countyscore
54.9
County Score
Disaster Risk 91.6Water Quality 86Cost of Living 80

County Report Card

About Cheyenne County, Kansas

A Strong National Competitor

Cheyenne County secures a composite score of 54.9, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high-functioning rural community with strong foundations.

Regional Leader in Kansas

It exceeds the Kansas average of 49.5, positioning itself as a leader among the state's western border counties. The high overall ranking makes it a regional standout for quality of life.

Resilient Infrastructure and Cost

The county boasts exceptional scores in environmental safety and infrastructure, including a Risk Score of 91.6 and a Water Score of 86.0. Living here is also highly affordable, with a median rent of just $703.

Economic Growth Potential

Economic metrics lag slightly, with an Income Score of 27.1 and a Tax Score of 17.2. The median household income of $55,765 is lower than more urbanized regions of the state.

Best for Environmental Stability

Cheyenne County is a top pick for families seeking environmental stability and excellent water quality. It offers a secure, traditional lifestyle for those not dependent on high-growth corporate job markets.

Score breakdown

Tax17.2Cost80Safety54.5Health46.1Schools65.5Income27.1Risk91.6Water86Weather36.3
🏛17.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡54.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.7
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

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73.1
Sherman County
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35.4
Rawlins County
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58
Yuma County
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Deep Dives

Cheyenne County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cheyenne County

via TaxByCounty

Cheyenne County taxes well below national median

At 1.402%, Cheyenne County's effective tax rate runs slightly below the national median of 1.6%. Homeowners pay $1,673 annually—38% less than the national median of $2,690—because median home values of $119,300 remain well under the national average of $281,900.

Below-average rate for Kansas

Cheyenne County's 1.402% effective rate sits below Kansas's statewide average of 1.549%, placing it in the lower-tax tier among the state's 105 counties. The median tax bill of $1,673 runs 14% below the state median of $1,943.

Lowest rate in the southwest region

At 1.402%, Cheyenne County offers the region's lowest effective tax rate, beating Chase County (1.595%), Chautauqua County (1.599%), and Rawlins County nearby. Its $1,673 median tax bill places it solidly in the middle for the area's property values.

Expect a $1,673 annual bill

A Cheyenne County homeowner with a median-value property of $119,300 pays approximately $1,673 per year in property taxes. With mortgage deductions, that rises to $1,637; without them, it increases slightly to $1,684.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Kansas property assessments are typically reviewed every four years, meaning your home's current value may not reflect recent market shifts. If you believe you're overtaxed, submit a formal assessment appeal—it's free and can provide meaningful savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cheyenne County

via CostByCounty

Cheyenne County: closer to national norms

At 15.1%, Cheyenne County's rent-to-income ratio sits above the national average of 14.7% but near the Kansas state average of 14.7%. The $703/month rent is affordable, but lower-than-average incomes ($55,765) keep housing burden elevated.

Slightly above Kansas average burden

Cheyenne County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio is marginally higher than the Kansas state average of 14.7%, making it a middle-of-the-pack option statewide. The county offers one of the lower rents in Kansas but limited income opportunities keep relative affordability modest.

Competitive with neighboring counties

Cheyenne County's $703 rent is nearly identical to Cloud County ($689) and significantly cheaper than Chase ($758) or Cherokee ($801). On affordability ratios, it's competitive with most neighboring rural counties.

Low rent, but modest incomes matter

Renters pay $703/month (15.1% of $55,765 income), while homeowners pay $668/month on homes valued at $119,300—the second-highest in the region. Despite lower rents, income constraints keep affordability challenges present for renters.

Consider Cheyenne for balanced housing

Cheyenne County offers reasonable rent prices and the second-highest home values among rural neighbors, suggesting housing stock quality. If affordability is key, compare with Chautauqua or Cloud counties; if equity potential matters, the higher home values here are worth considering.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cheyenne County

via IncomeByCounty

Cheyenne County Below National Median

Cheyenne County's median household income of $55,765 falls about $19,000 below the national median of $74,755, ranking it in the lower third of U.S. counties. This income profile is typical for agricultural and small-town Kansas counties.

Below Kansas State Average

At $55,765, Cheyenne County trails Kansas's median household income of $64,428 by roughly $8,700. The county ranks below the state median but performs better than several nearby southeastern peers.

Mid-Range Earnings for Region

Cheyenne County's income of $55,765 sits above Chase County ($54,518) and Chautauqua County ($54,592), but below Cherokee County ($58,274) and significantly below Coffey County ($67,377). Income levels here reflect a transition zone between rural southeast and central Kansas.

Very Affordable Housing Market

Cheyenne County boasts one of the state's lowest rent-to-income ratios at 15.1%, well below the 30% affordability threshold. The median home value of $119,300 remains reasonably priced relative to local incomes, though it's the highest in the immediate region.

