Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Gray County, Kansas, had a population of 5,653. The median age was about 34.9 years. Approximately 51% of residents were male and 49% female. Racially, the county was 82.3% White, 0.7% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 11.9% from other races; 4% identified as two or more races. Around 22% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race, reflecting the county’s diverse community.

Elections

Gray County, Kansas, had about 3,350 registered voters in 2022, primarily Republican (over 70%), with Democrats and unaffiliated making up the rest. The county holds primary, general, and local elections; 2020 presidential results showed 83% for the Republican candidate. Election administration is overseen by the County Clerk’s office, with main polling locations in Cimarron and Montezuma. Key issues include agriculture and rural development. The area follows strict voter ID laws and reported minimal voting issues. Local Republican and Democratic parties support candidate outreach efforts.

County Crime & Safety

Gray County, KS maintains a notably low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported only 15 total crimes (12 property, 3 violent), equating to about 2.2 crimes per 1,000 residents—well below Kansas’s 24 per 1,000. The sheriff’s office ensures public safety through active patrols and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to report incidents promptly; all major crimes are logged in the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System (KIBRS). Gray County’s commitment to safety is evident in its consistently low crime statistics and proactive law enforcement practices.

Education, Employment and Housing

Gray County, KS, hosts around 6 public schools with 2 high schools. The graduation rate is approximately 94%, while about 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average state assessment scores in math and reading hover near 75%. School safety remains strong, with below-average incident reports. The county offers adult education programs in partnership with regional colleges. Opportunities include career and technical education, special education, and extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational environment.

As of 2022, Gray County, KS had an employment rate of 62.2%. The largest industries were Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing (25%), Educational Services (14%), and Retail Trade (13%). Major occupations include Management (22%), Office & Administrative Support (15%), and Education (12%). The average commute time is 17.5 minutes, with 71% of workers commuting alone by car, and most employment located within the county. The unemployment rate stands at approximately 2.1%.

Gray County, KS, features a homeownership rate of around 74%, with median home values near $115,000 and median monthly rents about $685. Recent years have seen stable or slightly rising property values, driven by limited supply and modest demand. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some duplexes and mobile homes, in neighborhoods like Cimarron, Montezuma, and Ensign. Property taxes average 1.4% of assessed value, translating to about $1,610 annually for a median-priced home. The area offers affordable living with quiet, family-friendly communities and easy access to schools and local amenities.