Sumner County Public RecordsKansas

Sumner County, KS maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 220 total crimes—180 property crimes and 40 violent crimes—reflecting a slight decline from previous years. The crime rate stands at about 15 per 1,000 residents, with theft and burglary as the most common offenses. Local law enforcement actively encourages community engagement and crime reporting, resulting in over 95% of incidents being documented and investigated. Overall, Sumner County is considered a safe area, with continuous efforts to improve safety.

As of the 2020 Census, Sumner County, Kansas, had a population of approximately 22,382. The median age was 42.2 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. Racially, the county was 89.7% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.0% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 5.7% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino ethnicity comprised 7.1% of the population.

Sumner County, KS has around 11 public schools, including 4 high schools. Roughly 90% of adults hold a high school diploma, while about 17% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures meet Kansas standards, though school performance scores average slightly below the state mean, with a typical district score around 67/100. Adult education is supported through local community college outreach and GED programs. Educational programs include career and technical training, FFA, and robotics, enhancing student opportunities.

Sumner County, KS, had an unemployment rate of 3.2% as of early 2024. The leading employment sectors are manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (12%). The largest occupation types include production (15%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (11%). About 35% of residents work locally, while 45% commute to neighboring counties, mainly Sedgwick (Wichita area). The average commute time is 23 minutes. Notably, agriculture remains an important, though smaller, employer, supporting around 7% of the workforce.

Sumner County, KS, boasts a homeownership rate of around 73%, with median home values near $90,000. Rental units make up roughly 27% of the market, with average monthly rents about $800. Recent market trends show stable property values, with slight annual increases of approximately 2%-3%. Housing types range from single-family homes in towns like Wellington to rural farmhouses. Neighborhoods offer quiet, affordable living with strong community ties. Property tax rates average 1.4% of home value, keeping costs manageable for residents.

Sumner County, KS, had 14,521 registered voters as of 2022, predominantly Republican (about 63%), with Democrats (23%) and unaffiliated (14%). The county holds general, primary, municipal, and school board elections. In the 2020 presidential election, Sumner County voted 71% for the Republican candidate. Polling locations include precincts in Wellington, Belle Plaine, and Conway Springs. Key issues often include agriculture, education, and tax policy. Elections are administered by the Sumner County Clerk’s Office, which oversees about 25 polling stations. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with Libertarian or independent candidates less common.