Demographics

As of 2023, Montgomery County, KS, has a population of approximately 31,000. The median age is 41. About 49% are male and 51% female. Racially, the population is predominantly White (81%), with 6% identifying as Black or African American, 4% as Native American, 2% as Asian, and 7% as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Montgomery County, KS, has around 20,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. Results in 2020 showed Republicans securing 68% of the vote, Democrats 29%, and Libertarians 3%. There are 18 polling locations managed by the County Clerk’s Office, handling registrations and supervising elections. Key issues include education funding and economic development. The county has a strong Republican majority, with some Democratic and Libertarian presence. Voter turnout in 2020 was approximately 68%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Montgomery County, KS, hosts 18 public schools serving about 5,000 K–12 students, with a graduation rate near 87%. Approximately 17% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average student-teacher ratio is 14:1, and schools generally score around 5/10 on state assessments. Adult education is available through nearby community colleges, including Coffeyville Community College. School safety measures include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Educational programs feature STEM, arts, and vocational tracks.

As of 2022, Montgomery County, KS had an employment rate of approximately 55.5%. Major industries include manufacturing (23%), health care and social assistance (20%), and retail trade (13%). The leading occupation types are production (12%), office and administrative support (11%), and sales (9%). The average commute time is about 17 minutes, with most residents (87%) driving alone to work. Key employment locations include Independence, Coffeyville, and Caney, which serve as primary employment hubs within the county.

Montgomery County, KS, has a homeownership rate of approximately 68%, with median home values around $84,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is about $720 per month. The housing stock includes single-family homes, some duplexes, and older apartment complexes, primarily in cities like Independence and Coffeyville. Property values have seen modest annual increases of 2–3%. Neighborhoods vary from historic districts to newer suburban areas. Property tax rates average 1.45%, translating to roughly $1,220 annually on a median-priced home, making the county an affordable option compared to national numbers.

County Crime & Safety

Montgomery County, KS experiences moderate crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported 355 total crimes, including 32 violent crimes (rate: 3.1 per 1,000 residents) and 323 property crimes (rate: 31 per 1,000). Theft and burglary are the most common offenses. Crime reporting is managed by local law enforcement and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. While crime rates fluctuate annually, recent trends suggest stable or slightly declining figures. Residents are advised to follow safety protocols and report suspicious activity to maintain community security.