Decatur County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Decatur County is located in Kansas with a total population of 2,746. It is the 86th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Decatur County is 52.1 years. This is 40% higher than the state median of 37.2 years. 13.2% 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 Decatur County is $52,030. This is 28% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 34% lower. The poverty rate stands at 13.0%. This is 12% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 3.7%. This is 5% lower than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $78,500. Housing costs are 61% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.5x, Decatur County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 79.4% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 19% higher than the state average of 66.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Decatur County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.1%. The Black or African American population (1.7%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (4.1%) is well below the state average of 13.3%. The Asian population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

27.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 21% 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 94.2%.