countyscore
48.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 84.1Schools 74.3

County Report Card

About Atchison County, Kansas

Consistent with National Averages

Atchison County posts a composite score of 48.6, nearly matching the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced profile that mirrors the standard American living experience.

Aligned with the Kansas Mean

The county's performance is almost identical to the Kansas state average of 49.5. It serves as a reliable representative of the state's overall livability standards.

Clean Water and Low Natural Risk

The county is highly resilient, boasting a water score of 86.0 and a risk score of 84.1. Its educational system is another bright spot, with a school score of 74.3 that outperforms many neighbors.

Public Safety and Tax Concerns

Public safety represents the county's weakest dimension with a score of 16.8. Residents also contend with a tax score of 20.4, reflecting a tax burden that is higher than many nearby regions.

A Practical Choice for School-Aged Families

Atchison County is a solid fit for families who value quality education and reliable infrastructure in a traditional setting. While safety metrics are lower, the strong school and utility scores provide a compelling foundation for local life.

Score breakdown

Tax20.4Cost61.5Safety16.8Health59.6Schools74.3Income45.6Risk84.1Water86Weather51.5
🏛20.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼45.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤59.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓74.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡84.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.7
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

Buchanan County
Missouri
31.1
Doniphan County
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59.6
Platte County
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45.2
Jefferson County
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Leavenworth County
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Jackson County
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Brown County
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Andrew County
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Deep Dives

Atchison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Atchison County

via TaxByCounty

Atchison offers lowest tax rate

Atchison County's effective tax rate of 1.312% ranks well below the national median of 1.4%, placing it in the bottom quartile for property tax burden across America. Homeowners pay a median of $1,941 annually—29% less than the national median of $2,690—thanks to both low rates and modest home values.

Lowest-taxing county in Kansas

Atchison County boasts one of Kansas's lowest effective tax rates at 1.312%, significantly below the state average of 1.549%. At a median of $1,941, Atchison taxes are slightly below the state median of $1,943, placing it among the state's most tax-efficient counties.

Clear winner among neighbors

Atchison County's 1.312% rate is the lowest in its region—well below Allen County (1.652%), Anderson County (1.528%), and Bourbon County (1.670%). Despite having identical median home values to Anderson ($147,900), Atchison homeowners save $319 annually ($2,260 vs. $1,941) due to favorable tax rates.

Your Atchison County tax bill

A homeowner with a $147,900 property in Atchison County pays roughly $1,941 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. Mortgage-inclusive taxes reach about $1,987, while non-mortgage taxes drop to approximately $1,875.

Protect your advantage

Atchison County residents already enjoy some of Kansas's lowest tax rates, but overassessments still occur. Filing an appeal if your home's assessed value exceeds comparable local sales ensures you maintain this tax advantage year after year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Atchison County

via CostByCounty

Atchison County stays affordable nationally

At 14.6%, Atchison's rent-to-income ratio meets the national affordability standard, keeping housing costs manageable despite household incomes running $12,591 below the U.S. median. Renters here spend 14% of income on housing—well within sustainable limits.

Atchison ranks near Kansas average

Atchison County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio mirrors Kansas's state average of 14.7%, positioning it firmly in the mainstream of Kansas affordability. The county's median rent of $756 undercuts the state average of $787 by $31, offering slight savings to local renters.

Middle ground for regional housing costs

Atchison's $756 rent splits the difference between Allen County's $685 and Anderson County's $792, reflecting its position as a moderate-cost option. The county's median home value of $147,900 matches Anderson's exactly, suggesting comparable homebuying pressures.

Atchison household housing breakdown

Median Atchison households earning $62,164 invest $756 monthly in rent or $841 in mortgages, consuming roughly 14.6% and 16.2% of income respectively. Home values averaging $147,900 demand moderate down payments but remain achievable for local wage earners.

Atchison balances rent and ownership costs

Consider Atchison if you want state-average affordability without the premium prices of urban Kansas centers. The county offers balanced options across both rental and homeownership paths, making it ideal for families weighing long-term housing stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Atchison County

via IncomeByCounty

Atchison County lags national income

Atchison County's median household income of $62,164 trails the national median of $74,755 by 17%. The gap underscores the challenges rural Kansas communities face competing in a national economy increasingly driven by technology and services.

Slightly below Kansas average

Atchison County's median household income of $62,164 falls short of the state average of $64,428 by $2,264 annually. The county's per capita income of $29,910 similarly sits below the state per capita average of $34,748.

Middle of the regional pack

Atchison County's $62,164 median income sits between nearby Bourbon County ($67,555, higher) and Brown County ($58,886, lower). The moderate income position reflects the county's mix of agricultural heritage and emerging light industrial activity.

Housing costs well-balanced

A rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% demonstrates that Atchison County residents allocate a reasonable share of earnings to housing. The median home value of $147,900 remains within reach for most households earning near the county average.

