countyscore
33.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 67.6Schools 52.3Lawn Care 49.5

County Report Card

About Ford County, Kansas

Well Below National Standards

Ford County’s composite score of 33.1 sits well below the national median of 50.0. This suggests that the county faces more livability challenges than the average American community.

Lower Than the Kansas Average

At 33.1, Ford County underperforms compared to the Kansas state average of 49.5. However, its strong middle-class income levels provide a solid base for resident spending power.

Economic Stability and Education

The county’s greatest asset is its Income Score of 67.6, supported by a respectable median household income of $70,495. A School Score of 52.3 also indicates that education remains a prioritized community pillar.

Taxation and Safety Hurdles

High taxes are a burden here, with a Tax Score of 8.4 and an effective rate of 1.650%. Safety also presents a challenge, as seen in the low score of 19.3 compared to state neighbors.

Suitable for Working Families

Ford County is a practical choice for workforce families who value steady income and decent schools. Residents must be prepared for a higher tax environment and lower safety rankings in exchange for local job opportunities.

Score breakdown

Tax8.4Cost41.5Safety19.3Health29.6Schools52.3Income67.6Risk48.3Water21.4Weather46.5
🏛8.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠41.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓52.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡48.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨42.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.5
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

Hodgeman County
Kansas
57.3
Gray County
Kansas
52.6
Clark County
Kansas
49
Kiowa County
Kansas
59
Edwards County
Kansas
50.4
Meade County
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Pawnee County
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Comanche County
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Deep Dives

Ford County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ford County

via TaxByCounty

Ford County well below national tax rates

Ford County's 1.650% effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 2.690%, placing the county in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties. At $2,190 in median property tax, Ford County charges less than the national median of $2,690 despite having moderately valued homes.

Above Kansas average, but still favorable

Ford County's 1.650% effective rate exceeds Kansas's state average of 1.549% by 0.101 percentage points, placing it in the higher tier statewide. The $2,190 median tax is well below the state median of $1,943, a gap explained by Ford County's higher-valued properties.

Mid-range rates in western Kansas region

Ford County's 1.650% rate falls between Ellis County's 1.223% low and Elk County's 1.988% high, making it a solid middle option regionally. Compared to similarly situated Finney County (1.430%), Ford County carries a modestly higher burden.

Ford County homeowners pay $2,190 annually

On Ford County's median home value of $132,700, property owners owe approximately $2,190 per year, or $2,629 with mortgage interest deductions factored in. This represents a reasonable tax expense for the region's property values.

Many Ford County assessments may be high

Studies show roughly 20% of Kansas properties are overassessed, and Ford County homeowners should request a reassessment if their home's market value has declined. Filing an appeal with supporting evidence of comparable sales could result in substantial annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ford County

via CostByCounty

Ford County housing remains fairly affordable

At 16.3%, Ford County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the Kansas state average of 14.7%, indicating manageable affordability stress. With $960 monthly rents and a $70,495 median household income, residents maintain a reasonable housing-to-income balance compared to national benchmarks.

Ford County near Kansas state average

Ford County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio tracks just above the Kansas mean of 14.7%, placing it in the middle tier for state affordability. Rents of $960/month exceed the state median by $173, though a solid $70,495 household income provides economic stability.

Ford County pricing balanced in region

Ford County's $960 rent falls between Finney County's $991 and Franklin County's $949, making it a moderate option in southwest Kansas. Home values of $132,700 rank lower than Finney ($191,100) and Ellis ($211,100), offering better entry-point pricing for homebuyers.

Homeownership offers better value than renting

Renters spend 16.3% of income on rent ($960/month), while homeowners pay just $836 monthly—a $124 monthly advantage. This gap makes Ford County particularly attractive for first-time buyers seeking both affordability and long-term wealth-building.

Ford County appeals to homebuyers

If you're considering the move to southwest Kansas, Ford County offers cheaper homeownership than renting—a rare advantage. Compare median home values ($132,700) and owner costs ($836/month) to pricier Finney County before deciding where to plant roots.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ford County

via IncomeByCounty

Ford County income nearly matches nation

Ford County's median household income of $70,495 falls about $4,260 short of the national median of $74,755. This 6% gap is among the smallest in rural Kansas, positioning Ford as a relative income success story.

Top earner in Kansas

At $70,495, Ford County ranks among the highest-earning counties in Kansas, surpassing the state average of $64,428 by $6,067. Ford's 9% advantage reflects a strong regional economy driven by agriculture and local business.

