countyscore
44.4
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 79.9Cost of Living 72.2

County Report Card

About Cloud County, Kansas

Below the National Median

Cloud County's composite score of 44.4 falls short of the national median of 50.0. This ranking highlights areas where local services and safety lag behind national norms.

Kansas Average Comparisons

The county sits below the Kansas state average of 49.5. Despite this, it remains competitive in specific categories like education and housing costs.

Strong Schools and Infrastructure

Infrastructure is a clear winner here, with a Water Score of 86.0 and an impressive School Score of 68.8. Rent is also highly affordable at a median of $689 per month.

Concerns in Public Safety

A very low Safety Score of 12.1 is the county's most significant drawback. The Tax Score of 5.3 also indicates a high tax burden for the level of services provided.

Best for Young Families

Cloud County is best for renters and young families who can take advantage of the strong schools and low housing costs. It appeals most to those who prioritize educational foundations.

Score breakdown

Tax5.3Cost72.2Safety12.1Health51.9Schools68.8Income31.2Risk79.9Water86Weather44.6
🏛5.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠72.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼31.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤51.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡79.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨68.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱54.6
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

Mitchell County
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55.8
Ottawa County
Kansas
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Republic County
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Clay County
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Deep Dives

Cloud County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cloud County

via TaxByCounty

Cloud County taxes above national average

At 1.788%, Cloud County's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 1.6%, placing it in the higher-tax category nationally. Homeowners pay $1,722 annually, 36% below the national median of $2,690, because median home values of $96,300 are roughly a third of the national average.

Above-average rate statewide

Cloud County's 1.788% effective rate runs notably above Kansas's statewide average of 1.549%, ranking it among the state's higher-tax counties. The median bill of $1,722 sits 11% below the state median of $1,943, reflecting the tension between a high rate and lower-than-average home values.

Highest rate in the region

At 1.788%, Cloud County's effective tax rate substantially exceeds all major neighbors including Clay County (1.378%), Osborne County, and Saline County, making it the region's priciest by rate. This elevated rate meaningfully impacts all homeowners regardless of property value.

Budget about $1,722 annually

A Cloud County homeowner with a median-value property of $96,300 pays approximately $1,722 per year in property taxes. With mortgage benefits, the bill rises to $1,925; without deductions, it falls to $1,446.

High rates justify careful assessment review

Cloud County's above-average tax rate means every savings opportunity counts. Request a detailed assessment report and compare your property's valuation to recent comparable sales in your neighborhood—a successful appeal could yield significant annual relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cloud County

via CostByCounty

Cloud County: balanced rent affordability

Cloud County renters spend 14.4% of their $57,333 income on housing, which is just slightly above the national average of 14.7% and among the better performers in this region. The $689/month rent is the lowest among all eight counties, supporting this favorable affordability profile.

Below-average burden for Kansas

At 14.4%, Cloud County's rent-to-income ratio is below Kansas's 14.7% state average, placing it among the more affordable counties statewide. The combination of the region's lowest rent and reasonable incomes creates this favorable position.

Lowest rents in the region

Cloud County's $689/month rent is the cheapest in this eight-county group—$24 less than Cheyenne, $69 less than Chase, and $222 less than Clay County. This rent advantage translates directly to better affordability despite moderate income levels.

Affordable rents, pricier ownership

Renters pay just $689/month (14.4% of $57,333 income), but homeowners pay $785/month on median homes valued at $96,300—a relatively high ownership cost. Cloud County clearly favors renters over homeowners in terms of affordability.

Cloud County rewards renters

If renting is your preference, Cloud County offers the region's best deal with the lowest monthly costs and a favorable affordability ratio. Keep in mind that homeownership is pricier here relative to renting, so renters get the real advantage.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cloud County

via IncomeByCounty

Cloud County Below National Income

Cloud County's median household income of $57,333 falls roughly $17,400 short of the national median of $74,755, ranking it in the lower third of U.S. counties. This income gap is typical for agricultural and small-town Kansas communities.

Below Kansas State Average

At $57,333, Cloud County trails Kansas's median household income of $64,428 by approximately $7,100. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of Kansas's 105 counties for household earnings.

Mid-Range Earnings Regionally

Cloud County's median income of $57,333 sits above Chautauqua County ($54,592) and Chase County ($54,518), but below Cherokee County ($58,274) and significantly below Coffey County ($67,377). The county reflects typical central Kansas income patterns.

Affordable Rents, Modest Homes

Cloud County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.4% is among the state's most affordable, well below the 30% threshold. The median home value of $96,300 aligns well with local incomes, supporting accessible homeownership throughout the county.