Strategic planning unlocks opportunity

Atchison County households with $62,164 annual income can direct $6,216-$9,325 toward savings and wealth-building annually. Consulting with a financial advisor about tax-advantaged savings vehicles ensures residents maximize their earning potential.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Atchison County

via CrimeByCounty

Atchison County Stays Below National Crime Levels

The county reports a total crime rate of 2,256.4 per 100K, remaining slightly below the national average of 2,385.5. This results in an overall safety score of 96.4.

Safety Metrics Just Below State Average

Atchison County's safety score of 96.4 is a few points lower than the Kansas state average of 98.0. Two reporting agencies provide the data that shapes this local safety profile.

Comparing Safety with Neighboring Brown County

The crime rate in Atchison County is higher than in nearby Brown County, which sees only 1,465.3 incidents per 100K. However, it remains safer than more distant Allen County.

Property Incidents Outpace Violent Crime

Property crime is the dominant issue at 1,986.6 per 100K, compared to a violent crime rate of 269.8. Most law enforcement activity focuses on theft and larceny cases.

Secure Property to Prevent Local Theft

Since property crime is the primary risk, installing security cameras or smart doorbells provides a strong deterrent. Keeping outbuildings and garages locked can significantly reduce your risk of property loss.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Atchison County

via HealthByCounty

Atchison County reaches healthy average

At 75.9 years, Atchison County approaches the U.S. life expectancy of 80.1 years from a lower baseline, yet outperforms many rural peers. The county's 17.2% poor/fair health rate—below the national median—signals better overall population health.

Above state average lifespan

Atchison County's 75.9-year life expectancy exceeds Kansas's 75.4-year state average, placing it in the healthier half of Kansas counties. This edge reflects effective local health management and community engagement.

Strongest insured rate nearby

Atchison County boasts the lowest uninsured rate among its peers at 8.4%, compared to Allen (11.1%) and Barton (13.4%), giving residents better financial protection. With 49 primary care and 187 mental health providers per 100K, Atchison balances coverage and access well.

Leading coverage, adequate capacity

Atchison County's 8.4% uninsured rate is a bright spot—nearly 3 percentage points below the state average—meaning most residents have financial access to care. Primary care availability at 49 per 100K is modest, but strong mental health provider density of 187 per 100K supports behavioral health access.

Keep Atchison's coverage strength

With 8.4% of residents uninsured, Atchison is doing better than most, but those 8% should know that coverage options are available and affordable. Reach out to local health navigators or the Kansas marketplace to eliminate gaps.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Atchison County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Infrastructure in Atchison

Atchison County supports 2,008 students through a network of six public schools and two districts. The system includes two elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one specialized facility. This structure provides a complete K-12 pipeline for the county's growing population.

Outperforming State Standards in Graduation

Atchison County achieves a 92.7% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above the Kansas average of 88.7%. The county spends $8,730 per pupil, maintaining a competitive school score of 58.7. These metrics indicate a strong return on investment compared to national medians.

Atchison Public Schools Drive Local Education

Atchison Public Schools is the dominant district, serving 1,498 students across four distinct campuses. The Atchison County Community Schools district handles the remaining 510 students. No charter schools exist in the county, meaning all public funding stays within these two established districts.

A Mix of Town and Rural Settings

Four schools are located within town limits while two provide a more rural experience for students. Atchison Elementary is the largest school in the county, hosting 703 students in a bustling primary environment. With an average school size of 335, students benefit from diverse extracurricular options and robust peer groups.

Settle Near Top-Rated Town Schools

Atchison offers an attractive mix of historic town living and high-performing schools for prospective buyers. The high graduation rates are a strong indicator of a community that values its youth and future workforce. Explore local neighborhoods to find a home within walking distance of these vital community hubs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Atchison County

via RiskByCounty

Atchison County's below-average risk profile

Atchison County scores 15.97 on the national composite risk scale with a Very Low rating, placing it well below the U.S. average. The county experiences relatively modest exposure to major natural disasters by national standards. Tornado risk of 49.46 stands as its most prominent hazard, though it remains manageable with proper planning.

Among Kansas's lower-risk counties

Atchison County's composite risk of 15.97 is 47% below the Kansas state average of 29.89, positioning it firmly in the state's safer tier. The county's particular strength lies in low flood and earthquake risk relative to other Kansas communities. This favorable standing reflects the county's geographic and geologic advantages.

Part of northeastern Kansas's safe zone

Atchison County (15.97) ranks alongside Allen County (15.27) and Brown County (15.33) as the region's lowest-risk communities. Anderson County (17.81) nearby also maintains Very Low status. This cluster of counties in northeastern Kansas represents the state's most resilient natural disaster-prone areas.

Tornado risk requires attention

Tornadoes present Atchison County's primary natural disaster threat at a risk score of 49.46, substantially higher than the county's overall profile suggests. Wildfire risk of 72.74 is notable but less immediate to most residents than tornado preparedness. Flood risk (21.72) and earthquake exposure remain secondary concerns for county residents.

