Dickinson County Public RecordsKansas

As of the 2020 Census, Dickinson County, KS had a population of 18,402. The median age was 42.7 years. Gender distribution was approximately 50.2% male and 49.8% female. Racially, the county was 92.1% White, 1.8% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.5% Native American, and 4.3% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up about 4.2% of the population.

Dickinson County, KS, hosts around 15 public schools, including Abilene High School and Chapman High School. The county’s high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, while about 22% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Average school test scores are near the state average, with a score of 6/10 according to GreatSchools. The area offers adult education programs through local community colleges. School safety measures, such as security protocols and counseling services, are prioritized. Educational programs include career and technical education, special education, and gifted student options.

As of 2022, Dickinson County, KS, had an employment rate of 61.6%, with approximately 9,200 employed residents. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (16.8%), Manufacturing (14.2%), Retail Trade (11.5%), and Educational Services (9.1%). Key occupations are Office & Administrative Support (12.4%) and Production (11.3%). Most residents (83%) drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 19.2 minutes. Around 28% of residents work outside the county, mainly commuting to Saline and Geary counties.

Dickinson County, KS, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with a median home value of $123,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is around $770 monthly. The housing market has seen modest appreciation, with values rising roughly 5% year-over-year. Housing types are predominantly single-family homes, with some rentals and duplexes. Abilene, Chapman, and Herington are popular neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.32% of assessed value, translating to approximately $1,600 annually for a median-priced home. The area offers affordable living, with stable market trends and a variety of housing options.

As of 2024, Dickinson County, Kansas, has approximately 12,000 registered voters. The county conducts primary, general, local, and special elections, overseen by the Dickinson County Clerk’s office. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was about 58%. There are 30 polling locations across the county. Major issues in recent elections include property taxes and school funding. The Republican Party dominates, with 65% of votes in 2022; Democrats received 30%, and independents and others, 5%. Voter registration and turnout statistics, along with election results, are publicly administered for transparency.

Dickinson County, KS, generally reports lower crime rates than national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.8 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 10.4 per 1,000. Most incidents involve theft and minor vandalism. The county sheriff’s office actively promotes safety through community outreach and regular patrols. Crime statistics are publicly reported and reviewed annually, ensuring transparency. Overall, Dickinson County remains a relatively safe rural community with consistent decreases in crime rates over recent years.