countyscore
49
County Score
Disaster Risk 92.9Cost of Living 69.4Schools 66

County Report Card

About Clark County, Kansas

Matching the National Pulse

Clark County's score of 49.0 sits just below the national median of 50.0. It offers a quality of life that is roughly comparable to the average American county.

Consistent with Kansas Norms

The county almost matches the Kansas state average of 49.5. While it provides competitive schools, it faces specific fiscal pressures that affect its overall ranking.

Low Risk, High Resilience

Its Risk Score of 92.9 is one of the best in the region, indicating very low exposure to natural disasters. It also features decent incomes for the area, with a median of $65,515.

High Relative Tax Burden

The tax environment is the biggest hurdle, with a Tax Score of 2.7 and a high effective rate of 2.054%. Safety and water quality scores also sit below the national average.

Ideal for Established Families

Clark County is well-suited for established families who value strong local schools and low natural risk. Prospective residents should be prepared for higher-than-average property tax bills.

Score breakdown

Tax2.7Cost69.4Safety36.7Health57.5Schools66Income56Risk92.9Water30.7Weather45.8
🏛2.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠69.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼56
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡36.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤57.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡92.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧30.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨34.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.1
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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49.1

Nearby counties

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58.8
Comanche County
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Ford County
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33.1
Meade County
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Kiowa County
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Edwards County
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Deep Dives

Clark County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clark County

via TaxByCounty

Clark County has the state's highest tax rate

At 2.054%, Clark County's effective tax rate significantly exceeds both the national median (1.6%) and Kansas average (1.549%), marking it as one of the state's priciest counties by rate. Homeowners pay $1,610 annually, 40% below the national median of $2,690, because homes average just $78,400.

Among Kansas's highest effective rates

Clark County's 2.054% effective rate ranks among the highest in Kansas, substantially above the state average of 1.549%. The median tax of $1,610 sits 17% below the state median of $1,943, but the high rate means homeowners pay more per dollar of property value.

Significantly higher than region peers

Clark County's 2.054% rate towers over neighboring counties like Comanche (1.60%), Kiowa (1.49%), and Meade (1.56%), making it the highest-taxed county in southwest Kansas. Despite lower property values, the elevated rate results in one of the region's steeper effective tax burdens.

Budget roughly $1,610 annually

A Clark County homeowner with a median-value property of $78,400 pays approximately $1,610 per year in property taxes. With mortgage-related credits, the bill climbs to $1,758; without deductions, it falls to $1,426.

High rates make appeals especially valuable

With the state's highest effective tax rate, Clark County homeowners benefit most from challenging potentially inflated assessments. Request your property's full assessment details from the county, compare it to similar recent sales, and file an appeal if values don't align.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clark County

via CostByCounty

Clark County: best affordability in region

Clark County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all eight counties and just below the national average of 14.7%, thanks to the highest median income in this county group at $65,515. The $771/month rent remains affordable without sacrificing income potential.

Below-average burden for Kansas

At 14.1%, Clark County's rent-to-income ratio is below Kansas's 14.7% state average—the only county in this region achieving that distinction. This favorable position stems from both reasonable rents and the area's strongest income levels.

Strong economics and reasonable rents

Clark County's $771/month rent is moderate compared to neighbors, but its 14.1% affordability ratio is best-in-class due to higher incomes than surrounding counties. The combination of decent wages and reasonable housing costs makes this the most balanced market in the group.

Income advantage drives affordability

Renters spend $771/month (14.1% of $65,515 income), while homeowners pay $702/month on homes valued at $78,400. Clark County's higher income levels make housing costs feel lighter despite rents that aren't the absolute lowest in the region.

Clark County rewards job seekers

If you can secure employment with decent wages, Clark County delivers the best housing affordability in this region—your income will stretch further here than almost anywhere else nearby. The combination of reasonable rents and stronger income opportunities makes it a smart relocation choice.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clark County

via IncomeByCounty

Clark County Near National Average

Clark County's median household income of $65,515 approaches the national median of $74,755, falling short by roughly $9,200. The county ranks in the middle of U.S. counties, performing better than most rural areas nationally.

Above Kansas State Average

At $65,515, Clark County exceeds Kansas's state median household income of $64,428 by over $1,000. The county ranks in the upper half of Kansas's 105 counties, positioning it among the stronger-earning areas in the state.

Economic Leader in Southwest Kansas

Clark County's median income of $65,515 significantly outpaces nearby Cheyenne County ($55,765), Chase County ($54,518), and Chautauqua County ($54,592). Among the eight-county region analyzed, only Coffey County ($67,377) and Clay County ($63,136) earn more.

