Colby, KS Demographics

Overview of Colby Demographics

The demographics of Colby offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 5,426, Colby exhibits a population density of 1,515 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 34, with 56% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 40% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Colby, 24% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 13% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.

Colby Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Understanding the Colby racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Colby, the racial breakdown indicates 92% White, 3.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 6.5% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 94.6% of households reported speaking English only, while 4.1% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 5.7% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

Colby Population Density

Colby has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Colby has a population density of 1,515 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.

Why are Demographics Important?

Education Allocation: In education planning, Colby demographic data can be invaluable for identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the formulation of effective educational programs. It serves as a crucial tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Colby demographic data can be an essential tool in education for promoting equity, facilitating student success, and nurturing inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.

Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Colby demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Colby demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.

Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Colby demographic data, it can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities, and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends helps healthcare providers and policymakers allocate resources, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. By leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards achieving equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures that interventions are targeted, resources are allocated efficiently, and healthcare services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of populations.