countyscore
40.8
County Score
Disaster Risk 84.8Cost of Living 78.3Lawn Care 65.6

County Report Card

About Allen County, Kansas

Allen County Trails National Benchmarks

With a composite score of 40.8, Allen County sits roughly 9 points below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural environment where affordability is strong but other livability metrics face hurdles.

Falling Short of the Kansas Average

Allen County ranks significantly lower than the Kansas state average composite score of 49.5. This performance highlights a gap between local conditions and the broader economic stability found in other parts of the state.

High Affordability and Low Environmental Risk

The county excels in housing affordability with a cost score of 78.3, supported by a median gross rent of just $685. Additionally, a risk score of 84.8 indicates the area is exceptionally well-protected against natural disasters compared to the rest of the country.

Struggles with Taxes and Safety

Property owners face a high effective tax rate of 1.652%, resulting in a very low tax score of 8.3. Safety is also a primary concern, as the county's safety score of 11.1 is among the lowest dimensions in its profile.

A Haven for Budget-Conscious Residents

This county is best suited for individuals or retirees who prioritize low housing costs and environmental safety over local amenities or tax efficiency. Those with remote income can leverage the median home value of $100,400 to maintain a very low cost of living.

Score breakdown

Tax8.3Cost78.3Safety11.1Health45.6Schools46.1Income32.1Risk84.8Water41.4Weather55.1
🏛8.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠78.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡11.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤45.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡84.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧41.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨62.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.6
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Neosho County
Kansas
44.4
Bourbon County
Kansas
41.9
Woodson County
Kansas
60
Anderson County
Kansas
54.9
Wilson County
Kansas
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Crawford County
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Linn County
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Coffey County
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Deep Dives

Allen County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Allen County

via TaxByCounty

Allen taxes run light nationally

Allen County's effective tax rate of 1.652% sits above the national median of 1.4%, placing it around the 60th percentile for property tax burden across the country. Homeowners here pay a median of $1,659 annually, well below the national median of $2,690, because Kansas home values average significantly lower than the U.S. norm.

Slightly above Kansas average

Allen County ranks in the middle-to-upper range among Kansas's 105 counties, with an effective rate of 1.652% compared to the state average of 1.549%. The median tax bill of $1,659 falls below Kansas's state median of $1,943, reflecting the county's lower property values.

Higher than nearby Anderson County

Allen County's 1.652% rate edges above Anderson County's 1.528%, though both counties fall near the state average. Allen homeowners pay slightly less in absolute dollars ($1,659 vs. $2,260), thanks to a lower median home value of $100,400 compared to Anderson's $147,900.

Your Allen County tax bill

A homeowner with a $100,400 property in Allen County pays roughly $1,659 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. This figure rises to approximately $1,829 with mortgage-related taxes included, or dips to $1,553 without mortgage provisions.

Challenge your assessment

Many Kansas property owners carry inflated assessments that don't reflect current market values. If you believe your Allen County home is overvalued, filing a formal appeal could lower your annual tax burden—the median reassessment can save hundreds of dollars per year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Allen County

via CostByCounty

Allen County rents stay below national strain

Allen County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.3% sits comfortably below the national threshold where housing becomes unaffordable. Renters here spend roughly the same share of income on housing as Americans nationwide, despite earning $17,137 less than the national median income of $74,755.

Kansas affordability leader

Among Kansas counties, Allen stands out with a 14.3% rent-to-income ratio—0.4 percentage points better than the state average of 14.7%. This ranks Allen among the more affordable counties statewide, where median rents average $787 compared to the county's $685.

Cheapest rents in the region

Allen County's median rent of $685 undercuts nearby Anderson County ($792) and Atchison County ($756) by $107 and $71 monthly. Despite lower incomes than these neighbors, Allen renters enjoy the region's most affordable housing market.

How Allen County budgets housing

A typical Allen household earning $57,618 annually pays $685 for rent or $706 for a mortgage, leaving substantial income for other expenses. Homebuyers here face median values of $100,400, making purchase-to-income ratios remarkably accessible compared to state benchmarks.

Consider Allen for affordable living

If you're weighing Kansas counties for a fresh start, Allen offers rare affordability: low rents, sub-$100k home values, and minimal housing-cost burden. Compare this stability to higher-cost neighbors like Butler County before making your decision.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Allen County

via IncomeByCounty

Allen County trails national earnings

Allen County's median household income of $57,618 sits 23% below the national median of $74,755, placing it among lower-earning counties nationally. This gap reflects the rural character of much of Kansas and its economy centered on agriculture and small manufacturing.

Below average among Kansas counties

Allen County ranks below the Kansas state median of $64,428, earning about $6,810 less per household annually. The county's per capita income of $29,176 also trails the state average of $34,748.

Similar to neighboring rural counties

Allen County's $57,618 median income closely mirrors nearby Barber County ($57,615) and Brown County ($58,886), reflecting the shared rural and agricultural character of southeast Kansas. Neighboring Anderson County performs better at $64,925, suggesting stronger job diversity in that area.

