Ford County Public RecordsKansas

Ford County, KS, reports a crime rate of approximately 23.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly above the state average. In 2022, the county recorded about 260 property crimes and 54 violent crimes, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Law enforcement maintains active crime reporting and community outreach to enhance safety. Although major crimes are relatively low, theft and burglary remain concerns. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities, contributing to prompt response and prevention efforts. Ford County’s overall safety rate remains stable, supported by proactive policing and public awareness programs.

As of the 2020 Census, Ford County, KS, had a population of 34,287. The median age was approximately 31 years. About 51% were male and 49% female. Racially, 66% identified as White, 2.8% as Black or African American, 2.4% as Asian, 1.7% as Native American, and 20.8% as "some other race," primarily due to a significant Hispanic or Latino population, which comprised 57% of residents.

Ford County, KS operates 19 public schools, including notable high schools like Dodge City High School, serving over 7,600 students. The high school graduation rate stands at approximately 85%, while around 18% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree. School safety initiatives are implemented across districts, maintaining a safe environment with below-average incident reports. Adult education is available through Dodge City Community College, offering GED and vocational programs. Standardized test scores are near the state average, and schools participate in programs such as STEM, bilingual education, and Advanced Placement, supporting diverse educational needs and college readiness.

As of 2022, Ford County, KS had an employment rate of approximately 66%, with about 18,400 employed residents. The largest industries are manufacturing (21.4%), agriculture (12.6%), and healthcare (10.2%). Major occupations include production (20.3%), management (12.8%), and transportation (11.1%). The average commute time is 15.8 minutes, with over 80% of workers driving alone. Most residents work locally in Dodge City, the county seat, while a small portion commutes to nearby counties for employment.

Ford County, KS has a homeownership rate of around 60%, with median home values near $145,000 as of 2023. Rental units account for about 40% of housing, with median rents around $900 monthly. The housing market has shown steady appreciation, with property values rising 5% year-over-year. Common housing types include single-family homes and some multi-family units, especially in Dodge City. Neighborhoods range from historic central areas to newer suburban developments. Property tax rates average 1.5% of assessed value, contributing to moderate annual tax bills for homeowners.

As of 2024, Ford County, KS has approximately 15,000 registered voters. Elections include federal, state, county, and municipal contests, with major participation in presidential (2020 turnout ~65%) and local elections. Key issues often include agriculture, immigration, and education. The two main political parties are Republican (about 65% of registrants) and Democrat (25%), plus minor/independent affiliations. Polling locations number nearly a dozen, primarily in Dodge City. The County Clerk oversees election administration, ensuring compliance with state law and voter accessibility. Republican candidates have historically dominated, with the GOP usually receiving over 60% of votes in countywide results.