countyscore
33.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.4Soil Quality 69.9Health 69.6

County Report Card

About Cass County, Missouri

Trailing the National Living Standard

Cass County struggles with a composite score of 33.2, which falls well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects significant downward pressure from high costs and local safety concerns. It ranks in the lower tier of counties nationally despite its high household earnings.

A Challenging Profile within Missouri

At 33.2, Cass County sits far below the Missouri state average of 50.3. While it serves as a major suburban hub, it faces more volatility than many of its rural counterparts. The county must reconcile its high individual wealth with its lagging community safety and school metrics.

High Earnings and Quality Healthcare

The county's primary strength lies in its income score of 90.4, with a median household income of $87,413. Health services are also a bright spot, earning a score of 69.6. Residents here have the financial means to access better-than-average medical care.

Urgent Needs in Safety and Cost

Safety is a critical concern, reflected in a near-zero score of 0.1. This is compounded by an affordability crisis, with a cost score of only 16.0 and a median gross rent of $1,147. Additionally, environmental risk and low school scores further dampen the overall livability profile.

A Choice for Prosperous Commuters

Cass County is best suited for high-earning professionals who work in the Kansas City metro but want suburban space. While costs and safety scores are tough, the high median income allows for a lifestyle that many of its neighbors cannot afford. It is a county for those who prioritize their own earning potential over community-wide metrics.

Score breakdown

Tax46.8Cost16Safety0.1Health69.6Schools27.9Income90.4Risk25.1Water37.1Weather55.6
🏛46.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠16
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡0.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓27.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡25.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧37.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨69.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.7
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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Counties with similar scores

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Jackson County
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Bolivar County
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Essex County
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Washington County
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Nearby counties

Bates County
Missouri
45.2
Johnson County
Missouri
44.9
Miami County
Kansas
44.4
Jackson County
Missouri
35.7
Henry County
Missouri
44.5
Johnson County
Kansas
42
Linn County
Kansas
56.6
Wyandotte County
Kansas
37.4

Deep Dives

Cass County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cass County

via TaxByCounty

Cass taxes match the national median

Cass County's effective tax rate of 0.879% nearly mirrors the national median of 0.93%, making it an average tax jurisdiction for America. With a median tax bill of $2,364 on a $269,000 home, Cass homeowners pay slightly below the national median of $2,690.

Above average for Missouri

Cass County ranks in the upper third of Missouri's 114 counties with an effective rate of 0.879%, well above the state average of 0.733%. Its median tax bill of $2,364 almost doubles Missouri's median of $1,199, reflecting both higher home values and a higher tax rate.

The highest rate in its region

Cass County's 0.879% rate tops all nearby counties: Carroll (0.844%), Cedar (0.587%), and Christian (0.752%). Only Clark County (0.969%) and Clay County (1.099%) exceed Cass in the broader state comparison.

Over $2,300 annually on typical home

A typical Cass County homeowner with a $269,000 property pays $2,364 in annual property tax, or about $197 per month. With a mortgage, escrow increases that to $2,451 as it bundles insurance and other levies.

High rates make appeals especially valuable

In higher-tax counties like Cass, even a small reduction in your assessed value can save hundreds of dollars annually. If you believe your property is overassessed relative to comparable recent sales, a formal appeal is worth your time—it's free and could yield real savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cass County

via CostByCounty

Cass County's premium housing on solid income

Cass County residents earn a median of $87,413, roughly 17% above the national median of $74,755, yet their 15.8% rent-to-income ratio stays near national norms. This favorable affordability picture reflects Cass's position as one of Missouri's wealthier counties, supporting higher rents and home values without severe budget strain.

High income buffers Cass's premium housing costs

While Cass County's median rent of $1,147 far exceeds Missouri's $768 state average, its rent-to-income ratio of 15.8% holds just above the state's 15.6%, thanks to incomes that also exceed state norms. Cass stands out as a higher-cost but also higher-income pocket of the state.

Kansas City's prosperous suburban outpost

Cass County commands significantly higher rents ($1,147) than rural peers like Carroll ($785) or Cedar ($783), approaching Clay County's $1,220. Its median home value of $269,000 similarly exceeds surrounding counties, reflecting Cass's role as a desirable suburban community.

Premium costs, premium incomes balance out

On a median income of $87,413, Cass residents allocate $1,147 monthly to rent (15.8%) or $1,308 to mortgage payments. These higher absolute costs are sustainable precisely because median incomes far exceed state and national averages.

Cass suits higher-earning relocators

If your household income exceeds $80,000, Cass County offers premium suburban living with manageable affordability ratios and strong schools. Compare Cass's $1,147 rent against your income—it aligns well with dual-earning professional households seeking Kansas City-area access.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cass County

via IncomeByCounty

Cass County exceeds national income

Cass County's median household income of $87,413 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $12,658—a 17% advantage. This ranks the county in the top quartile nationally and reflects the strong economic pull of Kansas City's suburbs.

