Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Wilson County, KS had a population of 8,624. The median age was 44.2 years, with 21% under 18 and 22% aged 65 or older. The gender split was roughly 50.3% female and 49.7% male. Racially, the county was 91.7% White, 1.1% Black or African American, 1.2% Native American, and 2.7% identifying as two or more races; Hispanic or Latino residents made up 3.5% of the population.

County Crime & Safety

Wilson County, KS, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported around 75 total crimes in 2022, with a crime rate of 11.3 per 1,000 residents. Most incidents involve property crimes, such as theft and burglary, while violent crimes remain rare, with fewer than 10 reported cases annually. The county sheriff’s office encourages residents to report suspicious activity promptly, contributing to high clearance rates and community safety through routine patrols and public engagement programs.

Elections

Wilson County, Kansas had approximately 5,450 registered voters as of 2022. The county holds general, primary, and local elections; polling locations include the Fredonia and Neodesha community buildings. In the 2020 presidential election, 75% of votes favored Republican candidates, 22% Democrat, and 3% others. The Wilson County Clerk administers elections, often addressing issues like poll accessibility and ballot security. The area is predominantly Republican, with minor Democratic and independent participation. Local issues include school funding and rural services. Major parties competing are the Republican and Democratic parties, with occasional Libertarian or independent candidates.

Education, Employment and Housing

Wilson County, KS has 7 public schools, including 2 high schools. Around 87.7% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 13.1% have a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census). The average public school rating is 5/10 (GreatSchools). School safety initiatives include secure entry systems and anti-bullying programs. Educational programs feature technical and vocational training through partnerships with community colleges. Adult education opportunities are available, especially in GED and job-skills improvement.

As of 2022, Wilson County, KS, had an employment rate of 52.3%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (19.7%), Manufacturing (13.3%), and Retail Trade (11.5%). Most workers are employed in Office & Administrative Support (12.2%) and Management (10.8%) occupations. About 82.6% of residents work within the county, and the average commute time is 18.5 minutes. Major employment hubs are Fredonia and Neodesha, with some commuting to nearby counties like Montgomery and Labette.

Wilson County, KS, has a homeownership rate of around 78%, with median home values near $82,000 as of 2023. Rental occupancy is about 22%, and median gross rent is approximately $660/month. Property values have seen modest annual increases of roughly 2-3%. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes and some duplexes, with neighborhoods in cities like Fredonia and Neodesha offering small-town character. Property tax rates average 1.47% of a home's assessed value, resulting in annual taxes near $1,200 for a median-priced home. The market remains affordable compared to state and national averages.