Decatur County Public RecordsKansas

As of the 2020 Census, Decatur County, KS had a population of 2,764. The median age was approximately 48 years, with 23% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution was slightly male-skewed, with 51% male and 49% female. The county's population was predominantly White (96.8%), with small representations from Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), two or more races (1.5%), and other racial groups under 1%.

Decatur County, KS, maintains a low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported only 18 total offenses, including 1 violent crime and 17 property crimes, with no homicides recorded. The crime rate is approximately 5.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly below the US average. Law enforcement emphasizes community policing and prompt reporting, contributing to the area’s overall safety and security.

Decatur County, Kansas, had approximately 2,290 registered voters as of 2022, with over 70% Republican, 17% Democrat, and the rest unaffiliated or minor parties. Elections include general, primary, and local municipal ballots. In the 2020 presidential race, Donald Trump received 85% of the county vote. The County Clerk’s office administers elections, with polling located at the Decatur County Courthouse in Oberlin and some township halls. Key local issues include agricultural policy and rural healthcare. Voter turnout often exceeds 65%. Election results and polling locations are available on the county website and at the clerk’s office.

Decatur County, KS has two main public schools, including Decatur Community Junior-Senior High School. About 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 17% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s schools maintain a student-teacher ratio of roughly 12:1, and the average graduation rate exceeds 90%. Educational programs include career and technical education. School safety is a priority, with low incident reports and strong community involvement. Adult education opportunities and GED programs are available through regional partnerships. Test scores are near the state average, with continued focus on improvement.

As of 2022, Decatur County, KS had an employment rate of approximately 59.3% among residents aged 16+. Key industries include agriculture (22%), health care and social assistance (15%), and retail trade (12%). The leading occupation types are management (24%), office/administrative support (13%), and sales (10%). Most residents (above 80%) work within the county, and the average commute time is 13 minutes. The civilian labor force numbers around 1,320 people, with an unemployment rate of 2.2%.

Decatur County, KS, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with a median home value of approximately $84,000 as of 2022. The rental vacancy rate is around 10%, and the median gross rent is $600. Property values have remained relatively stable over the past five years. Most homes are single-family residences, often found in quiet neighborhoods within Oberlin, the largest city. Property taxes average 1.5% of assessed value, with annual median property tax payments near $1,000, contributing to the area’s affordability.