Ottawa County

Ottawa County Demographics

Ottawa County, KS, has a population of approximately 5,707 people. The median age is 40.6 years, with 24.9% under the age of 18 and 21.9% over 65. Gender distribution is approximately 50.2% male and 49.8% female. In terms of racial profile, approximately 96.5% of the population are White (non-Hispanic), 1.1% are Hispanic, 0.25% identify as Black or African American, and 0.7% are from two or more races. Asian and other racial/ethnic groups form the remainder.

Ottawa County Crime & Safety

Ottawa County in Kansas, maintains a reasonably safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate stands at around 2,300 per 100,000 citizens. While violent crimes are relatively low, property crimes are slightly more common, occurring at around 2,100 incidents per 100,000 residents. The Ottawa County Sheriff's Department prioritizes transparency through regular crime reporting. Ongoing community initiatives aim to further reduce crime rates in the region.

Ottawa County Housing & Property

In Ottawa County, Kansas, there is a higher rate of homeownership, with 77.8% of residents owning homes. The median home value is considerably lower, standing at around $85,400. According to US Census data, the majority of homes are single-family homes. With a significantly lower cost of living compared to other U.S. counties, rental fees are also lower, with the median rent being $735. Over the past year, property values have been relatively stable. Property taxes in Ottawa County average around 1.3% annually.

Employment in Ottawa County

Ottawa County, KS, has an employment rate of approximately 63.6%. The county's primary industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting at 28%, followed by construction at 11%, and manufacturing at 8%. Approximately, 18% of the workforce commutes outside the county. The area has seen a job growth rate of 0.9%. The majority of workers in Ottawa County commute less than 30 minutes, with a small percentage commuting more than 45 minutes.

Education in Ottawa County

Ottawa County, KS offers quality education through its various public schools. A good majority of students graduate high school, and many move onto post-secondary education. They have numerous programs dedicated to enhancing individual academic achievement such as arts and STEM initiatives. Adult education services are also available catering to several residents each year. County-wide efforts are taken to ensure safety in all its learning institutions.

Ottawa County Elections

Ottawa County, KS, in the United States, organizes local, state, and federal elections. The elections are overseen by the County Election Officer. In this county with a smaller population, thousands of registered voters participate, including those affiliated with Democratic, Republican, and Independent parties. It experienced a high voter turnout rate in the 2020 elections. Precise details on the number of registered voters, turnout percentage, and polling locations can be obtained through the Ottawa County Election Officer.

Average Income Rate in Ottawa County

Ottawa County, KS has a median household income of approximately $56,435, with 8.6% of the population living below the poverty line. Men's median salary is significantly higher than women's, with the former earning around $52,000 compared to the latter's $41,000. White households have a slightly higher median income, nearing $57,000. This is considerably below the national median household income of $68,700. The most lucrative profession in Ottawa County typically falls within the production and transportation industry.

Ottawa County Healthcare

Ottawa County, KS has a community-focused healthcare system, with healthcare being largely provided through the Ottawa County Health Center. Though the county doesn't have numerous hospitals, the Ottawa County Health Center adequately meets the healthcare needs of the locals. Health insurance coverage is high, with a majority provided through employer plans. The county health rankings are above average in Kansas with adequate access to healthcare professionals. Preventive care measures like regular screenings are also well incorporated into the system. The average healthcare cost in Ottawa County is moderate and life expectancy is on par with national averages.

Ottawa County Transportation

Ottawa County, Kansas features miles of roads with Highway US-81 being the primary route. The county has a high car ownership rate with the majority of residents depending on private cars for commuting. The average commute time is around 15 minutes. The county does not have a significant number of traffic accidents. There are no popular ride-share programs or bike lanes. The county's transportation budget is significantly smaller due to its rural nature and smaller population.

Ottawa County Environmental Data & Climate Data

Situated in the heart of the U.S., Ottawa County, Kansas, enjoys a climate with a mix of mild and extreme conditions, with an average temperature of 55°F and approximately 28 inches of rainfall annually. The air quality index is 71, considered 'moderate' in terms of pollution levels. There is almost universal clean water access, with vigorous efforts for recycling and green energy development. Solar installations are growing steadily in the area, reflecting the county's commitment to sustainable energy. The region’s predominant wind energy production also contributes to a relatively low carbon footprint.