Pawnee County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Pawnee County is located in Kansas with a total population of 6,220. It is the 56th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Pawnee County is 44.9 years. This is 21% higher than the state median of 37.2 years. Only 14.4% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Pawnee County is $63,625. This is 12% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 19% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.2%. This is 3% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 1.2%. This is 69% lower than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $102,400. Housing costs are 50% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.6x, Pawnee County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 64.1% 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 Pawnee County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 81.7% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 8.7%.

Education

18.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 47% 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 89.4%.