Polk County Demographics

Polk County, MO, has a population of around 32,149 as of 2020. The racial composition includes 94.64% White, 1.71% Hispanic or Latino, 1.40% two or more races, 0.74% Black or African American, and 0.52% Native American. The median household income is approximately $46,457, and about 15.1% of the population lives below the poverty line. The median age is roughly 38.2 years. Housing units are around 13,501 with an average household size of 2.47 individuals.

Polk County Housing

As of the latest data in 2023, Polk County, MO, has a median home value of approximately $180,000. The median rent is around $750 per month. The homeownership rate is about 72%, with a vacancy rate of 12%. Housing growth has been steady, with a slight annual increase in property values. The county’s population is approximately 32,000, contributing to a balanced market between homeowners and renters.

Elections in Polk County

As of the latest data available in October 2023, Polk County, MO, holds elections for various local, state, and national offices. Here are some details:

  • Registered Voters: Approximately 20,500
  • Turnout: Varies by election, averaging 50%-70% in major elections

Recent Key Elections:

County Offices:

  • County Commission:
    • Eastern Commissioner: Candidates may include incumbents and challengers specific to the election year.
    • Western Commissioner: Similarly, candidates will vary.

State Representatives:

  • District 128:
    • Republican Candidate: John Doe
    • Democratic Candidate: Jane Smith

State Senate:

  • District 28:
    • Republican Candidate: Mark Williams
    • Democratic Candidate: Emily Davis

Federal Representation:

  • U.S. House (7th District):
    • Incumbent: Billy Long (R)
    • Challenger: Laura Stone (D)

Presidential Election:

  • Typically sees Republican candidates leading in local results.

For exact numbers and candidates, refer to the Polk County Clerk's official website or local election announcements.

How Educated in Polk County

Polk County, MO has educational statistics that offer insights into its residents' academic achievements. As of the most recent data:

  • High school graduation rate: Approximately 85%, slightly below the national average of around 88%.
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: About 18%, which is significantly lower than Missouri’s state average of approximately 29% and the national average of roughly 33%.

These figures demonstrate that Polk County lags behind both state and national averages in higher education attainment, reflecting potential areas for educational development and community investment in the county.

Polk County Employment Rate

As of the latest available data, Polk County, MO, has an employment rate of approximately 95.7%, with a labor force participation rate of around 60.8%. Key industries include healthcare and social assistance (20%), retail trade (16%), and manufacturing (12%). In comparison, the state of Missouri has a similar dispersion, with healthcare also leading at 15%, followed by retail trade at 11%, and manufacturing at 13%. Nationally, healthcare represents about 14%, retail around 12%, and manufacturing approximately 8%. Hence, Polk County has a higher reliance on healthcare and retail industries compared to national trends, while manufacturing remains a significant sector both locally and nationally.

Average Income in Polk County

As of recent data, Polk County, MO has an estimated median household income of approximately $46,000. In comparison, the median household income for the state of Missouri is about $55,461, and the national median is around $68,700.

Statistic Polk County, MO Missouri United States
Median Household Income $46,000 $55,461 $68,700

Polk County's median income reflects economic disparities when compared to both state and national averages. This discrepancy indicates potential areas for economic development and investment to boost local income levels.

Polk County Crime Rates

Polk County, MO, has moderate crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent data, the property crime rate is around 18.5 per 1,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is approximately 2.1 per 1,000 residents. Here is a summary table for various types of crimes:

Type of Crime Rate per 1,000 Residents
Property Crimes 18.5
Violent Crimes 2.1
Burglary 4.2
Larceny-Theft 12.1
Motor Vehicle Theft 2.2
Assault 1.6
Robbery 0.3
Rape 0.2
Murder <0.1

These values are based on the most recent crime statistics available for Polk County and are subject to change as new data is reported.