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

Total population
178,025
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,104/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
81,075
0.2% year-over-year change

Shawnee County population

How many people live in Shawnee County

Shawnee County is home to 178,025 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Shawnee County locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
178,025
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
86,647
Female
51.3%
91,378
Value Percent YoY change
Male 86,647 48.7% -0.2%
Female 91,378 51.3% -0.2%
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 Shawnee County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 33,522 18.8% -1.3%
15 to 24 22,919 12.9% 0.5%
25 to 44 43,934 24.7% 0.4%
45 to 64 43,032 24.2% -2.1%
Over 65 34,618 19.4% 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 Shawnee County, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6.8% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.9% 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
2.6%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 168,745 94.8% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,666 2.6% -4.2%
Non-citizens 4,614 2.6% 2.1%
Racial breakdown
White
74.7%
Black or African American
6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.4%
Other
4.9%
Value Percent
White 132,921 74.7%
Black or African American 12,180 6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,085 0.6%
Asian 2,576 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 193 0.1%
Two or more races 20,272 11.4%
Other 8,798 4.9%

Households in Shawnee County

A peek inside Shawnee County households

Shawnee County has 75,458 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.4% are families, while the remaining 39.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
75,458
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
29,919
Family households
45,539
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 29,919 39.6% 3.6%
Family households 45,539 60.4% -0.2%
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 Shawnee County

The housing landscape of Shawnee County

Shawnee County's housing consists of 81,075 units, with 71% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.9% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
81,075
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 57,586 71%
1 unit, attached 3,992 4.9%
2 units 2,282 2.8%
3 or 4 units 2,713 3.4%
5 to 9 units 2,887 3.6%
10 to 19 units 3,313 4.1%
20 to 49 units 2,722 3.4%
50 or more units 2,929 3.6%
Mobile home 2,556 3.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 95 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
665
111.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shawnee County

In Shawnee County, the median construction year is 1972. About 13.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,904 13.4% -5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,228 5.2% -6.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,090 13.7% 1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,427 14.1% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,108 16.2% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,442 11.6% 4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,556 10.6% 0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,670 9.5% 4.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,985 4.9% 15.0%
Built in 2020 or later 665 0.8% 111.8%
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.

Shawnee County occupancy rates

Out of the 75,458 occupied housing units in Shawnee County, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
75,458
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
25,065
Owner occupied
50,393
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 25,065 33.2% 1.9%
Owner occupied 50,393 66.8% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.9%
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.

Shawnee County housing costs

Housing costs in Shawnee County come to a median of $1,032 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,000.

Median housing costs per month
$1,032/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 Shawnee County
$1,000/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 Shawnee County

Shawnee County education at a glance

About 36.1% of the population in Shawnee County went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 18.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,230 2.4% 10.7%
High school diploma 49,478 36.1% -0.6%
College diploma 32,564 23.8% 0.9%
Associate degree 11,265 8.2% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 25,241 18.4% -2.4%
Graduate degree 15,166 11.1% 1.8%
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 Shawnee County

How much people earn in Shawnee County

The average annual household income in Shawnee County was $88,163 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,104, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shawnee County
$88,163/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shawnee County
$67,104/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Shawnee County income by age

In Shawnee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,280. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,003 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,328, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,357 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,328 -6.0%
25 - 44 $79,280 2.4%
45 - 64 $84,003 4.2%
Over 65 $56,357 3.0%
Above poverty level
149,883
Below poverty level
21,715
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 149,883 87.4% -0.5%
Below poverty level 21,715 12.6% 2.5%

Employment in Shawnee County

Workforce and job types in Shawnee County

The job market in Shawnee County is powered by 83,664 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 59.1% are employed by private companies, and 21.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
83,664
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
64,810
Blue collar
18,854
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 64,810 77.5% -0.9%
Blue collar 18,854 22.5% -2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
59.1%
Governmental workers
21.6%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,994 8.4% -2.3%
Private companies 49,416 59.1% -2.8%
Governmental workers 18,036 21.6% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 9,218 11% 2.1%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shawnee County stands at 4.2%, 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 Shawnee County

How people get around in Shawnee County

In Shawnee County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 70,958 85.9% -2.3%
Bus or trolleybus 278 0.3% -48.8%
Motorcycle 67 0.1% -22.1%
Bicycle 47 0.1% 23.7%
Walk 1,326 1.6% -4.3%
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 Shawnee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
66606 9,842 4,610 $57,169 $77,738
66402 3,100 1,220 $88,427 $95,677
66409 3,133 1,455 $104,604 $130,601
66533 1,595 590 $62,237 $77,841
66539 3,092 1,325 $87,554 $112,189
66542 3,019 1,212 $108,218 $147,523
66546 1,143 491 $86,607 $93,109
66603 1,830 831 $44,688 $57,662
66604 23,006 9,806 $60,874 $79,001
66605 20,891 8,241 $59,106 $76,634

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FAQs about Shawnee County demographics 

What is the total population of Shawnee County?

Shawnee County has a total population of 178,025 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 Shawnee County?

The gender ratio in Shawnee County is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (86,647 residents)
  • 51.3% females (91,378 residents)

What is the median age in Shawnee County?

The median age in Shawnee County is 39.4.

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

The age distribution in Shawnee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (33,522 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (22,919 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (43,934 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (43,032 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.4% (34,618 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shawnee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shawnee County is as follows:
  • White: 74.7% (132,921 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.8% (12,180 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,085 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (2,576 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (193 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.4% (20,272 residents)
  • Other: 4.9% (8,798 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Shawnee County?

There are 81,075 housing units in Shawnee 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 Shawnee County and what is the average household size?

Shawnee County has a total of 75,458 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shawnee County?

Shawnee County has a median household income of $67,104, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Shawnee County, with a workforce of 83,664 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.5% (64,810 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.5% (18,854 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (6,994 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.1% (49,416 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.6% (18,036 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (9,218 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