countyscore
58.2
County Score
Safety 81.6Cost of Living 80.3Disaster Risk 79.8

County Report Card

About Comanche County, Kansas

Comanche County Outpaces the National Median

Comanche County achieves a composite score of 58.2, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score places it in a competitive position relative to counties across the country.

A Top Performer in the Sunflower State

The county's overall score of 58.2 far exceeds the Kansas state average of 49.5. This performance highlights Comanche County as a standout for livability within the state.

Low Costs and High Safety Standards

The county excels in affordability and security, posting an 80.3 cost score and an 81.6 safety score. Median home values sit at a highly accessible $59,900, while risk factors remain low with a 79.8 score.

High Tax Burdens and Low Incomes

The local tax burden is significant, resulting in a low tax score of 1.4 due to an effective tax rate of 2.285%. Additionally, the income score of 13.2 reflects a median household income of $49,417, which trails state norms.

Ideal for Cost-Conscious Rural Seekers

This county is a perfect match for retirees or remote workers who prioritize affordable housing and personal safety. While taxes are high, the exceptionally low cost of entry for real estate provides a strong counter-balance.

Score breakdown

Tax1.4Cost80.3Safety81.6Health63Schools69Income13.2Risk79.8Water14.3Weather49.4
🏛1.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼13.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓69
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡79.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧14.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨41.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱46.6
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Comanche County?

Many homeowners in Comanche County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Comanche County with Marion County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Marion County
Alabama
Median income: $50,714
58.2
Gunnison County
Colorado
Median income: $77,358
58.2
Dickinson County
Michigan
Median income: $61,882
58.2
Quitman County
Mississippi
Median income: $32,131
58.2
Schuyler County
New York
Median income: $65,625
58.2
Washburn County
Wisconsin
Median income: $61,270
58.2
Wilcox County
Alabama
Median income: $42,236
58.3
Toombs County
Georgia
Median income: $54,130
58.3

Nearby counties

Kiowa County
Kansas
59
Harper County
Oklahoma
58.8
Clark County
Kansas
49
Woods County
Oklahoma
56.8
Barber County
Kansas
50.1
Woodward County
Oklahoma
38.1
Pratt County
Kansas
46.8
Ford County
Kansas
33.1

Deep Dives

Comanche County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Comanche County

via TaxByCounty

Comanche taxes well above national median

Comanche County's effective tax rate of 2.285% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.09%, placing it in roughly the top 15% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $1,369 is roughly half the national median of $2,690, largely because median home values here ($59,900) are far below the national median of $281,900.

Comanche ranks high for taxes within Kansas

At 2.285%, Comanche County's effective rate is the highest among the eight counties profiled and well above Kansas's state average of 1.549%. This makes Comanche a notable outlier—despite modest home values, residents here carry one of the heaviest tax rates in the state.

Comanche tops regional tax rates

Comanche's 2.285% effective rate significantly outpaces neighboring Decatur County (1.794%) and Edwards County (1.593%) in the region. Among all eight profiled counties, only Comanche approaches a 2% rate, making it a regional high point for tax burden.

Median home pays $1,369 annually

On a median-valued home of $59,900, Comanche County residents pay approximately $1,369 in annual property taxes. For mortgaged homes, that figure rises slightly to $1,380, while those without mortgages pay $1,360.

Review assessments to lower bills

Research shows many homeowners are assessed above fair market value and could reduce their tax bills through formal appeals. If your home's assessed value seems high relative to recent sales in your neighborhood, contacting your county assessor's office about a reassessment review may reveal savings opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Comanche County

via CostByCounty

Comanche rents align with national norms

Comanche County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.3% sits slightly above the national sweet spot, meaning renters here spend a bit more of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The median household income of $49,417 falls well below the national median of $74,755, creating affordability pressure despite modest rents of $672 monthly.

Above average among Kansas counties

Comanche's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kansas's state average of 14.7%, and its median rent of $672 undercuts the state average of $787. This means Comanche renters are spending more of their income on housing despite paying lower absolute rent—a sign of lower local wages.

Affordable compared to Crawford County

Comanche rents at $672 are $165 cheaper than Crawford County's $837 monthly median, though Comanche's rent-to-income ratio (16.3%) edges out Decatur's (16.0%) and Cowley's (16.0%). Among its regional peers, Comanche offers solid rental affordability in absolute dollars but faces income headwinds.

Renters stretch budgets more than owners

Comanche renters spend 16.3% of their $49,417 median income on rent, while homeowners pay just $691 monthly—equivalent to 16.8% of household income. The median home value of $59,900 means homeownership requires less total wealth, making buying the more affordable long-term path here.

