countyscore
53.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 87.9Cost of Living 83.8Safety 75.3

County Report Card

About Chautauqua County, Kansas

Above the National Average

Chautauqua County scores 53.5, placing it above the national median composite of 50.0. It offers a standard of living that is slightly more competitive than the typical U.S. county.

Outperforming State Averages

The county outperforms the Kansas state average of 49.5. This positioning marks it as a solid choice for residents seeking a balance of Midwestern values and value for money.

Leading in Affordability

Cost of living is the primary draw here, with a Cost Score of 83.8 anchored by a very low median home value of $63,300. It also provides a secure environment, evidenced by a Risk Score of 87.9.

Healthcare and Utilities Gaps

Significant limitations in water quality and healthcare access are indicated by scores of 3.1 and 35.0, respectively. Additionally, a Tax Score of 9.3 reflects a high relative property tax burden.

Perfect for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Chautauqua is a perfect match for budget-conscious buyers looking for the lowest possible entry price into homeownership. It suits those who value self-sufficiency in a low-risk rural setting.

Score breakdown

Tax9.3Cost83.8Safety75.3Health35Schools57.1Income24.3Risk87.9Water3.1Weather54.9
🏛9.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠83.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼24.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡87.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧3.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤54.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.7
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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Deep Dives

Chautauqua County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Chautauqua County

via TaxByCounty

Chautauqua taxes are far below national median

At 1.599%, Chautauqua County's effective rate nearly matches the national median of 1.6%, but homeowners pay just $1,012 annually—a striking 62% less than the national median of $2,690. This gap exists because median home values here ($63,300) represent less than a quarter of the national average ($281,900).

Highest rate among similar Kansas counties

Chautauqua County's 1.599% effective rate slightly exceeds Kansas's statewide average of 1.549%, placing it in the upper tier of the state's 105 counties. The median tax of $1,012 runs 48% below Kansas's median of $1,943, reflecting the county's significantly lower property values.

Highest tax rate in the region

At 1.599%, Chautauqua County edges out Chase County (1.595%) and substantially exceeds Cheyenne County (1.402%) and Cherokee County (1.226%) in its region. Despite the highest rate, median tax bills remain competitive due to lower home values across southeast Kansas.

Budget around $1,000 per year

A Chautauqua County homeowner with a median-value home of $63,300 pays approximately $1,012 annually in property taxes. With mortgage benefits included, the effective bill rises to $1,443; without deductions, it falls to $843.

Review your assessment annually

Property values in rural Kansas have shifted significantly in recent years, and assessments often lag behind reality. File an appeal if you believe your home is overvalued—the county assessor's office can explain the process at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Chautauqua County

via CostByCounty

Chautauqua County: slightly better affordability

Renters here spend 15.7% of their $54,592 income on housing, which is above the national average but one of the better performers among rural Kansas counties. At $713/month, Chautauqua County offers some of the lowest rents in its region.

Below-average burden for Kansas

Chautauqua County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio sits below the Kansas state average of 14.7%—though the lower income levels in this rural county make it appear more affordable than it is. The county ranks as one of the more housing-affordable places in Kansas.

The most affordable rent around

At $713/month, Chautauqua County offers the lowest rent among its neighboring counties, significantly cheaper than Chase ($758), Cherokee ($801), and Cheyenne ($703). This affordability advantage is key to its lower overall rent-to-income ratio.

Balanced housing costs, modest income

Renters pay $713/month (15.7% of income), while homeowners pay $596/month on a median home value of just $63,300—the lowest in the region. Both rental and ownership options are relatively affordable, making this county accessible to lower-income households.

Chautauqua offers rural affordability

If budget is your biggest concern, Chautauqua County delivers some of Kansas's lowest housing costs without sacrificing much in quality. Compare these prices to nearby Chase and Cherokee counties to see how much you could save.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Chautauqua County

via IncomeByCounty

Chautauqua Trails National Income Average

Chautauqua County's median household income of $54,592 falls roughly $20,200 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. This gap reflects typical income patterns in rural southeastern Kansas.

Below Kansas State Average

At $54,592, Chautauqua County ranks below Kansas's median household income of $64,428 by approximately $10,000. The county remains in the lower half of Kansas's 105 counties for household earnings.

Comparable to Regional Peers

Chautauqua County's income of $54,592 nearly matches Chase County ($54,518) and sits slightly below Cherokee County ($58,274) in the region. Clark County to the northwest shows notably higher earnings at $65,515, suggesting stronger economic activity in western border areas.

Affordable Housing, Stable Living

Chautauqua County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% is among the state's lowest, indicating strong housing affordability for renters and homeowners alike. The median home value of $63,300 is particularly accessible, making homeownership achievable for most households.

