Ford County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Ford County is located in Kansas with a total population of 34,133. It is the 16th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Ford County is 31.9 years. This is 14% lower than the state median of 37.2 years. With 30.8% of the population under 18, Ford County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Ford County is $70,495. This is 3% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 10% lower. The poverty rate stands at 14.4%. This is 25% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. This is 19% higher than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $132,700. Housing costs are 35% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Ford County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 64.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 4% lower than the state average of 66.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Ford County is Hispanic or Latino, making up 58.2% of the population. White (non-Hispanic) residents account for 36.4%. The White (non-Hispanic) population (36.4%) is well below the state average of 73.4%. The Black or African American population (2.3%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (58.2% vs 13.3%). The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

20.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 41% 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 77.0%.