Bourbon County

Unemployment in Bourbon County has climbed to 6.3%—the highest rate among all Kansas counties and nearly 50% above the state average of 4.3%. The rate has risen four consecutive months from a low of 4.7% in April 2026, marking a sharp reversal after the county briefly approached the state baseline. This uptick follows earlier volatility: the unemployment rate spiked to 6.1% in February before dipping, then resumed climbing in May.

Complicating the labor picture, home values have surged 9% over 12 months, from $129,493 to $141,101—a sustained monthly increase that signals strong demand or constrained supply. The latest reading in September 2026 hit $141,101, the highest on record in the available data. For a county of roughly 14,400 people, this combination—deteriorating job prospects paired with appreciating housing—could price out workers and create affordability pressure even as employment weakens.

Local reporters should investigate whether the home price appreciation reflects external investment or demographic migration, and whether job losses are concentrated in particular sectors or employers. Understanding the disconnect between rising housing costs and declining employment will be critical for assessing whether Bourbon County faces a broader economic recalibration.