Excellent Housing Affordability

Clark County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.1% is among the state's best, indicating strong household purchasing power for housing. The median home value of $78,400 is the lowest in the region, making homeownership highly accessible.

Prime Territory for Wealth Building

With above-average incomes and the region's most affordable housing, Clark County residents have exceptional capacity to invest surplus funds. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions, opening Roth IRAs, or consulting a financial advisor about diversified investment strategies suited to your risk tolerance.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clark County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong National Safety Standing

Clark County reports a safety score of 97.7, reflecting a community that is safer than the majority of the country. Its total crime rate of 1,466.9 per 100,000 residents is roughly 38% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These numbers highlight a generally secure environment for families and businesses.

Tracking Close to State Averages

The county's safety score of 97.7 is nearly identical to the Kansas state average of 98.0. However, the total crime rate of 1,466.9 is slightly higher than the state average of 1,282.2. As a single-agency county, these statistics offer a focused look at local law enforcement activity.

Safe Relative to Regional Peaks

Compared to Cloud County's high rate of 2,597.6, Clark County remains a much more secure location. It experiences more crime than Chase or Coffey counties but maintains a better safety profile than Cherokee. This puts Clark County in the middle tier of safety for rural Kansas.

Property Crime is the Main Concern

Property crime accounts for 1,365.7 incidents per 100,000, while violent crime remains very low at just 101.2. The violent crime rate is less than half the state average and significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Most law enforcement activity involves theft or property disputes rather than physical violence.

Basic Precautions for Peace of Mind

Focusing on property security is the most effective way for Clark County residents to prevent crime. Motion-activated lighting and sturdy locks on outbuildings can significantly deter potential thieves. Community vigilance remains the best tool for maintaining the county's low violent crime rate.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clark County

via HealthByCounty

Clark County battles national trends

At 73.0 years, Clark County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 75.7 years by 2.7 years. Its 15.1% poor/fair health rate is below the national average, suggesting underlying factors beyond self-reported health.

Below-average life expectancy statewide

Clark County's 73.0-year life expectancy falls 2.4 years short of Kansas's 75.4-year average, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. The 15.1% poor/fair health rate ranks closer to middle ground for Kansas.

Middling health among regional peers

Clark's 73.0-year life expectancy ranks better than Cherokee (72.1) and Chautauqua (74.0), but trails Chase (78.0) and Clay (78.2) significantly. Its 15.1% poor/fair health rate is among the county region's better marks.

Strong primary care, low uninsured rate

Clark stands out with 253 primary care providers per 100K—exceptional density suggesting robust access—and only 7.9% uninsured, the lowest in this set. Mental health provider data is unavailable, but primary care strength is a major asset.

Already well-covered, stay protected

Clark County's 7.9% uninsured rate is the best we've tracked, reflecting strong coverage. Still, confirm your insurance is active and fits your needs by checking the Kansas marketplace annually.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clark County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Tailored to the Community

Clark County manages five public schools across two districts, catering to a total of 449 students. This setup includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools.

Solid Performance and Above-Average Spend

The county's graduation rate matches 90.0%, which is well above the national 87.0% average. Investment is a priority here, with per-pupil spending at $9,308 compared to the $9,009 state average.

Two Districts Anchoring the Region

Minneola is the larger district with 258 students, while the Ashland district serves 191 students across three schools. The county maintains a traditional educational landscape with zero charter schools.

Small-Town Focus in Rural Schools

Every school here is rural, with an average size of only 90 students per building. Minneola Elementary is the county's largest school at 183 students, while Ashland Junior High is the smallest with 53.

Settle Near Top-Tier Rural Schools

If you're looking for an environment where every teacher knows every student, Clark County is a perfect fit. Consider local school quality as a primary factor when viewing homes in Minneola or Ashland.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clark County

via RiskByCounty

Clark County ranks exceptionally low nationally

Clark County's composite risk score of 7.09 places it among the safest counties in the entire United States, with a "Very Low" rating across all major hazard categories. The county's southwestern Kansas location and landscape result in minimal multi-hazard exposure.

Kansas's lowest-risk county

With a score of 7.09, Clark County sits far below Kansas's state average of 29.89, ranking as the state's safest community overall. This exceptional safety is driven by dramatically low flood risk (1.49) and minimal tornado exposure.

Significantly safer than surrounding counties

Clark County's risk profile substantially outperforms neighboring Comanche and Meade Counties, particularly in flood resilience. Its southwestern high plains position provides natural protection from severe precipitation and tornado activity affecting adjacent regions.

Wildfire risk overshadows other hazards

Wildfire risk scores 87.91 in Clark County, representing the sole significant natural hazard despite the county's minimal composite risk. All other hazard categories rank well below state and national averages.

