Marion County Public RecordsKansas

As of the 2020 Census, Marion County, Kansas, had a population of 11,823. The median age was 44.8 years, with 22.3% under 18 and 22.3% aged 65 or older. Females made up 50.1% of the population, males 49.9%. The county’s racial/ethnic composition was 94.1% White, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 1.3% from other races, and 2.4% identifying as two or more races; 4.2% were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Marion County, KS maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to the latest available data, the county reported approximately 9.6 crimes per 1,000 residents in 2022, with property crimes outnumbering violent crimes. Violent crime rates remain under 1 per 1,000 residents, and annual law enforcement reports show consistent efforts in crime prevention and community safety programs. Most crime incidents involve theft or burglary, while major violent crimes are rare. Local authorities encourage timely reporting through established hotlines and online systems to maintain public safety standards.

Marion County, KS, has 8 public schools, including Marion High School, serving around 1,200 students countywide. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, while about 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools typically score above the state average on standardized tests, with an average proficiency rate of 68% in reading and 64% in math. Adult education and vocational programs are available through regional partnerships. School safety is a priority, with all schools implementing security protocols and reporting low incident rates annually. Specialized STEM and agricultural programs enrich the educational offerings.

As of 2023, Marion County, KS, has an employment rate of roughly 62%. Major industries include manufacturing (17%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (12%). The predominant occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (26%), followed by production, transportation, and material moving (24%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes; around 62% work within the county. Key employment hubs include Marion and Hillsboro, with local schools and health centers being top employers.

Marion County, KS has a high homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with a median home value around $95,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is about $650 per month. Housing types mainly include single-family homes and some multi-family units, especially in towns like Marion and Hillsboro. Property values have risen about 5% over the past year, reflecting steady demand. Neighborhoods are typically quiet and rural, with small-town amenities. The county property tax rate averages 1.6%, resulting in an annual tax of roughly $1,520 on a median-value home.

Marion County, KS, has approximately 7,500 registered voters as of 2023. Elections include federal, state, county, city, and school board races. In the 2022 general election, turnout was about 55%. Polling locations are set in towns like Marion, Hillsboro, and Peabody. The county’s results typically favor Republican candidates, with GOP capturing around 70% of votes in recent cycles. Key local issues include rural infrastructure and education funding. Elections are administered by the Marion County Clerk’s Office, and major parties present are Republican and Democratic, with registered Republicans significantly outnumbering Democrats.