Among regional income leaders

Ford County ($70,495) ranks second in this eight-county cluster, trailing only Finney ($72,437) by just $1,942. Ford's strong performance places it ahead of Franklin ($72,142)—which it nearly matches—and all other neighbors.

Modest housing cost burden

Ford County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio reflects reasonable housing affordability, though median home values of $132,700 represent substantial assets. Households maintain healthy budgets while building equity in properties.

Strong income supports long-term planning

Ford County residents enjoy near-national income levels, enabling robust financial planning beyond basics. Establish diversified investment portfolios, maximize retirement savings, and consider real estate investments to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ford County

via CrimeByCounty

Ford County maintains safety below national crime levels

Ford County reports a total crime rate of 2,110.4 per 100,000, staying below the national average of 2,385.5. The county carries a safety score of 96.7 out of 100. Local law enforcement works effectively to manage safety in this busy agricultural and industrial hub.

Safety metrics trail the Kansas state average

The county's safety score of 96.7 is lower than the Kansas state average of 98.0. At 2,110.4 crimes per 100,000, Ford County's crime rate is higher than the state average of 1,282.2. Five reporting agencies provide the data necessary to track and combat these trends.

Ford County crime outpaces many Kansas neighbors

Ford County's total crime rate of 2,110.4 per 100,000 is significantly higher than the state average of 1,282.2. While it remains safer than the nation as a whole, it experiences more frequent incidents than the state's most rural counties. This activity often aligns with the county's role as a major regional trade center.

Property and violent crimes exceed state norms

Property crimes make up 1,753.8 of the local crime rate, while violent crime sits at 356.6 per 100,000. Both categories are higher than the Kansas averages of 1,282.2 (total) and 235.9 (violent). These rates highlight the ongoing challenge of managing safety in a high-density regional center.

Enhancing security for Ford County residents

With a property crime rate of 1,753.8, residents should prioritize home security systems and visible signage to deter theft. Simple habits like locking all entry points and using smart lighting can make a major difference in safety. Five local agencies are available to help residents develop better security strategies.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ford County

via HealthByCounty

Ford County confronts acute health crisis

Ford County's 76.1-year life expectancy is 3.9 years below the U.S. average, and an alarming 24.1% of residents report poor or fair health—the highest rate among Kansas counties analyzed. This concentration of illness suggests serious public health challenges requiring urgent attention.

Ford County ranks worst in state performance

At 76.1 years, Ford County ties for the second-lowest life expectancy in Kansas (behind Geary at 72.7), with the highest poor/fair health rate (24.1%) among all Kansas counties. This dual burden signals the most acute health crisis in the state.

Ford County health crisis deepest in region

Ford County's 24.1% poor/fair health rate and 76.1-year life expectancy represent the worst outcomes in southwest Kansas, slightly worse even than Finney County (22.9%, 76.2 years). This suggests Ford County faces distinct, amplified health challenges compared to its neighbors.

Uninsured rate highest among peers

Ford County's 16.4% uninsured rate is the second-highest in the analysis and 4.9 points above the state average, leaving one in six residents without coverage. Despite 53 primary care and 115 mental health providers per 100,000, financial and systemic barriers appear to block access.

Coverage is your first step forward

Nearly 1 in 6 Ford County residents are uninsured; visit Healthcare.gov, Kansas DHCF, or call 211 to explore all available options including Medicaid expansion eligibility. Coverage enables the preventive care and chronic disease management that can turn Ford County's health trajectory around.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ford County

via SchoolsByCounty

Historic Dodge City Leads the Way

Ford County operates 15 public schools across 3 districts, providing education for 7,801 students. The county is anchored by 10 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 3 high schools. This network serves as a critical academic foundation for the Dodge City area and surrounding rural towns.

Beating State and National Averages

The county achieves a strong 90.0% graduation rate, surpassing both the Kansas average of 88.7% and the national mark of 87%. It maintains a school score of 54.7, just under the state average of 57.2. These results are achieved with lean spending of $7,563 per pupil, which is significantly lower than the national average.

Dodge City District Dominates Enrollment

The Dodge City school district is the largest, enrolling 7,233 students across 11 schools. Spearville and Bucklin districts offer smaller environments, serving 342 and 226 students respectively. There are currently no charter schools in Ford County, as traditional districts provide all public schooling.

