Smith County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Smith County is located in Kansas with a total population of 3,579. It is the 76th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas.

Age Demographics

The median age in Smith County is 50.0 years. This is 34% higher than the state median of 37.2 years. 13.0% 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 Smith County is $57,024. This is 21% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 27% lower. The poverty rate stands at 7.8%. This is 32% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 1.6%. This is 58% lower than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $91,000. Housing costs are 55% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.6x, Smith County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 83.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 24% higher than the state average of 66.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Smith County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.1%. The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.1%) is well below the state average of 13.3%. The Asian population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

24.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 30% 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 94.9%.