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

Total population
34,411
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,878/yr
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,682
0.2% year-over-year change

Cowley County population

How many people live in Cowley County

Cowley County is home to 34,411 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Cowley County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
34,411
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
17,421
Female
49.4%
16,990
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,421 50.6% -0.8%
Female 16,990 49.4% 0.3%
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 Cowley County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
18.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,623 19.2% -1.4%
15 to 24 5,080 14.8% 1.0%
25 to 44 7,987 23.2% -0.6%
45 to 64 8,203 23.8% -0.4%
Over 65 6,518 18.9% 0.8%
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 Cowley County, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,616 94.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 989 2.9% -8.3%
Non-citizens 806 2.3% -2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
80.2%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
11.4%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 27,599 80.2%
Black or African American 861 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 480 1.4%
Asian 532 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 97 0.3%
Two or more races 3,911 11.4%
Other 931 2.7%

Households in Cowley County

A peek inside Cowley County households

Cowley County has 13,387 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.3% are families, while the remaining 38.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,387
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,175
Family households
8,212
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,175 38.7% 3.0%
Family households 8,212 61.3% -1.2%
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 Cowley County

The housing landscape of Cowley County

Cowley County's housing consists of 15,682 units, with 74.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 8.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,682
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,724 74.8%
1 unit, attached 195 1.2%
2 units 684 4.4%
3 or 4 units 541 3.4%
5 to 9 units 459 2.9%
10 to 19 units 194 1.2%
20 to 49 units 368 2.4%
50 or more units 215 1.4%
Mobile home 1,291 8.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
176
179.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cowley County

In Cowley County, the median construction year is 1961. About 27.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,330 27.6% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 841 5.4% 9.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,568 16.4% 6.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,289 8.2% -3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,922 12.3% -0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,684 10.7% 2.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,447 9.2% -13.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 991 6.3% -2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 434 2.8% -7.7%
Built in 2020 or later 176 1.1% 179.4%
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.

Cowley County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,387 occupied housing units in Cowley County, 68.1% are owner-occupied, while 31.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,387
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,270
Owner occupied
9,117
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,270 31.9% 8.4%
Owner occupied 9,117 68.1% -3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.6%
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.

Cowley County housing costs

Housing costs in Cowley County come to a median of $875 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $809.

Median housing costs per month
$875/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 Cowley County
$809/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 Cowley County

Cowley County education at a glance

About 38.3% of the population in Cowley County went to high school, while 25.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 644 2.4% 3.2%
High school diploma 10,063 38.3% 2.6%
College diploma 6,716 25.5% -3.8%
Associate degree 3,105 11.8% -2.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,875 14.7% 3.8%
Graduate degree 1,897 7.2% -5.0%
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 Cowley County

How much people earn in Cowley County

The average annual household income in Cowley County was $81,245 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,878, reflecting a -0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cowley County
$81,245/year
5.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cowley County
$57,878/year
-0.7% year-over-year change

Cowley County income by age

In Cowley County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,048. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,793 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,553, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,444 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,553 2.6%
25 - 44 $65,048 -1.5%
45 - 64 $66,793 -4.8%
Over 65 $48,444 0.2%
Above poverty level
27,297
Below poverty level
4,524
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,297 85.8% -0.3%
Below poverty level 4,524 14.2% 2.9%

Employment in Cowley County

Workforce and job types in Cowley County

The job market in Cowley County is powered by 15,180 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.7% run their own businesses, 59.2% are employed by private companies, and 19.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,180
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
10,185
Blue collar
4,995
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,185 67.1% -3.7%
Blue collar 4,995 32.9% 7.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.7%
Private companies
59.2%
Governmental workers
19.4%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,773 11.7% 2.5%
Private companies 8,980 59.2% -0.3%
Governmental workers 2,943 19.4% 1.4%
Not for profit companies 1,484 9.8% -6.4%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-23.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cowley County stands at 3.8%, 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 Cowley County

How people get around in Cowley County

Commuting methods vary: 91.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,709 91.7% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.1% 7.1%
Motorcycle 18 0.1% 50.0%
Bicycle 28 0.2% -37.8%
Walk 189 1.3% -25.6%
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 Cowley County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
67119 1,287 525 $61,641 $78,812
67131 274 124 $62,083 $78,973
67146 1,867 683 $79,688 $89,035
67072 290 153 $0 $43,381
67005 15,073 6,122 $54,516 $71,942
67008 494 180 $60,556 $81,455
67019 992 378 $60,833 $85,878
67023 112 43 $95,625 $86,823
67024 937 436 $34,231 $44,538
67038 692 231 $55,699 $70,231

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FAQs about Cowley County demographics 

What is the total population of Cowley County?

Cowley County has a total population of 34,411 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cowley County?

The gender ratio in Cowley County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (17,421 residents)
  • 49.4% females (16,990 residents)

What is the median age in Cowley County?

The median age in Cowley County is 39.2.

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

The age distribution in Cowley County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (6,623 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (5,080 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (7,987 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (8,203 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.9% (6,518 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cowley County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cowley County is as follows:
  • White: 80.2% (27,599 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (861 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (480 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (532 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (97 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.4% (3,911 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (931 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Cowley County.

How many housing units are there in Cowley County?

There are 15,682 housing units in Cowley County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cowley County has a total of 13,387 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cowley County?

Cowley County has a median household income of $57,878, representing a -0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Cowley County, with a workforce of 15,180 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.1% (10,185 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.9% (4,995 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.7% (1,773 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.2% (8,980 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.4% (2,943 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (1,484 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