| Statistic | Great Bend | Kansas | National |
| Population | 15,224 | 2,913,314 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,450 | 36 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.7 | 36.2 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 61% | 59% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 43% | 45% | 43% |
| Speak English | 86% | 89% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 13% | 8% | 13% |
Great Bend demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Great Bend population is 15,224 and has a population density of 1,450 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 36.7, 61% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 43% have kids under the age of 18. In Great Bend, 24% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 10% of households report a median income above $150,000.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Great Bend are 86.9% White, 1.1% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, 1.4% American Indian and 0.4% Native Hawaiian, with 23.5% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 85.8% of households reported speaking English only, while 13.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 8.8% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Great Bend racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Areas like Great Bend that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Great Bend population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,450 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
Social Cohesion: The reporting and analysis of demographics are essential for fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and valuing differences in Great Bend demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while tackling social disparities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics showcase the varied makeup of a population and play a vital role in nurturing inclusive and hospitable communities. Embracing diversity bolsters social cohesion, enhances cultural comprehension and enriches society by honoring the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Understanding Populations: Analyzing and interpreting the Great Bend demographic data provides us with valuable insights into the characteristics and composition of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic variables. This understanding is crucial for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and challenges encountered by various demographic groups within communities. Demographics play a crucial role in understanding populations, informing decision-making processes, and advancing equity, inclusion, and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Great Bend population and demographic data serves as a foundation for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also nurturing the well-being and resilience of societies.
Urban Development: Great Bend demographic statistics are invaluable for urban planners in designing and developing areas that cater to residents' needs, encompassing housing, transportation, and public services, all while fostering sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Shifts in demographics can influence gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may increase, potentially displacing long-term residents and altering the neighborhood's character. Analyzing population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels is crucial for guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Utilizing Great Bend demographic data in planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.
| Race | Great Bend | Kansas | National |
| White | 86.91% | 85.19% | 73.35% |
| Black | 1.12% | 5.79% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.22% | 2.68% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 1.37% | 0.82% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.41% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 6.56% | 3.31% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 3.42% | 2.15% | 4.75% |
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