countyscore
60.4
County Score
Water Quality 86Schools 84.7Safety 74.8

County Report Card

About Coffey County, Kansas

Top-Tier National Ranking

Coffey County shines with a composite score of 60.4, well above the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a premier choice for livability on the national stage.

Leading the State

It significantly outperforms the Kansas average of 49.5. This high standing makes it one of the most attractive counties in the state for families and professionals.

Excellence in Education

The county excels in education with a School Score of 84.7 and maintains strong infrastructure with a Water Score of 86.0. Household incomes are also robust, averaging $67,377.

Premium Costs and Taxes

Lower scores in tax (27.4) and cost (52.7) show that residents pay a premium for high-quality services. The effective tax rate stands at 1.160%, which is a factor in the local budget.

The Gold Standard for Families

Coffey County is an ideal destination for growing families who prioritize top-tier public schools and high earning potential. It offers a gold standard of rural living for those willing to pay for quality.

Score breakdown

Tax27.4Cost52.7Safety74.8Health55.3Schools84.7Income60Risk64.7Water86Weather55.1
🏛27.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠52.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼60
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡74.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓84.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.2
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

Lyon County
Kansas
39.6
Woodson County
Kansas
60
Anderson County
Kansas
54.9
Greenwood County
Kansas
49.6
Osage County
Kansas
49.7
Franklin County
Kansas
40.2
Allen County
Kansas
40.8
Chase County
Kansas
59.7

Deep Dives

Coffey County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Coffey County

via TaxByCounty

Coffey County offers lowest tax rate nationally

At 1.160%, Coffey County's effective tax rate ranks among the lowest in the entire United States, 27% below the national median of 1.6%. Homeowners pay $1,618 annually, 40% less than the national median of $2,690, benefiting from a favorable tax environment despite median home values of $139,500.

Lowest rate in Kansas

At 1.160%, Coffey County boasts the lowest effective tax rate of any Kansas county, well below the statewide average of 1.549%. The median tax bill of $1,618 runs 17% below the state median of $1,943, making Coffey County Kansas's most tax-friendly county.

Substantially lower than all neighbors

Coffey County's 1.160% rate significantly undercuts neighboring Lyon County, Anderson County, and Osage County, giving it a clear competitive advantage. At the region's lowest rate combined with mid-range home values, Coffey offers exceptional tax value for property owners.

Pay around $1,618 annually

A Coffey County homeowner with the median home value of $139,500 pays approximately $1,618 in annual property taxes. When mortgage-related credits apply, the bill rises to $1,782; without deductions, it drops to $1,399.

Even best rates deserve verification

Coffey County's exceptional tax rate doesn't guarantee perfect assessments. Review your property's valuation notice and compare it to similar recent sales—if it appears inflated, an appeal is still worthwhile and costs nothing to file.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Coffey County

via CostByCounty

Coffey County: right at national norms

Coffey County renters spend 15.0% of their $67,377 income on housing, essentially matching the national average of 14.7% and representing solid affordability. The $842/month rent is moderate for the region, and Coffey County has among the highest incomes in this county group.

Near-average burden for Kansas

At 15.0%, Coffey County's rent-to-income ratio is just slightly above Kansas's 14.7% state average, placing it near the middle of the statewide affordability spectrum. Strong median incomes of $67,377 help offset slightly higher rents.

Moderate costs with strong incomes

Coffey County's $842/month rent sits between Cherokee ($801) and Clay County ($911), but its higher income level gives it better affordability than most neighbors. Only Clark County ($65,515) matches Coffey's stronger income position.

Balanced affordability across tenure

Renters pay $842/month (15.0% of $67,377 income), while homeowners pay $817/month on homes valued at $139,500—the second-highest in the region. Both rental and ownership options are relatively balanced and manageable for Coffey County households.

Coffey County offers solid stability

Coffey County delivers above-average incomes paired with manageable housing costs, making it one of the more economically stable options in this region. Whether renting or buying, your housing burden won't exceed national norms—a solid choice for relocation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Coffey County

via IncomeByCounty

Coffey County Nears National Median

Coffey County's median household income of $67,377 comes within $7,400 of the national median of $74,755, ranking it above the national midpoint. The county outperforms most rural U.S. counties, placing it in the upper half nationally.

Above Kansas State Average

At $67,377, Coffey County exceeds Kansas's median household income of $64,428 by roughly $3,000. The county ranks in the upper tier of Kansas's 105 counties, making it one of the stronger-earning areas in the state.

Economic Leader Among Peers

Coffey County's median income of $67,377 is the highest among the eight counties analyzed, outpacing all nearby counties including Clark County ($65,515) and Clay County ($63,136). This positioning reflects Coffey County's stronger industrial and employment base relative to neighboring areas.

