Elk County Public RecordsKansas

Elk County, KS, serves about 500 students across 2 public schools, including West Elk High School. The county’s high school graduation rate is roughly 89%, but only about 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average school performance score is modest, typically around 5/10. School safety is emphasized, with low incident rates reported in recent years. Elk County schools offer vocational programs, but few advanced placement courses or adult education initiatives are available. Educational resources are limited, but small class sizes allow for personalized attention.

As of 2022, Elk County, KS had an employment rate of approximately 52%, with around 1,300 people employed. Key industries include Educational Services, Health Care & Social Assistance (about 18%), Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (16%), and Retail Trade (12%). The main occupation categories are Management, Office/Administrative Support, and Sales. Most residents (over 80%) drive alone to work, with a mean commute time of 23 minutes. While some work outside the county, most are employed locally, reflecting Elk County’s rural and agricultural economy.

Elk County, KS, has a homeownership rate of approximately 79%, with median home values around $68,000 as of 2023. Rentals are limited, with median rents near $600/month. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, older farmhouses, and some mobile homes. Property values have remained stable, with slight increases of 2-3% annually. Neighborhoods are mostly rural, with small towns like Howard and Moline offering community amenities. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 1.4% of assessed value. The real estate market is affordable, catering largely to families, retirees, and those seeking rural living.

Elk County, KS, had 1,912 registered voters in 2022, with Republicans comprising 72%, Democrats 16%, and unaffiliated 12%. The county holds local, state, and federal elections, typically at four polling locations, including the Howard Courthouse. In the 2020 presidential election, Trump received 83% of the vote, Biden 16%. Key issues include rural infrastructure and education funding. Administration is managed by the County Clerk's office. Voter turnout averaged 65% in major elections. Local politics are predominantly Republican, influencing policy on agriculture, taxation, and public services.

As of 2022, Elk County, Kansas has a population of approximately 2,440. The median age is 50.4 years, with 24% aged 65 or older. The gender split is about 51% male and 49% female. The county is predominantly White (over 92%), with around 1% African American, 2% Native American, and 3% Hispanic or Latino. Other races make up the remainder.

Elk County, KS, reports low crime rates compared to state averages, with a violent crime rate of approximately 1.7 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6.2 per 1,000 residents (FBI, 2022). The sheriff’s office oversees law enforcement and encourages community reporting through its hotline and online systems. While the county experienced fewer than 10 violent crimes and about 35 property crimes in 2022, residents are urged to follow safety guidelines. Overall, Elk County is considered a safe rural region with below-average crime levels.