Rent remains affordable for most

A rent-to-income ratio of 14.3% indicates housing costs are well-managed relative to household earnings in Allen County. With a median home value of $100,400, the county offers accessible homeownership for residents seeking to build wealth.

Build financial security locally

Allen County residents earning $57,618 can establish a solid financial foundation by targeting savings of 10-15% annually, which yields $5,761-$8,643 per year. Working with local credit unions or advisors to explore retirement accounts and home equity can help residents grow wealth despite modest income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Allen County

via CrimeByCounty

Allen County Crime Rates Exceed National Average

Allen County reports a total crime rate of 2,684.4 per 100K residents, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This activity results in a safety score of 95.8 out of 100.

Safety Score Trails Behind Kansas Average

The county's safety score of 95.8 falls below the Kansas state average of 98.0. Five local reporting agencies provide the data used to track these trends across the county.

Higher Incident Rates Than Nearby Counties

Allen County sees significantly more crime per capita than neighboring Anderson County, which reports a low rate of 884.8. It also exceeds the crime rate in Bourbon County by over 500 incidents per 100K.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

Property crime accounts for 2,222.4 incidents per 100K, nearly five times the violent crime rate of 462.0. Residents are much more likely to experience theft or burglary than a violent encounter.

Prioritize Home Security and Awareness

With property crime as the primary concern, installing motion-sensor lights and upgrading door locks can deter opportunistic thieves. Staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity helps keep the community secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Allen County

via HealthByCounty

Allen County's health gap widens

At 74.5 years, Allen County residents live nearly 6 years less than the U.S. average of 80.1 years. With 18% reporting poor or fair health—well above the national median—Allen faces significant health challenges that demand attention and resources.

Lagging behind Kansas

Allen County's 74.5-year life expectancy trails Kansas's state average of 75.4 years, placing it in the lower half of the state's health rankings. The county's 18% poor/fair health rate mirrors state struggles but suggests local factors compound broader trends.

Compared to nearby counties

Allen County's life expectancy sits between Barber County (74.2) and Butler County (75.3), with peer counties showing mixed results on provider availability. Mental health services here are stronger at 193 per 100K—exceeding Barber's 49—but primary care lags some neighbors.

Healthcare access and insurance

Just over 11% of Allen County residents lack health insurance, slightly below the state average of 11.5%, yet 64 primary care providers per 100K residents suggests unmet demand in rural areas. Mental health capacity is relatively robust, but geographic and transportation barriers may still limit care reach.

Take action on coverage

If you're among the 11% uninsured in Allen County, now is the time to explore options through the Kansas health marketplace or local community health centers. Coverage can mean earlier treatment, better outcomes, and real savings when health challenges arise.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Allen County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network of Eleven Public Schools

Allen County manages 11 public schools across three districts, serving a total of 2,456 students. The infrastructure includes three elementary, two middle, and six high schools. This distributed network ensures educational access for students across the county's primary population centers.

Evaluating Performance and Educational Investment

The county's graduation rate stands at 84.5%, trailing the state average of 88.7% and the national mark of 87%. Funding follows a similar trend, with per-pupil expenditure at $8,368 compared to the Kansas average of $9,009. The composite school score of 53.6 sits slightly below the state average but remains above the national median.

Iola and Humboldt Lead the Way

The Iola district is the county's largest, overseeing four schools and 1,207 students. Humboldt follows closely with 974 students across four facilities. Currently, there are no charter schools operating within the county, as traditional public districts manage 100% of the enrollment.

A Blend of Town and Country Learning

Seven schools operate in rural settings while four are located in town environments, reflecting the county's agricultural roots. Iola Elementary School is the largest campus with 637 students, while the average school size across the county is a modest 223 students. The presence of Humboldt Virtual Education provides a flexible high school option for 326 local learners.

Find a Home in Allen County

Homebuyers seeking a close-knit community will find stable school options in both Iola and Humboldt. The smaller class sizes and rural character make this an ideal area for families who prioritize personal attention. Consider school proximity as a key factor when exploring local real estate.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Allen County

via RiskByCounty

Allen County's natural disaster risk

Allen County scores 15.27 on the national composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and placing it well below the national average. This means residents face significantly lower exposure to major natural disasters compared to the typical U.S. county. However, tornadoes remain the most notable hazard, with a risk score of 35.27.

Among Kansas's safer counties

Allen County's composite risk score of 15.27 is less than half the Kansas state average of 29.89, ranking it among the state's lower-risk counties. This favorable standing reflects the county's distance from major wildfire corridors and relatively modest flood and earthquake exposure. The county remains a relatively safe place to live by Kansas standards.

Comparable to similar Kansas counties

Allen County's risk profile closely matches neighboring Brown County (15.33) and Atchison County (15.97), all considered Very Low risk. Anderson County and Bourbon County carry slightly higher composite scores but remain in the Very Low category. Collectively, this region of Kansas represents the state's more resilient communities.

