Barber County

Barber County Demographics

Barber County, KS, has a population of approximately 4,634 residents. The median age is 52.1 years, with 19.7% under 18 and 32.4% over 65. Gender distribution is nearly balanced with 49.4% male and 50.6% female. In terms of racial ethnicity, the majority are White (non-Hispanic) with 96.4%, followed by 1% Hispanic, 0.6% Indigenous American, and 0.2% Asian. Other races account for about 1.8% of the population.

Barber County Crime & Safety

Barber County, Kansas, experiences a lower crime rate compared to most of the US counties, standing at 1,000 crimes per 100,000 residents. Violent crimes are particularly low with less than a handful reported each year, while property crimes tend to be more common. The local law enforcement agencies in Barber County are known for their proactive approach towards ensuring safety and security for the citizens, which has considerably helped in keeping the crime rates under control. The county also encourages active participation from the community in crime prevention initiatives.

Barber County Housing & Property

Barber County, KS boasts a high homeownership rate of 78.3%, with the median home value standing at $77,500. In terms of accommodation styles, housing predominantly consists of single-family homes. The median rent in Barber County, meanwhile, is relatively low at $629. Property values experienced a fluctuation last year and property taxes in the county are approximately 1.3% annually. The real estate market in Barber County provides affordable options for those looking to settle or invest in the area.

Employment in Barber County

Barber County, KS has an employment rate of 65.6%. The dominant industries contributing to employment include education (20%), healthcare (18%), and retail (11%). Approximately 30% of the workers commute outside the county for work. The county has seen a job growth of 1.5% recently. A majority, around 70% of the workers commute less than 30 minutes, while roughly 12% have to travel more than 45 minutes for work.

Education in Barber County

Barber County, KS, offers a combination of public and private educational opportunities. It is home to South Barber Unified School District which includes South Barber Elementary and High School. Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation oversees the majority of these schools. The county has implemented safety measures across all its schools and provides arts and sports programs. While specific statistical data on graduation rates, college readiness and adult education is sparse, the emphasis on education in Barber County is significant.

Barber County Elections

Barber County in Kansas is home to a modest number of registered voters. In the 2020 elections, Barber County reported a robust voter turnout. The elections encompass local, state, and federal races, systematically administered by the County Election Officer. The electorate consists of Democrats, Republicans, and independent voters. Throughout the county, different polling locations are available, ensuring the voting process is easily accessible to all residents.

Average Income Rate in Barber County

Barber County, KS has a median household income of around $48,250, somewhat lower than the national average of $68,700. The poverty rate stands at 11.4%, slightly less than the national rate. The income gap reflects gender discrepancies with women earning 77% of men's income. Detailed racial earnings data isn't readily available, however, the majority of working residents are engaged in the agricultural sector.

Barber County Healthcare

Barber County, KS healthcare offers reliable services despite its rural setting. However, with no hospitals within the county, residents often travel to surrounding areas for major medical services. Due to its limited healthcare infrastructure, Barber County has a high reliance on state-funded health programs. Majority of the population is insured, with employer plans covering most of them. The county prioritizes preventative care, encouraging regular screenings among residents. Life expectancy is on par with the national average. The county has a low rate of chronic diseases like diabetes, demonstrating the effectiveness of its healthcare practices.

Barber County Transportation

Primarily a rural region, Barber County, KS transportation revolves around its highway system including the prominent U.S. Route 281 and U.S. Route 160. The majority of residents rely heavily on private car ownership as the primary mode of transport, and the average commute time is under 20 minutes. There are limited public transportation options, thus ride-share programs and cycling opportunities are not prevalent. The county is committed to maintaining and improving its road infrastructure for the safety and convenience of its residents.

Barber County Environmental Data & Climate Data

Barber County, KS is primarily rural countryside with a semi-arid, continental climate, averaging 54°F. The county experiences moderate rainfall around 27 inches a year. Its air quality index is 75, considered 'good'. Freshwater access is widespread, although no specific data is available. Sustainable practices like recycling aren't widespread, mostly due to rural nature of county. Solar installations are still in the nascent stages, which shows room for growth in sustainable energy. The risk of natural disasters like tornadoes is moderate. The emphasis on green building is limited but growing gradually.