countyscore
52.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 84.9Soil Quality 69.8Cost of Living 69.6

County Report Card

About Ellsworth County, Kansas

Outperforming the National Median

Ellsworth County earns a composite score of 52.5, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This places the county in the upper half of U.S. counties for overall quality of life and stability.

A Top Performer in Kansas

The county’s score of 52.5 sits well above the state average of 49.5. It represents a high-performing choice for Kansas residents looking for a reliable and well-rounded community.

Low Environmental Risk and Strong Income

With a Risk Score of 84.9, the county is exceptionally resilient against natural hazards. Residents also benefit from a healthy economic base, evidenced by a Median Household Income of $66,792 and an Income Score of 58.6.

Tax Burdens and Water Issues

The county struggles with a low Tax Score of 12.1, driven by an effective tax rate of 1.518%. Additionally, the Water Score of 15.6 suggests that local water quality or infrastructure requires attention.

Ideal for Secure Rural Living

Ellsworth County is a premier destination for those seeking a safe, middle-class lifestyle with low environmental threats. It offers a balanced mix of affordability and earnings that makes it a standout choice in central Kansas.

Score breakdown

Tax12.1Cost69.6Safety58.4Health58Schools54.9Income58.6Risk84.9Water15.6Weather45.1
🏛12.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠69.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡58.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡84.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧15.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨69.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59.6
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

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60.4
Rice County
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Russell County
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Barton County
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Ottawa County
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Deep Dives

Ellsworth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ellsworth County

via TaxByCounty

Ellsworth County slightly below national norm

Ellsworth County's effective tax rate of 1.518% sits slightly below the national median of 2.690%, placing the county in the bottom 45% nationally. The median property tax of $1,766 is substantially lower than the national median of $2,690, primarily due to lower home values in the region.

Right at Kansas state average

Ellsworth County's 1.518% effective rate closely mirrors Kansas's state average of 1.549%, making it a middle-ground Kansas county by tax burden. The $1,766 median tax exceeds the state median of $1,943 slightly, reflecting the county's efficient tax structure.

Moderate taxes in competitive region

Ellsworth County's 1.518% rate sits between Ellis County's favorable 1.223% and Elk County's steeper 1.988%, positioning it as a middle option regionally. Ford County (1.650%) and Gove County (1.329%) provide nearby alternatives with different tax profiles.

Median home value nets $1,766 annual tax

On Ellsworth County's median home value of $116,300, property owners pay approximately $1,766 annually, or $1,978 with mortgage interest deductions included. For a county with below-average home values, this represents a reasonable tax burden aligned with state norms.

Appeal your assessment if value has dropped

Roughly 1 in 5 Kansas properties are overassessed, and Ellsworth County homeowners with declining home values or outdated assessments should consider filing an appeal. The county assessor's office can guide you through the process of challenging your valuation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ellsworth County

via CostByCounty

Ellsworth County balances income and housing

At 12.7%, Ellsworth County's rent-to-income ratio sits below both the national average and Kansas state mean, signaling solid housing affordability. With rents at $705 monthly and a $66,792 median household income—higher than rural peers—residents enjoy a sustainable balance.

Among Kansas's most affordable counties

Ellsworth County ranks well above the Kansas median for affordability, with a 12.7% rent-to-income ratio versus the state average of 14.7%. This advantage comes from both competitive rents ($705/month vs. $787 statewide) and a stronger median household income of $66,792.

Ellsworth offers mid-range pricing

Ellsworth County's $705 rent falls between Elk County's bargain $534 and pricier Ellis County at $899, making it a balanced option. Home values of $116,300 remain moderate compared to Ellis County ($211,100) but exceed Elk County's $60,900, reflecting Ellsworth's stronger economic position.

Manageable housing burden for families

Renters spend 12.7% of income on housing, while homeowners pay $807 monthly—both well within comfortable thresholds. On a $66,792 median income, Ellsworth County households retain substantial purchasing power for savings, childcare, and other priorities.

Ellsworth County suits balanced seekers

Ellsworth County offers a sweet spot: rents are $60 cheaper than Ellis County but still higher than rural options like Elk, and incomes support both renters and homeowners. If you want small-town Kansas without extreme affordability constraints, compare Ellsworth to its pricier neighbors before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ellsworth County

via IncomeByCounty

Ellsworth lags U.S. median slightly

Ellsworth County's median household income of $66,792 falls roughly $8,000 short of the national median of $74,755. This 11% gap is smaller than most rural Kansas counties, positioning Ellsworth as a relatively stronger earner nationwide.

Slightly above Kansas average

At $66,792, Ellsworth County edges ahead of the Kansas state median of $64,428 by about $2,364. This places Ellsworth among the stronger-performing counties statewide, reflecting its more diversified local economy.

Mid-range among eight-county cluster

Ellsworth County ($66,792) trails only Finney ($72,437), Ford ($70,495), and Franklin ($72,142), outearning Gove ($63,203), Ellis ($59,889), Elk ($56,087), and Geary ($57,344). Its position reflects a balanced, stable local economy.