Opportunity in Affordability

With housing costs consuming just 14.4% of median income, Cloud County residents retain substantial earnings for savings and investments. Building an emergency fund and exploring tax-advantaged retirement accounts—even with modest contributions—creates a solid foundation for long-term financial health.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cloud County

via CrimeByCounty

Above Average Crime for the Region

Cloud County has a safety score of 95.9, reflecting a more active criminal landscape than many of its neighbors. Its total crime rate of 2,597.6 per 100,000 residents is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This makes it one of the few rural counties in Kansas to exceed the national baseline.

Lower Safety Ranking in Kansas

With a safety score of 95.9, Cloud County falls well below the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 2,597.6 is double the state average of 1,282.2 per 100,000. Two reporting agencies handle the high volume of incidents compared to other parts of the state.

A Regional Peak in Crime Rates

Cloud County experiences significantly more crime than its neighbors, such as Clay County, which reports a rate of 1,520.8. The difference is even more stark compared to Chase County’s ultra-low rate of 428.0. Residents here face a much higher statistical likelihood of encountering crime than those in nearby counties.

Property Crime Driving the Numbers

Property crime is the primary issue, with 2,198.0 incidents per 100,000 people, which is slightly higher than the national average. The violent crime rate of 399.6 also exceeds the national mark of 369.8. This combination indicates a need for increased vigilance regarding both physical safety and personal property.

Taking Proactive Security Steps

Given the higher crime rates, Cloud County residents should invest in comprehensive home security systems. Using smart locks, outdoor cameras, and improved lighting can effectively deter property crimes. Staying involved in community watch programs is also vital for improving overall local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cloud County

via HealthByCounty

Cloud County lags U.S. health benchmarks

At 73.4 years, Cloud County residents live 2.3 years less than the U.S. average of 75.7 years. Its 16.7% poor/fair health rate sits near national norms, indicating a longevity challenge.

Below-average outcomes in Kansas

Cloud County's 73.4-year life expectancy trails Kansas's 75.4-year state average by 2.0 years, positioning it among the state's lower performers. Its 16.7% poor/fair health rate runs closer to the Kansas median.

Weaker than most regional peers

Cloud's 73.4-year life expectancy ranks better than only Cherokee (72.1) and Chautauqua (74.0) among nearby counties, with Chase (78.0) and Clay (78.2) notably ahead. Its 16.7% poor/fair rate is mid-range for the region.

Good mental health care, sparse primary

Cloud offers only 56 primary care providers per 100K—well below typical density—but supports 226 mental health providers per 100K, the highest in this set. With 8.7% uninsured, coverage approaches optimal levels.

Secure your primary care access

Cloud's 8.7% uninsured rate is excellent, but sparse primary care means coordinating access matters more. Enroll via the Kansas marketplace and ask your provider about wait times and virtual visits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cloud County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and High-Scoring Network

Cloud County supports 1,392 students across eight public schools, including four high schools and three elementary schools. Two districts provide the administrative backbone for this regional education system.

Outperforming State Academic Benchmarks

The county's school score of 62.1 is significantly higher than the Kansas average of 57.2. Spending reflects this quality, with $11,194 invested per pupil compared to the $9,009 state average.

The Concordia District Leading Enrollment

The Concordia district is the primary provider with 1,131 students across three schools. The county does not host any charter schools, relying entirely on its established public districts.

From Busy Towns to Quiet Rural Schools

The locale mix features five rural schools and three town schools, offering families different learning environments. Concordia Jr-Sr High is the largest school with 485 students, while Southern Cloud’s Glasco Elementary is far smaller with 60.

Secure a Future in Cloud County

With high academic scores and strong per-pupil funding, Cloud County is an attractive destination for families. Explore the diverse housing options near Concordia or the surrounding rural communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cloud County

via RiskByCounty

Cloud County ranks low on national risk scale

Cloud County's composite risk score of 20.17 places it below the national average with a "Very Low" rating, reflecting generally modest disaster exposure. The county benefits from a north-central Kansas location that reduces vulnerability to multiple hazard types.

Below-average risk statewide

At 20.17, Cloud County scores significantly below Kansas's state average of 29.89, ranking it among the state's safer communities. This advantage is driven by low flood and earthquake risks, though tornado exposure remains moderate by state standards.

Safer than most surrounding counties

Cloud County's risk profile outperforms nearby Mitchell and Ottawa Counties, which face higher tornado and flood exposure. Its north-central location provides moderate protection from the severe weather patterns affecting eastern and southern Kansas.

Tornado and wildfire pose main threats

Tornado risk scores 47.87 in Cloud County, the county's most significant hazard, while wildfire risk reaches 62.12. Together, these threats account for the majority of the county's disaster exposure.