Prepare for severe weather season

Atchison County residents should prioritize tornado preparedness with an identified safe shelter space and a family emergency plan finalized before spring storms arrive. Homeowners insurance covers tornado wind damage but not flood damage, so review your policy and your property's flood zone status with your agent. Regular plan reviews ensure your household can respond quickly and safely when warnings occur.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Atchison County

via WeatherByCounty

A classic continental climate profile

Atchison County averages 54.2°F annually, aligning closely with the national median for temperate zones. The area receives 36.2 inches of precipitation, providing a consistent moisture profile throughout the year.

Cooler and snowier than the Kansas norm

The county's average temperature of 54.2°F sits just below the state average of 54.8°F. Atchison is significantly snowier than the average Kansas county, recording 16.6 inches of snowfall annually.

Warmer than northern neighbor Brown County

Atchison County is roughly 1.3 degrees warmer on average than Brown County to its northwest. Despite this, both counties share a similar risk for extreme heat, with Atchison recording 38 days over 90°F.

Brisk winters and humid July peaks

Winters are cold with a January average of 27.3°F and over 16 inches of snow. July brings relief from the chill as temperatures climb to an average of 78.4°F during the peak of summer.

Winterize early and expect snow

Residents should prioritize insulation and winter weather gear to handle the 16.6 inches of annual snow. With 38 extreme heat days, summer cooling remains a necessity even in this cooler part of the state.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Atchison County

via SoilByCounty

A Balanced Acidic Profile

Atchison County's soil shows an average pH of 6.28, sitting comfortably near the national median of 6.5. This is more acidic than the Kansas state average of 6.80 but remains within a healthy range for most regional vegetation. While specific taxonomic orders are not listed, the chemical balance supports diverse plant life.

Silty Soils Offer Great Workability

The local composition consists of 53.7% silt and 28.8% clay, providing a sturdy texture for agriculture. With only 15.7% sand, these soils are excellent at retaining nutrients and preventing rapid leaching. This mix offers a good balance between ease of tillage and structural stability.

High Moisture Retention and Rich Matter

Atchison County excels in fertility with 2.70% organic matter, significantly beating the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.184 in/in is also higher than the state benchmark. These factors combine to create a soil that resists drought and feeds crops efficiently.

Evaluating Water Flow Patterns

Detailed hydrologic and drainage class data are unavailable for this county. The high percentage of silt and clay suggests that the soil holds water well, though it may be slow to drain after heavy rains. Local landowners should monitor for standing water during the spring thaw.

Four Seasons of Growth in Zone 6a

USDA Hardiness Zone 6a allows Atchison County residents to grow everything from leafy greens to hardy fruit trees. The high organic matter in the soil provides a natural head start for any gardening project. Start your seeds today to take advantage of this premium Kansas earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Atchison County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions for Atchison Landscapes

Atchison County earns a 69.7 lawn difficulty score, significantly outperforming the state average of 59.1. As a Zone 6a region, it offers slightly cooler winters than southern Kansas while remaining very manageable for most homeowners. The high score indicates that beautiful lawns are achievable with standard maintenance routines.

Lower Heat Stress Protects Turf

Atchison enjoys a relatively cool summer with only 38 extreme heat days, far below the Kansas average of 58. Annual precipitation of 36.2 inches falls squarely within the ideal range, though it is lower than some neighboring eastern counties. This combination of moderate heat and steady rain creates a longer peak greening period.

Consistent Soil Quality Across the County

The local soil pH of 6.28 is near perfect for traditional lawn grasses, requiring very few amendments for health. The texture is defined by 28.8% clay and 15.7% sand, providing a balance of water retention and structural stability. While drainage data is not specifically categorized, the soil composition suggests a need for routine aeration to manage the clay content.

Monitoring Dry Conditions in Atchison

Despite 17 weeks of drought in the past year, only 51.4% of the county currently shows as abnormally dry. Irrigation should focus on deep watering rather than frequent light misting to encourage deep root growth. Using smart irrigation controllers can help residents adjust to the county's variable rainfall patterns.

Optimize Growth with Frost Awareness

Kentucky Bluegrass thrives in Zone 6a, especially given the county's lower heat day count. Plan your spring seeding for after the April 11 frost, or prepare for fall overseeding once the first frost arrives around October 29. These clear seasonal boundaries help ensure your grass has enough time to harden before extreme weather.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atchison County's county score?
Atchison County, Kansas has a composite county score of 48.6 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 Atchison County rank among counties in Kansas?
Atchison County ranks #64 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 Atchison County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Atchison County is $1,941, with an effective tax rate of 1.31%. This earns Atchison County a tax score of 20.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Atchison County?
The median household income in Atchison County, Kansas is $62,164 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Atchison County earns an income score of 45.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Atchison County, Kansas a good place to live?
Atchison County scores 48.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #64 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Atchison 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 Atchison County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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