Kansas
Bourbon County
FIPS: 20011
14,384
population
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Unemployment in Bourbon County has hit 5.9%—the highest rate among all Kansas counties and nearly 50% above the state average of 4.0%.
The gap widened as joblessness climbed for two consecutive months. After falling to a recent low of 4.7% in April 2026, unemployment rose to 5.3% in May and reached 5.9% in June—a 25.5% increase from the low. The county's labor force of 6,005 residents has borne the brunt of what appears to be renewed labor market softening. Over the past 12 months, unemployment has ranged from 4.7% to 6.1%, showing persistent volatility without sustained improvement.
The employment headwinds have not yet cascaded into visible housing distress, though median home values show early signs of strain. Home values climbed from $128,027 in March to a peak of $139,961 in July, but fell to $138,860 in August—the first monthly decline in the six-month tracking window.
Local reporters should investigate what specific industries or employers in Bourbon County are shedding jobs and whether the reversal signals broader regional economic weakness or localized workforce disruption.
🔍 Data Signals
View all signals →Bourbon County, Kansas has KS's highest unemployment at 5.9%
With an unemployment rate of 5.9%, Bourbon County, Kansas leads KS counties — well above the state average of 4.0%. This county has struggled with higher-than-average unemployment compared to its peers.
Bourbon County, Kansas unemployment rising again — up 25.5% from its low
After bottoming at 4.7% (2026-04), unemployment in Bourbon County, Kansas has risen for 2 straight data releases to 5.9% — a 25.5% increase from its low. This reversal may signal renewed labor market softening.