Atchison County, KS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,208
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,112/yr
-1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,817
0.1% year-over-year change

Atchison County population

How many people live in Atchison County

Atchison County is home to 16,208 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Atchison County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
16,208
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
7,999
Female
50.6%
8,209
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,999 49.4% 1.4%
Female 8,209 50.6% -1.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Atchison County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 21.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.9% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
21.8%
25 to 44
19.9%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,834 17.5% -0.8%
15 to 24 3,528 21.8% 3.7%
25 to 44 3,222 19.9% -3.5%
45 to 64 3,693 22.8% -1.5%
Over 65 2,931 18.1% 2.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Atchison County, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.6% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,716 97% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 318 2% -20.3%
Non-citizens 174 1.1% 51.3%
Racial breakdown
White
87.6%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 14,207 87.6%
Black or African American 588 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 42 0.3%
Asian 55 0.3%
Two or more races 1,261 7.8%
Other 55 0.3%

Households in Atchison County

A peek inside Atchison County households

Atchison County has 5,735 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.8% are families, while the remaining 34.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,735
-2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,960
Family households
3,775
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,960 34.2% -6.2%
Family households 3,775 65.8% -0.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Atchison County

The housing landscape of Atchison County

Atchison County's housing consists of 6,817 units, with 80.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,817
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,488 80.5%
1 unit, attached 6 0.1%
2 units 157 2.3%
3 or 4 units 126 1.8%
5 to 9 units 60 0.9%
10 to 19 units 124 1.8%
20 to 49 units 263 3.9%
50 or more units 122 1.8%
Mobile home 471 6.9%
Homes built since 2020
34
21.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Atchison County

In Atchison County, the median construction year is 1968. About 30.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,091 30.7% 7.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 245 3.6% -28.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 545 8% 5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 647 9.5% -2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,370 20.1% 13.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 726 10.6% -4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 525 7.7% -30.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 437 6.4% 3.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 197 2.9% 17.3%
Built in 2020 or later 34 0.5% 21.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Atchison County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,735 occupied housing units in Atchison County, 71.9% are owner-occupied, while 28.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,735
-2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,611
Owner occupied
4,124
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,611 28.1% 3.2%
Owner occupied 4,124 71.9% -4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
15.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Atchison County housing costs

Housing costs in Atchison County come to a median of $833 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $765.

Median housing costs per month
$833/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Atchison County
$765/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Atchison County

Atchison County education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Atchison County went to high school, while 27.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 11.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 189 1.5% -7.8%
High school diploma 5,749 45.4% 0.2%
College diploma 3,539 27.9% 4.1%
Associate degree 907 7.2% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,444 11.4% -3.7%
Graduate degree 843 6.6% -6.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Atchison County

How much people earn in Atchison County

The average annual household income in Atchison County was $78,946 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,112, reflecting a -1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Atchison County
$78,946/year
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Atchison County
$61,112/year
-1.7% year-over-year change

Atchison County income by age

In Atchison County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,827 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $18,916, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,047 in earnings. Overall, 87% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $18,916 -29.9%
25 - 44 $83,750 15.7%
45 - 64 $68,827 -6.6%
Over 65 $50,047 8.5%
Above poverty level
12,560
Below poverty level
1,878
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,560 87% -0.7%
Below poverty level 1,878 13% 1.4%

Employment in Atchison County

Workforce and job types in Atchison County

The job market in Atchison County is powered by 7,795 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,795
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
6,016
Blue collar
1,779
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,016 77.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 1,779 22.8% 5.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
15.4%
Not for profit companies
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 521 6.7% -20.1%
Private companies 5,007 64.2% 0.7%
Governmental workers 1,203 15.4% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 1,064 13.6% 7.6%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
10.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Atchison County stands at 4.6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Atchison County

How people get around in Atchison County

In Atchison County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-1.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,174 82.7% -4.3%
Walk 617 8.3% 38.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Atchison County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
66058 378 133 $96,458 $91,156
66060 1,325 508 $77,222 $108,817
66424 486 202 $58,553 $68,044
66436 5,537 2,188 $71,016 $86,696
66439 2,578 1,047 $53,348 $64,209
66002 13,276 4,386 $61,364 $81,016
66016 559 221 $76,141 $94,563
66023 1,189 573 $55,759 $63,287
66041 614 300 $56,912 $65,649

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FAQs about Atchison County demographics 

What is the total population of Atchison County?

Atchison County has a total population of 16,208 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Atchison County?

The gender ratio in Atchison County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (7,999 residents)
  • 50.6% females (8,209 residents)

What is the median age in Atchison County?

The median age in Atchison County is 36.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Atchison County?

The age distribution in Atchison County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (2,834 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.8% (3,528 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.9% (3,222 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (3,693 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (2,931 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Atchison County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Atchison County is as follows:
  • White: 87.6% (14,207 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (588 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (42 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (55 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (1,261 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (55 residents)

What percentage of the population in Atchison County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Atchison County.

How many housing units are there in Atchison County?

There are 6,817 housing units in Atchison County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Atchison County and what is the average household size?

Atchison County has a total of 5,735 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Atchison County?

Atchison County has a median household income of $61,112, representing a -1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Atchison County?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Atchison County, with a workforce of 7,795 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.2% (6,016 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.8% (1,779 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (521 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (5,007 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.4% (1,203 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.6% (1,064 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025