Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Anderson County, KS had a population of approximately 7,836. The median age was 43.9 years. Females comprised about 50.2% and males 49.8% of the population. Racially, the county was 94.2% White, 0.9% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 3.1% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino ethnicity accounted for about 2.7% of residents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Anderson County, KS, has five public schools, including one high school—Anderson County High School. About 89% of adults have at least a high school diploma, while roughly 16% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. School safety is rated above average, with few incidents reported. The district offers various educational programs, including career and technical education. Average test scores for the county are slightly above the Kansas state average, emphasizing academic achievement and adult education opportunities.

Anderson County, KS, has an employment rate of approximately 58% (Labor Force Participation, U.S. Census Bureau 2022). Major industries include educational services, health care & social assistance (22%), manufacturing (17%), and retail trade (11%). Top occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (28%), and production, transportation, & material moving (25%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 27 minutes; around 27% work outside the county, primarily in nearby Franklin and Miami counties.

Anderson County, KS, has a homeownership rate around 74%, with median home values at approximately $120,000 in 2023. Rental properties average $750 monthly. Property values have risen about 4% year-over-year, reflecting modest market growth. Housing types are mainly single-family homes, with some duplexes and apartments. Notable neighborhoods include Garnett and Greeley, offering varied amenities. Property taxes average 1.4% of a home's assessed value, equaling about $1,680 yearly for a median-priced home. The area features affordable living and stable housing trends.

Elections

Anderson County, KS, had 5,024 registered voters as of 2022: 47% Republican, 22% Democrat, 31% Unaffiliated. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including school board and bond issues. In the 2020 presidential election, Republicans received 75% of county votes, Democrats 23%. Polling locations include the Garnett Community Center and township halls. The County Clerk’s Office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state law. Major issues include agriculture policy, education funding, and rural healthcare. Active party organizations, especially Republicans, influence local policymaking and candidate selection.

County Crime & Safety

Anderson County, KS, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported around 104 total offenses, including 12 violent crimes and 92 property crimes, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Crime rates have remained stable, with a focus on community-oriented policing and active reporting by residents. The incidence rate stands at approximately 13.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office encourages crime reporting to ensure public safety and swift responses. Most incidents involve theft and minor assaults, making Anderson County a generally safe community.