Prioritize tornado and wildfire coverage

Homeowners should ensure strong tornado and wind protection coverage in addition to wildfire safeguards in their property insurance. A designated safe room and regular property inspections help mitigate the county's primary weather-related threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cloud County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Winds and Consistent Rain

With an annual average of 53.5°F, Cloud County is slightly cooler than the national median. It receives 30.0 inches of precipitation, typical for the sub-humid prairie.

A Cooler Kansas Average

Cloud County is cooler than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F by over a degree. Its precipitation levels are remarkably consistent with the state-wide average of 30.3 inches.

Snowier Than Its Eastern Neighbors

Cloud receives 17.7 inches of snow, significantly more than the 10.7 inches found in Clay County. However, it enjoys fewer extreme heat days than its neighbors to the east.

Frigid Winters and Sunny Summers

Winters are cold with a January average of 28.0°F and 17.7 inches of snow. Summers still pack a punch, featuring 48 days with temperatures reaching 90°F or higher.

Keep the Snow Shovel Ready

Snow removal equipment is a necessity for the 17.7 inches of annual snowfall. Reliable heating systems are critical for the winter season, which averages a chilly 30.2°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cloud County

via SoilByCounty

Near-Neutral Ground in the Republican Valley

Cloud County boasts an average pH of 6.62, placing it very close to the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity is slightly lower than the Kansas average of 6.80 and is generally considered ideal for a wide range of plants. The county earns a strong soil score of 68.3, outperforming the state average.

Silt-Driven Soils for Stability

The soil composition is 55.2% silt, 23.2% clay, and 21.4% sand. This silty dominance provides a smooth texture that holds moisture well without becoming as difficult to work as heavy clay. It offers a stable medium for both agricultural equipment and delicate garden roots.

Superior Water Capacity for the Plains

Cloud County features 2.37% organic matter, which is higher than the state average of 2.22%. Its available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is one of the highest in the region, significantly beating the state average of 0.180. This soil acts like a sponge, storing moisture for use during the heat of July and August.

High-Capacity Moisture Storage

Although specific drainage classes aren't provided, the high available water capacity indicates a soil that excels at internal moisture management. The 23.2% clay content helps prevent nutrients from leaching too quickly through the profile. For builders and gardeners, this means the soil is resilient but may stay damp after heavy rains.

Thriving in Zone 6b

Zone 6b in Cloud County is great for everything from orchard fruits like apples to summer squash. The excellent water capacity of 0.193 in/in means you’ll spend less time watering than your neighbors in other counties. It is a fantastic environment for anyone looking to start a productive home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cloud County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growing Conditions in Cloud County

Cloud County scores a 54.6 for lawn difficulty, which is fairly close to the Kansas state average of 59.1. Located in Zone 6b, the county offers a manageable environment for those willing to track local weather patterns. It provides a more favorable starting point for lawns than many western Kansas counties.

Balanced Heat and Rain Cycles

Average annual precipitation is 30.0 inches, perfectly matching the state average and providing a solid base for growth. There are 48 extreme heat days per year, which is lower than the Kansas average of 58 days, reducing the risk of mid-summer dormancy. The 3,845 growing degree days support a steady, predictable mowing schedule.

Reliable Soil for Turf Development

A soil pH of 6.62 is nearly ideal, allowing for maximum nutrient availability for your grass. The composition of 23.2% clay and 21.4% sand provides a middle-of-the-road texture that isn't too heavy or too fast-draining. This allows for flexible lawn care routines without constant soil correction.

Managing Seasonal Moisture Swings

Like its neighbors, Cloud County faced 38 weeks of drought in the past year, though it is currently clear of drought markers. This suggests that while conditions are currently stable, you should always have a drought-contingency plan in place. Keep your grass at least 3 inches tall to shade the soil and reduce water loss.

Optimal Planting Windows for Zone 6b

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue are the top performers for this region's temperature range. The spring growing season starts after the April 21 frost, but fall remains the best time to seed for long-term health. Be sure your new grass is established before the first fall frost arrives on October 19.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cloud County's county score?
Cloud County, Kansas has a composite county score of 44.4 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 Cloud County rank among counties in Kansas?
Cloud County ranks #72 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 Cloud County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Cloud County is $1,722, with an effective tax rate of 1.79%. This earns Cloud County a tax score of 5.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cloud County?
The median household income in Cloud County, Kansas is $57,333 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cloud County earns an income score of 31.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cloud County, Kansas a good place to live?
Cloud County scores 44.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #72 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Cloud 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 Cloud 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.