Very affordable housing advantage

Ellsworth County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the most affordable in Kansas, with median home values at just $116,300. Residents devote minimal income to housing, creating breathing room for savings and investments.

Capitalize on affordable housing

Ellsworth County's affordable housing market positions residents perfectly for wealth building through homeownership or rental savings. Lock in long-term financial security by directing housing savings into retirement accounts and diversified investments.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ellsworth County

via CrimeByCounty

Ellsworth County ranks among the nation's safest

With a total crime rate of only 957.0 per 100,000, Ellsworth County is far safer than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance translates into a high safety score of 98.5. Residents benefit from some of the lowest crime figures in the central United States.

Leading the state in overall public safety

Ellsworth County's safety score of 98.5 outperforms the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 957.0 is significantly lower than the state average of 1,282.2 per 100,000. These metrics reflect a highly secure environment managed by five local reporting agencies.

Ellsworth sets the standard for regional security

The county's low total crime rate of 957.0 per 100,000 makes it a regional leader in public safety. It remains well below the state average of 1,282.2, showcasing a quiet and secure atmosphere for its citizens. Local law enforcement's proactive presence contributes to these favorable comparisons.

Violent crime is exceptionally rare in Ellsworth

The violent crime rate is just 125.5 per 100,000, roughly half the state average of 235.9. Property crime also stays low at 831.5 per 100,000, compared to the national rate of 2,015.7. These numbers indicate that most residents will rarely encounter serious criminal activity in their daily lives.

Maintenance of safety through community awareness

While crime rates are very low, keeping property well-lit remains an effective preventative measure. Residents should report unusual activity to one of the five local reporting agencies to maintain the county's excellent safety score. Small steps in home security ensure Ellsworth County remains a top-ranked safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ellsworth County

via HealthByCounty

Ellsworth County approaches national health parity

At 76.7 years, Ellsworth County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 80 by just over three years, a modest gap for rural America. With 17.9% reporting poor or fair health, the county is performing near national norms, though room for improvement remains.

Ellsworth ranks solidly above Kansas average

Ellsworth County's 76.7-year life expectancy is 1.3 years above the Kansas state average of 75.4 years, placing it in the better-performing half. The 17.9% poor/fair health rate also beats the typical Kansas county profile.

Ellsworth County holds middle ground regionally

Ellsworth County's 76.7-year life expectancy sits between stronger-performing Ellis County (79.0) and lower-performing Elk County (74.2), reflecting moderate regional health diversity. Its 17.9% poor/fair rate mirrors Elk County's challenges more closely than Ellis County's advantages.

Uninsured rate is lowest in region

At 9.7%, Ellsworth County's uninsured rate is notably lower than the state average of 11.5%, with 32 primary care providers and 32 mental health providers per 100,000. This lower uninsured rate suggests better healthcare access and financial barriers are less severe than in many peers.

Secure coverage for preventive care

With nearly 1 in 10 residents uninsured, check Healthcare.gov and Kansas DHCF programs to ensure you're protected against unexpected health costs. Preventive screenings and early treatment can help Ellsworth County continue climbing health rankings.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ellsworth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Flexible Options Across Seven Schools

Ellsworth County provides 7 public schools across 2 districts, catering to a student population of 2,222. The landscape features 3 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 3 high schools. This configuration offers a range of traditional and alternative paths for local families.

Steady Academic and Financial Metrics

The county's graduation rate stands at 86.6%, closely matching the national average of 87.0%. Academic performance is solid with a school score of 56.3, nearly aligning with the Kansas state average of 57.2. Per-pupil expenditure is $9,121, which is just above the state average of $9,009.

Central Plains and Ellsworth Districts

Central Plains is the largest district, managing 5 schools and 1,718 students, followed by the Ellsworth district with 644 students. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring all 2,222 students are served by traditional public entities. The districts manage a unique mix of traditional campuses and specialized diploma programs.

A Predominantly Rural Learning Experience

Five of the county's schools are located in rural areas, while two serve the town center. The Central Plains Adult Diploma Program is the largest enrollment center with 1,185 students, while traditional campuses like Kanopolis Middle are much smaller with 153 students. The average school size is 317 students, though this is skewed by the large adult program.

Invest in Your Family's Future

Ellsworth County offers a stable educational environment with graduation rates and spending that align with state and national norms. The mix of small rural schools and larger specialized programs provides options for every type of learner. Finding a home here means joining a community that values consistent academic growth.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ellsworth County

via RiskByCounty

Ellsworth County sits comfortably safe

With a composite risk score of 15.17, Ellsworth County earns a Very Low rating and ranks among America's safest counties for natural disasters. The county's risk profile is roughly half the national average.

One of Kansas's lowest-risk counties

Ellsworth County's 15.17 score falls well below the Kansas state average of 29.89, placing it in the state's safest tier. Residents benefit from favorable geographic positioning that protects against most major hazards.