Strong Foundation for Savings

With housing costs taking only 15% of median income, Cheyenne County residents have substantial opportunity to build emergency reserves and invest for retirement. Financial literacy workshops and low-fee investment options can help residents make the most of their savings capacity.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cheyenne County

via CrimeByCounty

Well-Protected Rural Community

Cheyenne County maintains a strong safety score of 98.4, signaling a secure living environment. Its total crime rate of 1,031.0 per 100,000 residents is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This low rate reflects the typical safety advantages found in rural Kansas counties.

Exceeding the State Safety Average

With a safety score of 98.4, Cheyenne County slightly outperforms the Kansas average score of 98.0. The total crime rate of 1,031.0 also sits comfortably below the statewide average of 1,282.2. A single law enforcement agency provides these figures, suggesting a centralized approach to local public safety.

Consistent Performance with Neighbors

Cheyenne County’s crime rate of 1,031.0 is significantly lower than that of Cloud County, which sees over 2,500 crimes per 100,000. It is more in line with neighboring agricultural counties that prioritize community-led safety. These figures indicate that Cheyenne remains a relatively quiet corner of the state.

Analyzing Property and Violent Crime

Property crime represents 763.7 incidents per 100,000, while violent crime is reported at 267.3. While the violent crime rate is higher than the state average of 235.9, it remains well below the national mark of 369.8. Residents should interpret these single-agency numbers with the understanding that small populations can cause rates to shift based on few incidents.

Safeguarding Your Property

Residents can maintain this high level of safety by practicing common-sense security, such as locking doors and windows. Since property crime is the most frequent issue, securing tools and equipment is a smart precaution. Local awareness and reporting suspicious activity help keep Cheyenne County secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cheyenne County

via HealthByCounty

Cheyenne holds its own nationally

At 76.4 years, Cheyenne County residents live 0.7 years above the U.S. average of 75.7 years. With 17.7% reporting poor or fair health—slightly below national rates—the county maintains solid health standing.

Above-average health for Kansas

Cheyenne's 76.4-year life expectancy exceeds Kansas's 75.4-year average, placing the county among the state's healthier jurisdictions. Its 17.7% poor/fair health rate also runs below the state trend.

Strong performer among peers

Cheyenne's 76.4-year life expectancy ranks above Cherokee (72.1), Chautauqua (74.0), and Cloud (73.4), positioning it as a regional health leader. Its 17.7% poor/fair rate is also among the best nearby.

Higher uninsured rate, good mental health

At 15.0% uninsured, Cheyenne exceeds the state average of 11.5%, indicating a coverage gap for residents. The county compensates with 152 mental health providers per 100K, though primary care provider data is limited.

Close the coverage gap

With 15.0% of Cheyenne residents uninsured—the highest rate we're tracking—access to care is at risk. Visit the Kansas health marketplace today to sign up and protect your family's health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cheyenne County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Schools, Big Results

Cheyenne County supports 465 students through four public schools split between two districts. The infrastructure includes two elementary schools and two high schools serving the county's rural communities.

Leading the State in Outcomes

Cheyenne County boasts a 90.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending sits at $9,216, which is higher than the Kansas state average of $9,009.

Local District Leadership

St Francis Community Schools is the larger of the two districts, enrolling 304 students. No charter schools are available in the county, emphasizing a commitment to local traditional public education.

The Intimacy of Rural Classrooms

All four schools are located in rural areas, maintaining an average school size of only 116 students. St Francis Elementary is the largest school with 155 students, while Cheylin Jr/Sr High is the smallest with 70.

Find Your Community in Cheyenne

For families who prioritize high graduation rates and small class sizes, this county offers an ideal setting. Explore homes near these high-performing rural districts to give your children a focused education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cheyenne County

via RiskByCounty

Cheyenne County ranks among lowest-risk U.S. counties

Cheyenne County's composite risk score of 8.40 places it at the very bottom of the national disaster risk distribution, earning a "Very Low" rating. The county's northwestern Kansas location and landscape result in minimal exposure to most major natural hazards.

Kansas's safest counties

At 8.40, Cheyenne County scores dramatically below Kansas's state average of 29.89, ranking among the top safest communities statewide. This exceptional safety profile reflects consistently low risk across flood, tornado, and earthquake categories.

Safer than all immediate neighbors

Cheyenne County's risk score significantly outperforms bordering Sherman and Thomas Counties, which face higher wildfire and tornado exposure. Its high plains location provides natural protection from many severe weather events affecting adjacent regions.

Wildfire represents primary concern

Wildfire risk scores 62.95 in Cheyenne County, making it the dominant hazard despite the county's overall very low composite risk. Tornado exposure at 35.34 remains low compared to state and national benchmarks.

