Latest Data (State + Local Government Employees)
According to the Rich States, Poor States analysis (using 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data on full-time equivalent public employees per 10,000 residents):
- Kansas: 698.05 per 10,000 residents → 48th (second-highest ratio among states).
- Wyoming: 867.01 → 50th (highest)
- Alaska: 701.37 → 49th
Kansas has consistently ranked near the bottom (high government employment density) for years, often 48th. This includes state, local, and often education workers. Factors include rural spread (more small governments/schools per capita), agriculture-related public services, and state institutions.