Missouri's most prosperous county

Cass County leads Missouri with median household income of $87,413, towering $27,910 above the state average of $59,503. The county's per capita income of $41,075 also ranks at the state's top, indicating broad-based wealth.

Clear leader in region

Cass County ($87,413) significantly outpaces all peer counties, with only Clay County ($86,150) approaching its prosperity. The $1,263 gap reflects Cass's edge as Kansas City's premier suburban destination for affluent families.

Housing affordable despite high prices

At 15.8% of income spent on rent, Cass County households enjoy solid affordability even as median home values reach $269,000. The county's above-average incomes comfortably support homeownership and wealth accumulation.

Leverage income for compound growth

With robust household income, Cass County families can maximize retirement contributions, diversify investment portfolios, and build significant home equity. Strategic tax planning and estate management become accessible tools for generational wealth creation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cass County

via CrimeByCounty

Cass County faces significant safety challenges

The total crime rate in Cass County reaches 33,157.5 per 100K, which is nearly 14 times the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, the county receives a safety score of 47.6 out of 100.

Falling behind Missouri safety benchmarks

The county's safety score of 47.6 is drastically lower than the Missouri state average of 97.0. Local law enforcement agencies report crime at levels far exceeding the state's average total rate of 1,926.2.

Higher crime rates than regional neighbors

Cass County reports much higher crime activity than neighboring Christian County, which sits at 13,278.1 per 100K. This makes Cass a significant outlier for crime density within the region.

Extremely high property and violent crime

Property crime is the primary driver of these figures, occurring at a staggering rate of 25,787.2 per 100K. Violent crime is also highly elevated at 7,370.3, compared to the national average of just 369.8.

Prioritize comprehensive home protection

Given the high property crime rates, professional security monitoring is a vital investment for Cass County homeowners. Ensure all entry points are reinforced and valuables are kept out of sight from windows.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cass County

via HealthByCounty

Cass County: Missouri's health leader

At 77.0 years, Cass County residents live 2.5 years longer than the U.S. average of 74.5 years, a substantial longevity advantage. The county's 14.8% poor or fair health rate significantly outperforms the national average of 21%, with residents enjoying notably healthier lives.

Among Missouri's healthiest communities

Cass County ranks in Missouri's top tier for health outcomes, with a life expectancy of 77.0 years—2.7 years above the state average of 74.3 years. The county's 14.8% poor/fair health rating is well below Missouri's median, marking it as a model for community health.

Regional health leader by wide margin

Cass County's 77.0-year life expectancy exceeds all neighboring counties, including Christian (77.2 years, tied) and Cedar (74.7 years). At 14.8% poor/fair health, Cass outperforms every comparable peer, establishing itself as a regional health standout.

Strong insurance coverage, accessible care

Cass County's uninsured rate of 8.9% is notably below Missouri's 12.5% average, meaning most residents have healthcare coverage. The county provides 25 primary care providers and 141 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, ensuring residents have pathways to both preventive and behavioral healthcare.

Keep your coverage strong

Cass County's low uninsured rate reflects strong community health engagement—if you're uninsured or underinsured, visiting healthcare.gov takes just 15 minutes. Maintaining continuous coverage protects your health and your wallet.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cass County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large, Diverse Network of Forty-Three Schools

Cass County features a robust educational infrastructure with 43 public schools serving 17,475 students across 10 districts. The network is well-balanced with 22 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 9 high schools. This large system also includes specialized alternative and special education facilities to meet diverse needs.

Growing Pains and Spending Challenges

The county maintains an 89.6% graduation rate, which is higher than the national average but below the Missouri state average. Per-pupil expenditure is lower than both state and national marks at $5,708, contributing to a school score of 50.5. These figures suggest a system managing high enrollment with leaner budgets than its neighbors.

Raymore-Peculiar and Belton Drive Enrollment

Raymore-Peculiar R-II is the county's largest district, serving 6,377 students across 11 schools. Belton 124 follows with 4,342 students in 8 schools, reflecting the suburban growth of the northern county area. No charter schools are currently operating within the county’s 10 districts.

Suburban Reach and High-School Hubs

The locale mix is diverse, with 16 suburban, 15 rural, and 12 town-based schools. Schools are larger here, averaging 416 students, and Raymore-Peculiar Sr. High is a major hub with 2,091 students. This variety allows families to choose between bustling suburban campuses and smaller rural settings.

Strategic Living Near Top Suburban Districts

Cass County offers a wide range of home-buying options near some of the region's fastest-growing schools. Investing in a home near the Raymore or Belton districts puts families in the heart of the county's academic centers. The graduation rates above the national average make this a compelling area for long-term residency.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cass County

via RiskByCounty

Cass County faces elevated risk

Cass County's composite risk score of 74.90 places it well above Missouri's state average of 50.56, earning a Relatively Low national rating but with notably higher exposure. The county's tornado risk of 89.85 is particularly severe, ranking among the state's most tornado-prone areas.

