Independence Public RecordsKansas

Independence, Montgomery County, KS, is served primarily by Labette Health Independence Healthcare Center, alongside smaller clinics. As of 2023, the county’s uninsured rate is 12.6%, below the Kansas average (14.1%). The population skews older (20.2% over 65), with prevalent health issues including diabetes (11.0%) and heart disease. Local provider density is about 1 primary care physician per 2,300 residents. Access to mental health services is limited, contributing to increasing behavioral health concerns. Medicare and Medicaid coverage rates are 26% and 22%, respectively, with 65% white and 11% Hispanic residents receiving services.

Independence city in Montgomery County, KS, had a 2020 population of approximately 8,548. The median age was 36.9 years. Females comprised 51.3% and males 48.7% of the population. Racially, the city was 80.4% White, 6.3% Black or African American, 2.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 8.4% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 6.9% of the population.

Independence, Montgomery, KS, has six public schools, including Independence High School and Independence Community College for associate degrees; bachelor’s options are limited locally. The high school graduation rate is about 85%. School ratings average around 5/10 on GreatSchools. The city offers adult education and GED programs via the college. School safety initiatives include security systems and anti-bullying programs. Advanced placement and career/technical education courses are available. Overall, educational attainment for adults (bachelor’s degree or higher) is approximately 16%, below the national average.

Independence, Montgomery County, KS, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with over 91% of residents commuting by car and vehicle ownership rates around 95%. The city lacks fixed-route public transit, so public transportation usage is negligible. The average commute time is approximately 15 minutes, notably shorter than the national average. Transportation infrastructure includes U.S. Highway 75, U.S. Highway 160, and local arterial roads. Major employment hubs include industries such as manufacturing, education, and healthcare, centered around facilities like Independence Community College and Mercy Hospital. Carpooling and walking are minor commute modes, each used by under 5% of residents.

In Independence, Montgomery County, KS, about 56% of residents own homes while 44% rent. The median home value is approximately $78,000, with median rent around $760 per month. Property values have remained relatively stable, with a modest growth of 1–2% annually. Housing types predominantly include single-family homes, with some apartments and duplexes mainly in central neighborhoods. Popular areas are near Riverside Park and the west side. Property tax rates average 1.38% of assessed value, making homeownership affordable compared to state and national averages.