Strong Income, Manageable Housing

Coffey County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.0% keeps housing costs well-controlled, despite a relatively high median home value of $139,500. The combination of solid incomes and moderate rent burdens leaves households room for savings and investment.

Optimal Conditions for Wealth Building

Coffey County residents enjoy above-average incomes with controlled housing costs, creating ideal conditions to build substantial wealth over time. Maximizing retirement contributions, diversifying investments, and working with a financial planner can help residents leverage their earning advantage for long-term financial independence.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Coffey County

via CrimeByCounty

Top-Tier National Safety

Coffey County is one of the safest areas in the country, boasting a high safety score of 99.1. Its total crime rate of 600.0 per 100,000 residents is approximately 75% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This data reflects an exceptionally secure environment for its citizens.

Leading the State in Safety

The county's safety score of 99.1 is significantly higher than the Kansas state average of 98.0. Five reporting agencies coordinate to keep the crime rate at 600.0, which is less than half the statewide average of 1,282.2. Coffey County stands out as a model for public safety in Kansas.

Lower Crime Than Southern Neighbors

Coffey County maintains a much safer profile than Cherokee County, which has a crime rate over three times higher. It also performs slightly better than Chautauqua and significantly better than Cloud. This regional comparison solidifies Coffey's status as a very low-risk area.

Minimal Violent Crime Levels

Violent crime is extremely rare in Coffey County, with a rate of 96.0 per 100,000 compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also low at 504.0, which is a fraction of the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. Residents here face very few threats to their person or their possessions.

Preserving a Safe Community

While risks are low, simple security measures like locking cars and using porch lights help maintain this peaceful environment. Five local law enforcement agencies work diligently, but resident awareness remains a key part of the safety equation. Maintaining these standards ensures Coffey County stays at the top of the safety rankings.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Coffey County

via HealthByCounty

Coffey outpaces national averages

At 76.6 years, Coffey County residents live 0.9 years above the U.S. average of 75.7 years. However, its 19.2% poor/fair health rate ties the highest in this county set and exceeds national norms, revealing a wellness paradox.

Mixed outcomes against Kansas

Coffey's 76.6-year life expectancy exceeds Kansas's 75.4-year average, but its 19.2% poor/fair health rate—tied with Chautauqua for worst—signals underlying health struggles despite decent longevity.

Average longevity, worst wellness reports

Coffey's 76.6-year life expectancy ranks mid-range among peers, but its 19.2% poor/fair health rate ties Chautauqua as the worst in the region, suggesting residents face significant daily health challenges.

Solid insurance, moderate provider access

At 9.0% uninsured—near the top of the access range—Coffey residents have good coverage. The county supports 72 primary care and 145 mental health providers per 100K, offering moderate care availability.

Protect your health coverage

With only 9.0% uninsured, Coffey is doing well, but the 19.2% poor/fair health rate suggests residents need strong care connections. Confirm your insurance and ask your provider about preventive services and wellness programs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Coffey County

via SchoolsByCounty

Top-Tier Educational Opportunities

Coffey County provides a comprehensive education system for 1,505 students across 10 public schools. The infrastructure consists of four elementary schools, four high schools, and two middle schools managed by three districts.

Exceptional Graduation and Funding Rates

The county boasts an impressive 92.9% graduation rate, far exceeding state and national benchmarks. Per-pupil expenditure is among the highest in the region at $12,176, nearly reaching the $13,000 national average.

Three Districts Providing Local Choice

Burlington is the largest district with 840 students, followed by Lebo-Waverly with 495. There are no charter schools here, maintaining a strong focus on community-based public district performance.

Small Schools with Town Connections

The county features a blend of seven rural schools and three town schools, with an average enrollment of 151 students. Burlington Elementary is the largest with 331 students, providing a vibrant but manageable learning environment.

The Perfect Place for Students

If academic results and high school funding are your top priorities, Coffey County should be at the top of your list. Start looking for your next home in this high-achieving Kansas county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Coffey County

via RiskByCounty

Coffey County faces moderate national disaster risk

Coffey County's composite risk score of 35.34 places it slightly above the national average but earns a "Very Low" rating due to the distribution of its hazards. The county's east-central Kansas location exposes it to multiple simultaneous weather threats.

Higher-risk county by Kansas standards

At 35.34, Coffey County exceeds Kansas's state average of 29.89, placing it among the state's higher-risk communities. Tornado risk of 48.66 and wildfire exposure of 78.50 are both above state averages, combining to elevate the county's overall profile.

Riskier than most adjacent counties

Coffey County faces substantially higher wildfire (78.50) and tornado (48.66) risks compared to neighboring Morris and Osage Counties. Its location in east-central Kansas positions it at the convergence of multiple hazard zones affecting the region.