Focus on wildfire-specific protection

Homeowners should prioritize wildfire coverage and fire-resistant property improvements over comprehensive multi-hazard insurance. Standard homeowner's policies with wildfire protection and defensible space maintenance provide sufficient protection for Clark County residents.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clark County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperatures and Arid Skies

Clark County averages 56.9°F annually, placing it above the national median for U.S. counties. It is a dry region, receiving only 23.0 inches of precipitation per year.

A Hotspot for Kansas Heat

The county is significantly warmer than the 54.8°F Kansas average, driven by some of the state's hottest summers. It receives about 7 inches less precipitation than the state average.

Hotter Than the Eastern Plains

Clark experiences 84 days of extreme heat, nearly double the 43 days seen in Coffey County. Its 23.0 inches of rain is typical for southwest Kansas but sparse compared to the east.

Punishing Summers and Dry Winters

Summers are extreme, featuring 84 days over 90°F and a July average of 81.5°F. Winters are dry and breezy, with 11.6 inches of snow and a 34.7°F average.

Investing in Serious Cooling

Robust air conditioning is a necessity to survive the 84 days of extreme heat each year. Residents should also plan for dry conditions, given the low 23.0-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clark County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Western Kansas Mollisols

Clark County is characterized by Mollisols, the deep, dark soils known for prairie fertility, though here they lean alkaline with a pH of 7.46. This pH is notably higher than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.80. The overall soil score of 34.3 reflects the limited rainfall and lower organic content of the region.

The Versatility of Fine Sandy Loam

The dominant texture is a fine sandy loam, backed by 44.3% sand and 36.1% silt. With only 19.3% clay, this soil is exceptionally easy to work and resists compaction. It offers a porous structure that allows roots to penetrate deeply and quickly.

Lean Organic Profiles in the South

Organic matter sits at 1.47%, which is below the national average of 2.0% and the Kansas average of 2.22%. The available water capacity is also lower than average at 0.166 in/in. Gardeners in Clark County will need to focus on building soil health through composting to improve these baseline numbers.

Well Drained and Ready for Rain

Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group B, these soils handle moderate rainfall with ease. This combination of fine sandy loam and group B classification means water moves steadily through the profile without pooling. It is an ideal setup for preventing root rot in sensitive plants.

Drought-Tolerant Varieties for Zone 6b

Clark County’s Zone 6b climate favors hardy perennials and crops that can withstand the summer heat. Mediterranean herbs, succulents, and deep-rooted native wildflowers are perfectly suited for the 44.3% sand content. Start a garden using water-wise techniques to see the best results in this well-drained landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clark County

via LawnByCounty

Intense Heat Drives High Lawn Difficulty

Clark County is one of the most challenging places in Kansas for lawn care, with a score of just 41.1. This Zone 6b county trails far behind the state average of 59.1 due to extreme temperature swings and low rainfall. Maintaining a traditional green lawn here requires significant effort and resources.

Eighty-Four Days of Extreme Heat

The county endures a staggering 84 days over 90°F annually, nearly 50% more than the state average. Combined with only 23.0 inches of precipitation, this heat creates a high-evaporation environment that is tough on turf. The 4,474 growing degree days indicate a fast, hot growing season that can easily scorch sensitive grass types.

Fine Sandy Loam with High pH

The soil consists of 44.3% sand and is classified as well-drained, meaning it won't hold moisture long during heatwaves. A pH of 7.46 is on the alkaline side, which may require iron treatments to prevent grass from yellowing. This fine sandy loam foundation offers good aeration but demands very consistent supplemental watering.

Maintaining Turf in a Dry Climate

With 96.0% of the county abnormally dry and 15 weeks of drought in the last year, water management is the top priority. Local gardeners should prioritize water-saving tech like smart irrigation controllers or drip lines. High heat and low rain make native, deep-rooted vegetation a more sustainable alternative to standard turf.

Tough Grasses for a Tough Climate

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or native Buffalograss are the most likely to survive the 84 days of extreme heat. Planting should occur after the April 21 frost date to give roots time to establish before the peak summer heat. Aim for completion before the first fall frost on October 17.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clark County's county score?
Clark County, Kansas has a composite county score of 49 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 Clark County rank among counties in Kansas?
Clark County ranks #61 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 Clark County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Clark County is $1,610, with an effective tax rate of 2.05%. This earns Clark County a tax score of 2.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clark County?
The median household income in Clark County, Kansas is $65,515 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clark County earns an income score of 56/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clark County, Kansas a good place to live?
Clark County scores 49/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #61 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Clark 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 Clark 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.