Budget-conscious homebuyers, take note

If you're seeking affordable homeownership in Kansas, Comanche's $59,900 median home value is among the state's lowest. Compare this against Crawford ($122,400) or Douglas ($281,600) to see where your down payment stretches furthest.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Comanche County

via IncomeByCounty

Comanche trails national income

Comanche County's median household income of $49,417 falls 34% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it in the lower income tier nationally. This gap reflects economic challenges shared by many rural Kansas counties competing in a knowledge-driven economy.

Below average across Kansas

At $49,417, Comanche County ranks below Kansas's state average median income of $64,428, trailing by $14,911 annually. The county's per capita income of $31,710 also lags the state average of $34,748.

Comanche faces toughest odds

Among nearby southwest Kansas counties, Comanche has the lowest median household income, trailing Cowley County ($58,263) by nearly $9,000 and Edwards County ($53,792) by $4,375. This income gap widens regional disparities in the area.

Rent remains manageable here

Comanche County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.3% sits comfortably below the national affordability threshold of 30%, suggesting renters spend roughly one-sixth of income on housing. With a median home value of just $59,900, homeownership here is among the state's most accessible.

Build wealth despite lower income

Comanche County residents can leverage affordable housing to build equity—median home values under $60,000 make down payments achievable for many families. Starting a savings plan early and exploring employer retirement benefits can compound over time, even on modest incomes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Comanche County

via CrimeByCounty

A National Leader in Public Safety

Comanche County is significantly safer than most of the country with a stellar safety score of 99.3. Its total crime rate of 438.4 per 100K is less than one-fifth of the national average of 2,385.5.

Surpassing Kansas Safety Averages

With a safety score exceeding the state average of 98.0, Comanche stands out as one of the most secure regions in Kansas. It maintains an exceptionally low crime footprint compared to the state's typical figures.

Regional Peace and Quiet

While many neighboring rural areas enjoy low crime, Comanche's rate of 438.4 per 100K is remarkably low even by regional standards. Residents experience far fewer incidents than those in larger Kansas hubs or the national baseline.

Minimal Violent and Property Crime

Property crimes account for the majority of local incidents at 328.8 per 100K, though this remains well below the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. Violent crime is rare, occurring at a rate of 109.6 per 100K.

Maintaining a Secure Community

Even in a county this safe, basic home security remains a smart preventative measure. Stay vigilant and keep property secured to maintain Comanche's status as a quiet, secure community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Comanche County

via HealthByCounty

Comanche's Life Expectancy Tracks Close to National Average

Residents of Comanche County can expect to live 75.0 years, slightly below the U.S. average of 78.8 years but reflecting health patterns common across rural Kansas. With 14.2% of residents reporting poor or fair health, Comanche performs better than the national average of 16%, suggesting a relatively healthy population by broader standards.

Slightly Behind Kansas's Health Outcomes

Comanche ranks just below the state average life expectancy of 75.4 years, placing it in the middle tier of Kansas counties. The county's 9.0% uninsured rate significantly outperforms Kansas's state average of 11.5%, indicating strong health coverage uptake locally.

Strongest Provider Access in Its Region

Comanche County leads its neighbors with 120 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly three times the regional average—ensuring residents have robust access to routine medical care. Mental health services are also available at 60 providers per 100K, supporting comprehensive behavioral health access.

Healthcare Access Supports Comanche Communities

Only 9.0% of Comanche residents lack health insurance, meaning nine out of ten people have coverage for doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergency care. With excellent primary care provider density, residents can typically access preventive care and routine checkups without traveling far.

Keep Coverage Strong—Check Your Options

If you're among Comanche's 9% uninsured, or if your coverage has changed, visit healthcare.gov or contact Kansas Medicaid to explore plans that fit your family's needs. Open enrollment periods offer affordable options—don't miss the chance to lock in coverage for next year.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Comanche County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Concentrated Countywide System

Comanche County operates a lean education network consisting of just three public schools serving 319 students. This unified infrastructure includes one elementary, one middle, and one high school managed by a single district.

Strong Results and Efficient Spending

Students here achieve a 90.0% graduation rate, exceeding both the Kansas average of 88.7% and the national average of 87.0%. The county invests $10,020 per pupil, which is higher than the state average investment of $9,009.

One District Serves All Students

The Comanche County district manages all local education for the county's 319 students. There are no charter schools in the area, ensuring a traditional and streamlined public school experience for every family.

Small-Town Learning in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating an intimate learning environment with an average school size of 106 students. South Central Elementary is the largest facility with 154 students, while the high school serves just 69 students.

Find Your Home in Comanche County

Families seeking small class sizes and graduation rates that beat state benchmarks should explore local real estate. This quiet rural community offers a focused educational environment that is perfect for personalized attention.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Comanche County

via RiskByCounty

Comanche County's disaster risk is very low

With a composite risk score of 20.23, Comanche County ranks as Very Low—well below the national average. This score reflects minimal exposure to most major natural hazards across the region.

