Ness County

Ness County Demographics

Ness County, KS, has a population of approximately 2,785 people. The median age is 51.4 years, with 17.6% under 18 and 28.2% over 65. The gender distribution is almost even with 50.3% male and 49.7% female. The racial composition is predominantly White (non-Hispanic) at 95.6%, followed by Hispanic at 2.9%, Asian and Black populations account for less than 1% each.

Ness County Crime & Safety

Ness County, KS has a low crime rate with about 106 crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Violent crimes are extremely rare, tallying around 5 per 100,000 residents. Property crimes are more frequent but still relatively low, with about 101 incidents per 100,000 people. The Ness County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining public safety and reporting on crime. Overall, the county is considered to be a safe region with crime rates significantly below the national average.

Ness County Housing & Property

Ness County is a small rural region in Kansas that has a homeownership rate of 81.6%. The median home value in Ness County is around $75,200, a comparatively much lower than the national median. Rent prices are also significantly below the national average, with a median monthly rental of about $600. The housing market mostly consists of single-family homes that contribute towards 88.4% of the housing. Apartments form a small percentage of the housing type. Property taxes in Ness County average about 1.4% annually.

Employment in Ness County

Ness County, KS, has a solid employment rate of 92.2% with the most major industries being agriculture and forestry, healthcare, and educational services. The county sees a considerable number of its working residents, about 35%, commuting outside the county for work. Job growth has been slow but steady at 1.6%. Most workers, approximately 70%, have a commute of less than 30 minutes, while around 10% commute for 45 minutes or more.

Education in Ness County

Ness County, KS is served by several public school districts, with three main high schools. While specific data on graduation rates or college readiness is not readily available, Kansas state averages suggest around 86% graduation rate. Some residents may also pursue education through distance-learning colleges or universities. Additionally, Ness County is just a short drive away from Fort Hays State University, one of the largest educational institutions in the state. STEM and arts programs are typically available in schools. Adult education opportunities exist particularly through online platforms.

Ness County Elections

Ness County, KS is a small community with a varied voter base. With numerous registered voters, they participate in local, state, and federal elections. The county has various polling locations for its residents. Turnout percentage varies, emphasizing active voter engagement in this county. The elections in Ness County are managed by the County Clerk's office. This Kansas county encompasses voters from Republican, Democratic, and Independent parties, highlighting the diversity in political opinion and preference.

Average Income Rate in Ness County

The median household income in Ness County, Kansas is approximately $51,897, slightly below the state median of $59,597 and the national median income of $68,700. The poverty rate is around 10.8%. The gender pay gap in Ness County has women earning 77% of what men earn. The income disparities breakdown by race shows White households earn $54,000, but data on other races is unavailable. Skilled workers in the agriculture industry are among the highest earners in Ness County.

Ness County Healthcare

Ness County, KS has limited healthcare facilities due to its small population and rural location with one primary hospital. The county has a lower percentage of insured residents compared to the national average, with the majority of insurance provided by employer plans. With a significant elderly population, regular health screenings are essential for the community. The county hosts several healthcare professionals, adding to the rural healthcare workforce. Healthcare costs are slightly lower than the national average. Overall, accessibility and affordability remain key healthcare issues in this rural county.

Ness County Transportation

Ness County, KS has a good network of highways, including U.S. Route 283, providing safe and efficient road transportation. The average commute time is longer compared to the national average. Car ownership is popular among residents, providing autonomy of movement. For flights, residents have access to multiple airports located in surrounding counties. Local public transportation services are limited with no major bus routes, ride-share programs, or extensive bike lanes in the county. The annual transportation budget is managed by Kansas Department of Transportation for operative maintenance.

Ness County Environmental Data & Climate Data

Ness County, KS features a semi-arid steppe climate, with an average temperature of about 56°F. Annually, it receives about 25 inches of rainfall. Its Air Quality Index (AQI) is usually in the good range, indicating a low level of pollution. The county is committed to green living, with a focus on recycling and eco-friendly initiatives. Access to clean water is almost universal and there's a growing interest in renewable energy solutions. However, specific data on renewable installations or annual extreme weather risk is not readily available for Ness County.