Tornadoes your primary concern

Tornado risk is Allen County's most significant natural disaster threat at 35.27, a score that warrants preparedness but remains well below state average tornado exposure. Flood risk (26.34) and earthquake risk (28.85) pose secondary considerations. Residents should maintain a household emergency plan and know where to seek shelter during spring severe weather season.

Insurance coverage for peace of mind

Although Allen County faces below-average natural disaster risk, standard homeowners insurance often excludes flood and earthquake damage—coverage you'll want to evaluate separately with your agent. Even in low-risk counties, a single severe event can cause substantial losses, making supplemental policies a practical investment. Review your coverage annually and ensure your household has an up-to-date emergency plan.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Allen County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and wetter than the national average

Allen County maintains an annual average temperature of 56.0°F, placing it several degrees above the national median. This humid subtropical climate receives 42.2 inches of rain annually, significantly outpacing the national precipitation trend.

A warm outlier in the Sunflower State

The county's average temperature of 56.0°F is notably higher than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. Residents also experience 42.2 inches of precipitation, making it one of the wetter regions compared to the state average of 30.3 inches.

Warmer and wetter than northern neighbors

Allen County stays warmer on average than nearby Anderson County, which clocks in at 55.2°F. It also receives about one inch more annual rainfall than Anderson, reinforcing its status as a lush eastern Kansas corridor.

Hot summers with manageable winter snow

Summer heat is intense with 45 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 79.1°F. Winters remain relatively mild, seeing only 8.6 inches of snow compared to the much heavier totals found in northern Kansas.

Prepare for humidity and summer heat

Residents should prioritize high-efficiency cooling systems to manage the 45 extreme heat days each year. With over 42 inches of rain, ensuring proper home drainage and gutter maintenance is essential for the wet spring months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Allen County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic Soils Define Allen County

Allen County features an average soil pH of 6.23, which is more acidic than the state average of 6.80. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this pH level remains close to the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile provides a versatile foundation for a variety of Midwestern crops.

High Silt Content Powers Local Agriculture

The soil is comprised of 55.7% silt and 29.2% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 15.2%. This heavy silt and clay mix ensures excellent nutrient retention and stability for large-scale farming. However, the high clay fraction means the ground requires careful timing to avoid compaction during wet seasons.

Superior Organic Matter Boosts Growth

With 2.72% organic matter, Allen County exceeds both the state average of 2.22% and the national average. The available water capacity of 0.182 in/in is also slightly higher than the state benchmark. This combination creates a fertile environment that holds onto moisture effectively during dry Kansas summers.

Understanding Local Water Movement

Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are currently limited for this area. Based on the 29.2% clay content, builders and gardeners should expect moderate to slow natural drainage. On-site percolation tests are recommended before starting significant construction or landscaping projects.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6b

Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, Allen County is ideal for growing hearty staples like winter wheat and corn. The soil's high organic content also supports vibrant home vegetable gardens. Grab a trowel and take advantage of these nutrient-rich silty soils this spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Allen County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Lawn Success in Allen County

With a lawn difficulty score of 65.6, maintaining grass here is easier than both the Kansas state average of 59.1 and the national median of 50.0. This USDA Hardiness Zone 6b region provides a relatively favorable environment for residential turf. Homeowners find fewer obstacles here compared to their more arid neighbors to the west.

Abundant Rainfall Fuels Local Growth

Allen County receives a generous 42.2 inches of annual precipitation, which sits comfortably within the ideal range of 30 to 50 inches for healthy lawns. While the area experiences 45 extreme heat days annually, this is significantly lower than the state average of 58 days. The 4,207 growing degree days ensure a robust season for both cool-season and warm-season grasses.

Slightly Acidic Soils Support Healthy Roots

The local soil pH averages 6.23, placing it right in the sweet spot of the 6.0 to 7.0 ideal range for most turfgrasses. With a clay content of 29.2% and sand at 15.2%, these soils retain moisture well but may require aeration to prevent compaction. While specific drainage data is limited, the balanced pH minimizes the need for heavy lime applications.

Managing Moisture During Dry Spells

The county spent 20 weeks in drought over the past year, and currently, 100% of the area is classified as abnormally dry. Homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to maximize absorption and build root resilience. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn helps retain moisture during these persistent dry periods.

Prime Planting After the Spring Frost

In Zone 6b, Tall Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are excellent choices for reliable green cover throughout the year. The typical last spring frost occurs around April 11, making late April a safe window for spring seeding projects. Aim for fall renovation after October 27 to take advantage of cooler temperatures and consistent moisture.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Allen County's county score?
Allen County, Kansas has a composite county score of 40.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Allen County rank among counties in Kansas?
Allen County ranks #83 among all counties in Kansas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Allen County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Allen County is $1,659, with an effective tax rate of 1.65%. This earns Allen County a tax score of 8.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Allen County?
The median household income in Allen County, Kansas is $57,618 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Allen County earns an income score of 32.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Allen County, Kansas a good place to live?
Allen County scores 40.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #83 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Allen County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Allen County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.