Standard coverage with wildfire attention

Homeowners should maintain basic property insurance with explicit wildfire and wind coverage to address the county's primary threats. The low overall risk profile means comprehensive disaster insurance is less critical than in many other Kansas regions.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cheyenne County

via WeatherByCounty

High Plains and Dry Air

Cheyenne County is cooler and drier than the national median, with an average temperature of 52.0°F. It receives only 18.3 inches of precipitation, characterizing it as a semi-arid climate.

Kansas's Cool Northwest Frontier

The county is much cooler than the 54.8°F state average. Its 18.3 inches of rain is nearly 12 inches below the state-wide average, reflecting its high-altitude western position.

The Snow King of the Region

Cheyenne is the snowiest county in this set, averaging 23.8 inches—nearly double the amount seen in Clark County. It is also significantly drier than any central or eastern Kansas neighbor.

Drastic Swings and Heavy Snow

Despite a cooler annual average, high-altitude sun creates 61 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are harsh, with a January average of 29.4°F and frequent snowstorms.

Gear Up for Serious Winter

Winter preparedness is essential, as residents must manage nearly two feet of annual snowfall. High-performance home insulation is a must for the 30.5°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cheyenne County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Plains in the High West

Cheyenne County soils are significantly alkaline, with an average pH of 7.53 compared to the national median of 6.5. This high pH is common in arid regions where minerals don't leach away as quickly. The county's soil score of 36.7 reflects the challenges of farming in a semi-arid climate compared to the state average of 55.4.

Sandy Foundations and Light Texture

The composition is a balanced 40.0% sand and 42.3% silt, with a low clay content of 17.7%. This light texture allows for easy workability and prevents the 'heavy' feel of eastern Kansas mud. However, the high sand content means nutrients can wash through the soil more quickly.

Modest Organic Matter, High Water Storage

Organic matter is low at 1.48%, falling short of the state average of 2.22% and the national 2.0% benchmark. Interestingly, the available water capacity hits the state average exactly at 0.180 in/in. This indicates that while the soil is lean on nutrients, it is quite efficient at holding onto the precious rainfall it receives.

Predictable Water Movement for Drylands

While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high 40% sand content typically ensures quick infiltration. The soil's ability to hold 0.180 inches of water per inch of depth is crucial for dryland farming success in the High Plains. Careful management of surface cover is essential to prevent wind erosion in these lighter soils.

Resilient Gardening in Zone 6a

In Zone 6a, Cheyenne County gardeners should focus on drought-tolerant species and alkaline-loving plants. Wheat and grain sorghum thrive here, but home gardeners will find success with peppers, beans, and herbs like lavender. Use mulch to protect the 1.48% organic matter and conserve every drop of moisture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cheyenne County

via LawnByCounty

Low Precipitation Challenges Cheyenne Lawns

Cheyenne County faces significant difficulty with a score of 47.7, falling below both the state and national averages. Located in the cooler Zone 6a, the county deals with a much drier and more alkaline environment than eastern Kansas. Success here requires a shift toward xeric-friendly lawn practices.

Navigating High Heat and Low Rain

With only 18.3 inches of annual precipitation, lawns here receive far less than the ideal 30-50 inches. Residents must manage 61 extreme heat days, which is higher than the state average, placing extra stress on cool-season grasses. A shorter growing window is dictated by the 3,401 growing degree days and earlier fall frosts.

Managing Sandy, Alkaline Soil Foundation

The soil pH of 7.53 is quite alkaline, which can limit the availability of some nutrients to traditional turf. High sand content at 40.0% means water drains very quickly, making frequent, light watering necessary. Consider sulfur amendments to lower the pH and improve the health of your grass.

Adapting to Constant Water Scarcity

The entire county is currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions, following 14 weeks of drought in the past year. In this arid climate, every drop counts toward maintaining a green space. Focus on drought-tolerant species and limit watering to early morning hours to combat the high evaporation rates.

Buffalograss and Blue Grama Recommendations

Buffalograss is a superior native choice for this Zone 6a climate, requiring significantly less water than fescue. Wait for the soil to warm after the April 30 frost before seeding, and keep an eye on the early October 10 frost date. If you prefer traditional turf, prepare for a rigorous irrigation schedule to overcome the sandy soil.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheyenne County's county score?
Cheyenne County, Kansas has a composite county score of 54.9 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 Cheyenne County rank among counties in Kansas?
Cheyenne County ranks #36 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 Cheyenne County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Cheyenne County is $1,673, with an effective tax rate of 1.40%. This earns Cheyenne County a tax score of 17.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cheyenne County?
The median household income in Cheyenne County, Kansas is $55,765 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cheyenne County earns an income score of 27.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cheyenne County, Kansas a good place to live?
Cheyenne County scores 54.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #36 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Cheyenne 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 Cheyenne 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.