As of the census of 2000,[REF] there were 17,731 people, 6,420 households, and 4,853 families residing in the county.
In the county, the population was spread out with 30.20% under the age of 18, 7.60% from 18 to 24, 29.90% from 25 to 44, 20.20% from 45 to 64, and 12.10% who were 65 years of age or older.