Opportunity for Intentional Savings

With housing costs well-controlled, Chautauqua County households can allocate more income toward savings and investments than national averages. Starting a consistent savings plan, even with modest earnings, builds long-term wealth and financial security for residents.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Chautauqua County

via CrimeByCounty

Security Far Exceeds National Norms

Chautauqua County earns a high safety score of 99.1, indicating a very secure community. The total crime rate of 590.1 per 100,000 residents is roughly a quarter of the national average of 2,385.5. These figures demonstrate that the county is significantly safer than most areas in the United States.

A Leader in Kansas Safety

The county's safety score of 99.1 sits well above the Kansas state average of 98.0. Local law enforcement across four reporting agencies manages a crime rate of 590.1, which is less than half the state average of 1,282.2 per 100,000. Chautauqua remains one of the more secure jurisdictions in the state.

Comparing Well to Regional Peers

Chautauqua County reports a much lower crime rate than Cherokee County to the east, which faces nearly 2,000 crimes per 100,000. It also compares favorably to Coffey County, maintaining a slightly lower total crime rate of 590.1. This regional comparison highlights Chautauqua’s effective public safety environment.

Low Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime is notably rare here, occurring at a rate of just 88.5 per 100,000 residents compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of local activity at 501.6, though this remains 75% lower than the national property crime rate. Residents primarily deal with minor property issues rather than serious threats.

Maintaining a Secure Household

While crime is infrequent, staying proactive helps maintain Chautauqua's high safety standards. Simple steps like installing motion-sensor lights or smart doorbells can further reduce the risk of property crime. Consistent community awareness ensures the county remains a safe harbor for all residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Chautauqua County

via HealthByCounty

Chautauqua health lags nationally

At 74.0 years, Chautauqua County's life expectancy falls 1.7 years short of the U.S. average of 75.7 years. With 19.2% of residents reporting poor or fair health—above the national rate—the county faces notable health challenges.

Among Kansas's lower-ranked counties

Chautauqua's 74.0-year life expectancy ranks well below Kansas's 75.4-year state average, placing it in the lower tier of county health outcomes. Its 19.2% poor/fair health rate is similarly elevated compared to state norms.

Struggles relative to surrounding counties

Chautauqua's 74.0-year life expectancy trails Chase (78.0), Clay (78.2), and Coffey (76.6) counties significantly. At 19.2% poor/fair health, it ties or exceeds the worst rates among nearby peers.

Insurance and mental health access mixed

With 13.9% uninsured—above the state average of 11.5%—more Chautauqua residents lack coverage. The county does support 60 mental health providers per 100K residents, though primary care data remains unavailable.

Explore coverage options now

Chautauqua's 13.9% uninsured rate means many neighbors lack essential care access. Check the Kansas health marketplace or call a local navigator to find affordable insurance that works for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Chautauqua County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Heart of Rural Learning

Chautauqua County supports 547 students across four public schools, including two elementary and two high schools. Two distinct districts manage these facilities to provide essential education services to this rural population.

Investment in a Rural Future

With a school score of 58.5, the county outperforms the state average of 57.2. Officials spend $10,542 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the Kansas average of $9,009, despite a graduation rate of 85.0%.

Two Districts Anchoring the Community

Chautauqua County Community is the largest provider with 398 students, followed by the Cedar Vale district with 149 students. No charter schools exist here, keeping the focus on local district-run education.

Small-Scale Learning in Rural Kansas

Every school in the county is classified as rural, offering an intimate average school size of 137 students. Sedan Elementary and Sedan High are the largest hubs with 199 students each, while Cedar Vale High remains the smallest with 68.

Move Near Chautauqua Schools

If you value small school environments and above-average per-pupil spending, Chautauqua County offers a compelling case. Start your home search today to secure a spot in these dedicated rural districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Chautauqua County

via RiskByCounty

Chautauqua County faces very low national disaster risk

Chautauqua County's composite risk score of 12.12 places it well below the national average, earning a "Very Low" rating despite elevated wildfire exposure. The county's overall safety profile is strengthened by minimal flood and low tornado risk relative to many U.S. regions.

Among Kansas's lowest-risk counties

At 12.12, Chautauqua County scores far below Kansas's state average of 29.89, ranking it firmly in the safest tier statewide. This advantage is driven by low flood risk and controlled tornado exposure, despite the state's significant wildfire vulnerability.

Safer than most regional peers

Chautauqua County's score outperforms nearby Elk and Cowley Counties, which face substantially higher tornado and flood risks. Its lower composite score reflects a more favorable hazard distribution across the south-central Kansas region.

Wildfire dominates the hazard landscape

Wildfire risk reaches 90.90 in Chautauqua County, the highest score across all county hazards and a significant concern despite the county's overall low rating. Tornado risk of 44.31 represents a secondary threat, though it remains manageable compared to some neighboring areas.