Lower risk than regional peers

Ellsworth County's risk sits notably below surrounding counties like Rush and Barton, with particularly strong advantages in earthquake and flood exposure. The county's central location provides natural protection across multiple hazard types.

Wildfire and tornado are secondary threats

Wildfire risk scores 77.39 and tornado risk reaches 51.27, representing Ellsworth County's principal concerns despite the county's overall low-risk status. Flooding, earthquakes, and hurricanes pose minimal danger.

Basic coverage meets most needs

Standard homeowners insurance adequately protects against tornado damage, the county's more likely threat. Given very low flood and earthquake risk, basic policies typically provide sufficient protection for Ellsworth County residents.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ellsworth County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Temperatures in the Heartland

Ellsworth County averages 54.8°F, which aligns closely with the national median temperature. It receives 29.6 inches of precipitation, typical for a continental climate in the Great Plains.

The Exact Average of Kansas

The county perfectly matches the Kansas state average temperature of 54.8°F. Its 29.6 inches of precipitation also sits very close to the statewide average of 30.3 inches.

A Climate Benchmark for the Region

Ellsworth shares similar precipitation levels with Geary County but experiences 60 days of extreme heat. This is ten days fewer than Ellis County but higher than the state's eastern borders.

Sixty Days of Summer Peak

Summer features 60 days above 90°F, contributing to a warm July average of 79.7°F. Winter remains cold with a January average of 30.3°F and 14.3 inches of annual snow.

Winterize Pipes and Mulch Gardens

Prepare for the 30.3°F January lows by insulating exposed plumbing. Use heavy mulch in gardens to retain moisture during the 60 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ellsworth County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Soils with High Performance

Ellsworth County boasts a near-perfect pH of 6.64, very close to the ideal national median of 6.5. This balance supports a wide variety of plant life and microbial activity. The county's impressive soil score of 69.8 makes it one of the more productive regions in the state.

Silt-Rich Foundation for Root Growth

The soil is comprised of 53.1% silt, 24.3% sand, and 22.7% clay. This high-silt environment provides excellent workability and enough clay to retain essential nutrients. It is a versatile mix that resists the extreme hardness of high-clay soils.

High Water Storage and Organic Wealth

Organic matter levels are healthy at 2.49%, well above the Kansas average of 2.22%. More impressively, the available water capacity of 0.195 in/in significantly beats the state average of 0.180. This means the soil acts like a sponge, keeping plants hydrated through dry spells.

Optimal Hydrology for Local Producers

The combination of balanced texture and high water capacity suggests a very stable hydrological environment. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high silt content usually ensures even moisture distribution. This makes the land reliable for both row crops and residential gardening.

Versatile Growing in Zone 6b

Falling in Zone 6b, Ellsworth County is ideal for a diverse range of vegetables and grains. Tomatoes, peppers, and wheat all thrive in this nutrient-rich, neutral soil. With such high soil quality, now is a great time to expand your home garden or orchard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ellsworth County

via LawnByCounty

Balanced Growing Conditions in Ellsworth County

Ellsworth County earns a lawn difficulty score of 59.6, placing it right in line with the Kansas state average. Located in Hardiness Zone 6b, the area provides a moderate environment that is easier to manage than the national median. Success here depends on balancing seasonal moisture with summer heat protection.

Managing Moderate Rainfall and Summer Heat

The county averages 29.6 inches of rain annually, nearly hitting the 30-inch ideal target for healthy turf. Lawns must endure 60 days of extreme heat over 90°F, slightly exceeding the state average of 58 days. This climate supports 4,064 growing degree days, offering a productive window for both cool and warm-season grasses.

Ideal Soil pH for Healthy Turf

With a soil pH of 6.64, Ellsworth County offers an ideal chemical foundation for most common grass varieties. The physical structure consists of 22.7% clay and 24.3% sand, providing a stable medium for root development. While drainage class data is not specified, this balanced texture typically supports good water infiltration.

Preparing for Significant Dry Periods

The county faced 19 weeks of drought conditions over the past year, though current reports show the area is now clear. This history of dry spells suggests that installing a smart irrigation system or rain sensors is a wise investment. Maintaining a taller mowing height can help shade the soil and retain moisture during future droughts.

Timing the Season in Zone 6b

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are well-suited for this region's 6b hardiness zone. Aim to seed or sod after the last expected spring frost on April 23 to ensure the best germination rates. Your soil pH gives you a head start, so focus your efforts on consistent hydration and mowing.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ellsworth County's county score?
Ellsworth County, Kansas has a composite county score of 52.5 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 Ellsworth County rank among counties in Kansas?
Ellsworth County ranks #46 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 Ellsworth County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Ellsworth County is $1,766, with an effective tax rate of 1.52%. This earns Ellsworth County a tax score of 12.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ellsworth County?
The median household income in Ellsworth County, Kansas is $66,792 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ellsworth County earns an income score of 58.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ellsworth County, Kansas a good place to live?
Ellsworth County scores 52.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #46 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Ellsworth 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 Ellsworth 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.