Clay County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Clay County is located in Kansas with a total population of 8,071. It is the 47th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Clay County is 43.1 years. This is 16% higher than the state median of 37.2 years. 11.2% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Clay County is $63,136. This is 13% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.9%. This is 12% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 1.1%. This is 72% lower than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $149,600. Housing costs are 26% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x, Clay County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 73.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% higher than the state average of 66.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Clay County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.4% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.3%. The Black or African American population (2.3%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.3%) is well below the state average of 13.3%. The Asian population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

23.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 34% lower than the state rate of 35.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 93.2%.