Among Kansas's safest counties

Comanche County's score of 20.23 ranks it in the lowest tier statewide, significantly below Kansas's county average of 29.89. Few Kansas counties experience lower overall natural disaster risk.

One of the region's safest areas

Comanche County's very low risk profile is comparable to Edwards County (17.56) and Decatur County (11.29) nearby. The county benefits from lower hazard exposure than most of western Kansas.

Wildfire and tornado present modest threats

Wildfire risk scores highest at 94.62, driven by dry conditions and grassland exposure typical of the High Plains. Tornado risk at 29.26 remains substantially lower than state averages, making this the county's secondary concern.

Basic coverage meets most needs here

Standard homeowners insurance covering wind and hail damage provides solid protection for Comanche County residents. Given the very low overall risk profile, comprehensive disaster coverage beyond standard policies is unlikely to be cost-effective for most households.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Comanche County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warmer Semi-Arid Climate

Comanche County's annual average temperature of 57.3°F is significantly warmer than the national median. This region experiences a dry climate with only 25.3 inches of annual rainfall.

Leading the State in Heat

The county stays much warmer than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. It ranks as one of the warmest locations in the state, driven by its southern position.

Dry Heat Compared to Neighbors

Comanche shares a 57.3°F average with Cowley County but receives 13 fewer inches of rain. It is also notably warmer than Edwards County to its north.

Intense Summers and Mild Winters

Residents face 77 days of extreme heat above 90°F every year. Winters are relatively mild for Kansas, with a 34.0°F January average and 14.7 inches of snow.

Prepare for the Heat

High-efficiency cooling systems are a priority to manage the two-plus months of 90-degree weather. Outdoor activities are best planned for early morning to avoid peak solar exposure.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Comanche County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Mollisols of Comanche County

Comanche's silt loam soils belong to the Mollisol order and feature an average pH of 7.15. This makes the land significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.80.

A Sandy Silt Loam Blend

The soil contains 41.8% sand and 39.6% silt, creating a texture that is easy to work. A clay content of 18.3% provides enough structure to hold nutrients without becoming excessively heavy or difficult to till.

Dry Soils Needing Organic Boosts

Organic matter sits at 1.53%, which is lower than the state average of 2.22%. With an available water capacity of 0.168 in/in, these soils hold less moisture than the 0.180 Kansas benchmark.

Well Drained with Moderate Infiltration

The land is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. This combination suggests that while water moves through the profile well, surface infiltration can be slow during heavy rains.

Hardy Growing in Zone 7a

Hardiness zone 7a supports heat-tolerant crops like sorghum and winter wheat. Local gardeners can cultivate robust vegetable beds by adding compost to improve moisture retention in this alkaline soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Comanche County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging Climate for Comanche Lawns

Comanche County scores a 46.6 for lawn difficulty, falling below both the national median of 50.0 and the Kansas average of 59.1. Maintaining turf in this Zone 7a region requires more effort and resources than in neighboring counties. High heat and low moisture create a demanding environment for most traditional grass types.

Intense Heat Meets Low Rainfall

The county endures 77 extreme heat days annually, far exceeding the state average of 58 days. With only 25.3 inches of annual precipitation, homeowners must supplement significantly to reach the 30-50 inch ideal range for turf. The 4,514 growing degree days suggest a long, active season that necessitates a rigorous mowing schedule.

Silt Loam Foundations in Comanche

The soil pH of 7.15 sits just above the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, indicating slightly alkaline conditions. This well-drained silt loam contains 41.8% sand, which allows for excellent drainage but may require more frequent watering. Lawns here benefit from organic amendments to help buffer the pH and improve nutrient retention.

Managing Water in Persistent Dryness

The county currently faces 100% abnormal dryness after experiencing 14 weeks of drought over the past year. To conserve water, residents should practice deep, infrequent irrigation to encourage deep root growth. Mulching grass clippings back into the soil helps retain moisture during the hottest summer months.

Start Your Zone 7a Lawn Strong

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are the best performers for this heat-heavy climate. Plan to seed your lawn after the final frost on April 25 to ensure optimal establishment. Early summer planting allows these species to thrive during the long, sunny growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Comanche County's county score?
Comanche County, Kansas has a composite county score of 58.2 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 Comanche County rank among counties in Kansas?
Comanche County ranks #19 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 Comanche County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Comanche County is $1,369, with an effective tax rate of 2.29%. This earns Comanche County a tax score of 1.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Comanche County?
The median household income in Comanche County, Kansas is $49,417 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Comanche County earns an income score of 13.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Comanche County, Kansas a good place to live?
Comanche County scores 58.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #19 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Comanche 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 Comanche 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.