Wildfire and tornado threats compound

Wildfire risk reaches 78.50 in Coffey County, the highest hazard category, while tornado risk scores 48.66 and flood risk reaches 41.16. This convergence of three significant threats requires serious preparedness from county residents.

Comprehensive hazard coverage is essential

Homeowners must secure strong wildfire, tornado, and wind coverage, and seriously consider flood insurance given the county's 41.16 flood score. A combination of reinforced safe spaces and property hardening measures significantly reduces disaster vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Coffey County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild and Moist Eastern Plains

Coffey County’s 55.8°F annual average is warmer than the national median. With 38.6 inches of rain, it is significantly wetter than the average American county.

Wetter and Warmer than Most

The county is warmer and wetter than the Kansas averages of 54.8°F and 30.3 inches. It sits in the humid eastern portion of the state where rain is more frequent.

Damp Climate vs Westward Neighbors

Coffey is wetter than Chase County to the west, receiving about 3 more inches of rain annually. It also has fewer extreme heat days than many central Kansas counties.

Manageable Winters and Humid Summers

Summers see 43 days of extreme heat, while winters are manageable with an average of 33.0°F. The county receives a modest 8.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Focusing on Moisture Management

The 38.6 inches of rain require well-maintained gutters and storm drainage systems. Since snowfall is limited to 8.8 inches, residents can focus more on humidity control than heavy snow gear.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Coffey County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Foundations in the Osage Cuestas

Coffey County soils have an average pH of 6.22, making them more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.80. This acidity level is common in eastern Kansas where higher rainfall leaches out basic minerals. Despite this, the county maintains a productive soil score of 61.8.

Dense Silt and Clay Profiles

The soil is characterized by 58.5% silt and 28.5% clay, with only 12.5% sand. This heavy, fine-textured mix can be prone to compaction and may drain slowly compared to sandier regions. It is a nutrient-rich environment that requires careful management to maintain good aeration.

Healthy Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is strong at 2.54%, comfortably above the Kansas state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.183 in/in, beating the state benchmark of 0.180. This combination ensures that plants have access to both the food and water they need to thrive.

Moisture-Retentive Silty Earth

While drainage class data is not specified, the high silt and clay percentages point to a soil that holds water tightly. The 0.183 available water capacity is a strength for long-term plant health but may mean gardens stay muddy longer in the spring. Proper drainage planning is helpful for any new construction or garden beds.

A Gardener's Haven in Zone 6b

Coffey County’s Zone 6b is ideal for cool-season crops like kale and peas, as well as summer favorites like peppers. The 2.54% organic matter provides a great head start for any planting project. With its high water storage potential, this soil is ready for you to start a lush, productive garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Coffey County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Lawn Potential in Coffey County

Coffey County earns a high lawn difficulty score of 72.2, making it one of the easiest places in Kansas to grow grass. It far exceeds the national average of 50.0 and the state average of 59.1. Residents in this Zone 6b county have a significant natural advantage for landscaping.

Favorable Rain and Manageable Heat

The county benefits from 38.6 inches of rain annually, nearly 10 inches more than the state average. With only 43 extreme heat days, turf is under less stress here than in almost any other part of Kansas. This combination leads to a vibrant, 4,270 growing degree day season with less need for emergency watering.

Acidic-Leaning, Clay-Rich Soil

The soil pH of 6.22 is well within the ideal range, supporting healthy grass without the need for lime or sulfur. It features a higher clay content of 28.5%, which is excellent for holding onto that 38.6 inches of rainfall. While specific drainage data is limited, the low sand content (12.5%) suggests you should watch for potential compaction.

Low Drought Exposure for Local Lawns

Coffey County only spent 6 weeks in drought over the last year, a remarkably low number for Kansas. Currently, only 29.8% of the area is abnormally dry, which is well below the figures of many neighbors. This stability makes it easier to maintain a green lawn through the summer without heavy water restrictions.

Capitalize on Early Spring Starts

With a final spring frost around April 11, you can get an early start on your lawn care routine. Tall Fescue is the standard-bearer for this climate, providing year-round green with minimal fuss. Your long growing season lasts until October 26, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coffey County's county score?
Coffey County, Kansas has a composite county score of 60.4 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 Coffey County rank among counties in Kansas?
Coffey County ranks #10 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 Coffey County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Coffey County is $1,618, with an effective tax rate of 1.16%. This earns Coffey County a tax score of 27.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Coffey County?
The median household income in Coffey County, Kansas is $67,377 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Coffey County earns an income score of 60/100 on CountyScore.
Is Coffey County, Kansas a good place to live?
Coffey County scores 60.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Coffey 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 Coffey 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.