Elections

As of 2024, Harvey County, KS, has approximately 22,500 registered voters. The county conducts general, primary, and local elections, overseen by the Harvey County Clerk’s office. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was around 55%. Polling locations include Newton High School and Hesston Mennonite Church. Republicans outnumber Democrats roughly 2:1. Recent issues include school funding and property taxes. Election results and polling details are published at www.harveycounty.com. Voting procedures and party administration are managed per Kansas state law to ensure fair and secure processes.

County Crime & Safety

Harvey County, KS, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported approximately 120 property crimes and 30 violent crimes per 10,000 residents in 2022. The local sheriff’s office encourages prompt crime reporting and community involvement in safety initiatives. Clearance rates for violent crimes average 55%, while property crime clearance lags at 18%. Overall, Harvey County’s crime statistics fall below national averages, reflecting ongoing efforts to keep the area safe.

Demographics

As of 2023, Harvey County, Kansas, has an estimated population of 33,740. The median age is 40.5 years, with 23.3% under 18 and 19.4% aged 65 or older. Females slightly outnumber males at 50.7% versus 49.3%. Racially, the population is 85.5% White, 3.7% African American, 0.7% Native American, 1.1% Asian, and 5.2% identifying with two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 10.7% of the population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Harvey County, KS, hosts around 20 public schools, including 3 high schools, with an average graduation rate of 92%. About 27% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The district average score on state assessments is 61%. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Several adult education centers, like Hutchinson Community College Newton Center, offer GED and vocational training. Robust educational programs include STEM, arts, and AP courses, supporting comprehensive student development.

As of 2023, Harvey County, KS, has an employment rate of approximately 62%. Top industries include manufacturing (23%), healthcare and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (12%). The most common occupation types are production (18%), office/administrative support (15%), and sales (9%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 19 minutes. Around 36% work outside the county, primarily commuting to Wichita or Sedgwick County.

Harvey County, KS, has a homeownership rate of about 71% and a median home value of approximately $155,000. Rental rates average $850 per month, with about 29% of residents renting. The housing market saw values rise 8% over the past year. Most homes are single-family houses, with some multi-family units in Newton and Hesston neighborhoods. Property tax rates average 1.4%, meaning a $155,000 home incurs about $2,170 in annual taxes. Neighborhoods like North Newton and Sedgwick offer established homes, while East Newton provides newer developments.