Labette County

Labette County, Kansas

PO Box 387
Oswego, KS 67356
Phone: (620) 795-2138
Fax: (620) 795-2928
www.labettecounty.com

On the southeastern border of KS, west of Joplin, MO; organized Feb 7, 1867 from Neosho County. Name Origin: For the creek, which runs through the county, named La Bette, possibly for a Pierre Labette who lived near the mouth of the stream. An 1836 map names it La Bete, French for 'the beast.'

Area (sq mi):: 653.30 (land 648.82; water 4.48) Population per square mile: 34.20
Population 2005: 22,169 State rank: 26 Population change: 2000-20005 -2.90%; 1990-2000 -3.60% Population 2000: 22,835 (White 87.80%; Black or African American 4.70%; Hispanic or Latino 3.10%; Asian 0.30%; Other 5.70%). Foreign born: 1.00%. Median age: 37.90
Income 2000: per capita $15,525; median household $30,875; Population below poverty level: 12.70% Personal per capita income (2000-2003): $21,051-$22,970
Unemployment (2004): 6.70% Unemployment change (from 2000): 1.10% Median travel time to work: 16.80 minutes Working outside county of residence: 15.50%
Cities with population over 10,000:
  • Parsons (11,291)

  • See other counties in Kansas.