Invest in wildfire and severe weather protection

Homeowners should ensure comprehensive wildfire coverage in their property insurance and maintain strong tornado and wind protections. Given Chautauqua County's concentrated wildfire exposure, fire-resistant landscaping and home hardening are prudent investments.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Chautauqua County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Wetter Than Average

At 57.3°F, Chautauqua County is notably warmer than the national median. It receives a generous 40.0 inches of annual precipitation, making it much more humid than the national average.

A Top-Tier Warm Kansas County

The county's 57.3°F average exceeds the state average of 54.8°F by nearly three degrees. This makes it one of the warmest counties in Kansas, thanks to its southern border location.

Milder Winters Than the North

Chautauqua receives 40.0 inches of rain, which is higher than Chase County’s 35.7 inches. It also sees far less snow than northern counties, averaging only 8.6 inches per year.

Long Summers and Light Snow

The county endures 58 days of extreme heat annually, with July temperatures peaking at an average of 80.1°F. Winters are among the mildest in the state, with a January average of 33.6°F.

Managing Humidity and Southern Heat

High efficiency cooling is a priority here to manage nearly 60 days of temperatures over 90°F. Gardeners can enjoy a longer growing season but must plan for heavy 40-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Chautauqua County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Foundations in the Cross Timbers

With an average pH of 6.30, Chautauqua County soils are more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.80. This acidity can influence nutrient availability, though the county's overall soil score of 63.5 remains well above the state average. Although taxonomic orders aren't specified in the data, the chemistry suggests a unique local profile.

A Rich Blend of Silt and Clay

The soil mix consists of 54.4% silt and 29.3% clay, balanced by 16.3% sand. This composition offers a good middle ground for workability, providing better drainage than neighboring heavy-clay counties while retaining enough silt for stability. It is a dense mix that supports strong root structures but requires attention to drainage.

High Organic Matter for Strong Growth

Chautauqua boasts 2.74% organic matter, outperforming the Kansas state average of 2.22%. However, its available water capacity of 0.178 in/in is just a hair below the state average of 0.180 in/in. This means while the soil is naturally rich in nutrients, it may require more frequent watering during intense Kansas summers.

Moderate Water Retention Profiles

Despite a lack of specific drainage class data, the soil's physical makeup suggests a moderate infiltration rate. The available water capacity is nearly on par with the state average, indicating reliable but not exceptional moisture storage. Gardeners should monitor for dry pockets in the upper profile during the peak of the growing season.

Warm-Season Success in Zone 7a

As part of USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Chautauqua County offers a longer growing season than much of Kansas. The slightly acidic, silty soil is perfect for berries, melons, and native timber species. Start your garden early and take advantage of the rich organic matter already present in your soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Chautauqua County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growing Conditions in the Southeast

Chautauqua County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 68.7, comfortably beating the national average of 50.0. As a Zone 7a region, it offers a slightly warmer climate than northern Kansas, providing a longer window for turf establishment. It ranks well above the state average of 59.1, indicating a favorable environment for local gardeners.

Plenty of Precipitation for Thirsty Turf

Annual precipitation reaches a generous 40.0 inches, providing more natural hydration than the state average of 30.3 inches. However, 58 extreme heat days over 90°F mean that summer evaporation rates are high. The 4,465 growing degree days signal a fast-growing season that requires a consistent mowing schedule from April through October.

Ideal pH for Nutrient Absorption

The soil pH of 6.30 is nearly perfect for standard lawn grasses, ensuring fertilizer applications are effective. The soil contains 29.3% clay and 16.3% sand, offering a better balance for drainage than many neighboring counties. While drainage class data is limited, this texture generally supports healthy root development without excessive pooling.

Managing 100% Abnormally Dry Conditions

Despite 40 inches of rain, the entire county is currently classified as abnormally dry (D0). Over the past year, the area experienced 11 weeks of drought, necessitating a more proactive watering plan. Focus on evening or early morning irrigation to maximize water retention during these dry spells.

Warm-Season Success in Zone 7a

The warmer Zone 7a climate makes heat-tolerant grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia great options alongside traditional Tall Fescue. Wait until after the last frost on April 9 to start new projects, and aim for fall seeding before the October 27 frost date. Your lawn has a strong foundation here, so start early for the best results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chautauqua County's county score?
Chautauqua County, Kansas has a composite county score of 53.5 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 Chautauqua County rank among counties in Kansas?
Chautauqua County ranks #42 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 Chautauqua County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Chautauqua County is $1,012, with an effective tax rate of 1.60%. This earns Chautauqua County a tax score of 9.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Chautauqua County?
The median household income in Chautauqua County, Kansas is $54,592 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Chautauqua County earns an income score of 24.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Chautauqua County, Kansas a good place to live?
Chautauqua County scores 53.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #42 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Chautauqua 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 Chautauqua 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.