High-risk tornado zone

Cass County ranks in Missouri's higher-risk tier, driven primarily by its extreme tornado vulnerability of 89.85. Few Missouri counties face comparable spring storm intensity, making severe weather the dominant concern for residents.

Tornado risk stands out

Cass County's 89.85 tornado score substantially exceeds nearby Carroll County (56.84), Cedar County (63.30), and Chariton County (50.64). Flooding (70.55) and earthquake (54.36) risks remain moderate, but tornadoes drive the county's overall exposure profile.

Severe tornadoes, flooding threats

Tornadoes pose an extreme threat with an 89.85 risk score—the highest hazard facing Cass County residents. Flooding (70.55) compounds spring risks, particularly near creeks and low-lying property, making dual preparation essential.

Tornado readiness saves lives

With 89.85 tornado risk, underground or interior safe rooms are critical investments; ensure your homeowners policy covers wind and hail damage with adequate limits. Maintain a storm kit and evacuation plan, and monitor spring weather forecasts vigilantly from March through June.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cass County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Midwest Temperature Profile

Cass County's 55.2°F average temperature is just above the national median. It sits in a transition zone that sees both sharp cold fronts and warm southern breezes.

Matches Missouri’s State Averages

The county matches the Missouri state average temperature of 54.9°F almost perfectly. Its 42.7 inches of rain also falls right in line with the state norm of 43.8 inches.

Warmer Than Northern Neighbors

Cass is warmer and wetter than Caldwell County to the north. Its climate profile is very similar to Boone County in the central part of the state.

Chilly Winters and Hot Summers

Winters bring a 32.7°F average and 16.8 inches of snow. Summers feature 37 days of extreme heat with a July average of 78.4°F.

Prepare for Steady Snowfall

Residents should maintain reliable snow removal equipment for the 16.8 inches of annual snow. High-performance HVAC is needed to handle 37 days of 90-degree heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cass County

via SoilByCounty

A Stable Base in Cass

Cass County maintains an average pH of 6.21, which sits comfortably between the Missouri state average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity level provides a versatile foundation for a wide range of plant life.

The Power of Silt

Silt dominates the landscape at 60.7%, paired with 26.2% clay and a low 12.4% sand content. This mix creates a smooth, heavy soil that excels at holding onto vital nutrients but can be slow to dry after a spring rain.

Excellent Moisture Storage

The available water capacity is 0.200 in/in, significantly higher than the Missouri average of 0.183 in/in. While the 2.70% organic matter is lower than the state average, the high water retention makes it very resilient during dry spells.

Adaptable Hydrology Potential

While specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are limited for this county, the high silt and clay percentages suggest a need for surface management. The soil score of 69.9 indicates high overall quality for diverse agricultural uses.

Start Your Garden in 6b

Hardiness Zone 6b allows for a great variety of perennials and hardy vegetables. Utilize this high-capacity soil to grow deep-rooted crops like tomatoes and peppers that benefit from the steady moisture levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cass County

via LawnByCounty

Steady success in the Kansas City suburbs

Cass County earns a respectable lawn difficulty score of 66.7, outperforming both the national median and the Missouri state average. Situated in Zone 6b, the area provides a reliable climate for residential turf. It is an approachable environment for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Abundant rain fuels a long growing season

The county enjoys 42.7 inches of annual precipitation, which is nearly perfect for maintaining active growth. With 4088 growing degree days and 37 extreme heat days, the climate mirrors the state average closely. This balance supports vigorous grass growth from early spring through the late autumn months.

Balanced clay content supports moisture retention

Soil pH in Cass County averages 6.21, falling neatly within the 6.0-7.0 range required for healthy grass. The soil contains 26.2% clay, which helps the ground hold onto nutrients and moisture during the summer. While specific drainage data is limited, the high clay content suggests that regular aeration prevents compaction.

Manageable dry spells require consistent monitoring

The county saw 22 weeks of drought over the past year, and the entire area is currently classified as abnormally dry. However, no severe drought is presently recorded, which makes recovery much easier for local lawns. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn can help retain soil moisture during these dry periods.

Time your seeding for early April

Hardiness Zone 6b is perfect for Tall Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass blends. The last spring frost typically hits around April 8, while the first fall frost arrives October 29. These dates provide a wide window for seeding or installing new sod successfully.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cass County's county score?
Cass County, Missouri has a composite county score of 33.2 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 Cass County rank among counties in Missouri?
Cass County ranks #112 among all counties in Missouri 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 Cass County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Cass County is $2,364, with an effective tax rate of 0.88%. This earns Cass County a tax score of 46.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cass County?
The median household income in Cass County, Missouri is $87,413 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cass County earns an income score of 90.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cass County, Missouri a good place to live?
Cass County scores 33.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #112 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Cass 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 Cass County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.