, the median household income for the state of Kansas is around $59,000, while the national median is approximately $68,700. This indicates that Seward County's median household income is lower than both the state and national averages.

The lower median household income in Seward County compared to state and national figures may reflect local economic conditions, employment opportunities, and cost of living factors. Understanding these disparities is important for local policy and economic development efforts.

As of the latest data, Seward County, Kansas, has a crime rate slightly above the national average. The total crime rate is approximately 32.7 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime rates stand at around 3.9 per 1,000 residents, while property crimes occur at a rate of 28.8 per 1,000 residents.

Note: These figures can fluctuate yearly based on several factors, including law enforcement practices, community programs, and socio-economic changes. Always refer to local law enforcement agencies or official state resources for the most current statistics.