A Mix of Large Town Hubs

With 8 town-based schools and 7 rural ones, the county has a balanced locale mix and an average school size of 520 students. Dodge City High School is the largest campus with 2,084 students, while Miller Elementary also maintains a large population of 774. This gives the county a high-energy, bustling school atmosphere compared to its neighbors.

Plant Roots Near High-Performing Schools

With a 90% graduation rate, Ford County is an excellent choice for homebuyers who value proven academic outcomes. The schools in Dodge City offer the resources of a larger system, while Spearville and Bucklin provide quiet, smaller alternatives. Explore homes here to give your children an edge in a high-performing Kansas district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ford County

via RiskByCounty

Ford County faces elevated disaster risk

Ford County's composite risk score of 51.69 and Relatively Low rating show substantially higher hazard exposure than the typical American county. Residents experience roughly 70% more combined disaster risk than the national average.

Above Kansas average but mid-range statewide

At 51.69, Ford County exceeds Kansas's state average of 29.89, placing it in the upper-middle tier of the state's risk rankings. About half of Kansas counties face greater disaster risk.

Higher risk than most regional peers

Ford County's score surpasses neighboring Seward and Meade counties, driven particularly by its elevated tornado and wildfire exposure. The southwestern county's plains location concentrates multiple hazard types.

Tornadoes and wildfires drive risk profile

Tornado risk scores 71.31 and wildfire exposure reaches 68.03, making these Ford County's primary disaster threats. Flooding at 37.50 and earthquakes at 30.06 present secondary but meaningful risks.

Multi-hazard coverage provides essential protection

Ford County residents should invest in comprehensive homeowners insurance with strong tornado and wildfire coverage, plus a certified safe room. Adding flood insurance significantly strengthens protection across the county's full hazard spectrum.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ford County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperatures and Low Rainfall

Ford County’s 55.9°F average temperature is warmer than the national median. It is a dry region, receiving only 23.2 inches of precipitation annually.

Exceeding the State Temperature Average

At 55.9°F, Ford County is more than a degree warmer than the Kansas average of 54.8°F. It remains drier than the state average, which typically sees 30.3 inches of rain.

Consistently Hot in Western Kansas

The county experiences 71 days of extreme heat, far outpacing the 56 days seen in neighboring Gove County. Its 23.2 inches of rain is typical for the western third of the state.

Intense Sun and Snowy Winters

July is the hottest month with an 80.1°F average and frequent 90°F+ days. Despite the heat, the county still sees a significant 16.8 inches of snow during the winter months.

Prepare for Extreme Temperature Swings

Ensure home cooling systems can handle 71 days of extreme heat. Winterize vehicles and homes for the 16.8 inches of snow and sub-freezing January nights.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ford County

via SoilByCounty

High pH Soils in the High Plains

Ford County averages a pH of 7.25, which is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.80. The county's soil score of 42.8 reflects the semi-arid environment of southwest Kansas. These soils often require specific management to make phosphorus and iron available to plants.

A Sandy and Silty Blend

The soil contains 39.2% sand and 40.7% silt, creating a light texture that doesn't easily crust. Clay makes up only 20.1% of the profile, which is lower than many eastern counties. This mix allows for easy tilling but reduces the soil's ability to lock in nutrients over the long term.

Lower Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter stands at 1.69%, which is less than the state average of 2.22%. Similarly, the available water capacity of 0.173 in/in is below the state benchmark of 0.180. These numbers indicate that the soil requires supplemental inputs to maintain high productivity.

Well-Drained Ground for Western Farming

With a high sand percentage, Ford County soils generally drain well, reducing the risk of waterlogged fields. While specific hydrologic data is not provided, the coarse texture is characteristic of the High Plains landscape. This drainage profile is excellent for preventing salt buildup but requires efficient irrigation.

Tough Plants for a Zone 6b Climate

Hardiness Zone 6b supports winter wheat, cotton, and various types of milo. For home gardeners, raised beds with added organic material can bypass the lean native soil. Planting windbreaks and using drip irrigation will help your garden thrive in the Dodge City area.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ford County

via LawnByCounty

High Effort Required for Ford County Lawns

A lawn difficulty score of 49.5 indicates that growing turf here is more demanding than in most of Kansas. Sitting in Hardiness Zone 6b, the county faces environmental hurdles that fall below the state’s 59.1 average score. Homeowners must be proactive with irrigation and soil management to maintain healthy grass.

Arid Climate and Intense Summer Sun

Ford County receives 23.2 inches of rain annually, which is significantly lower than the 30-inch ideal for lawns. The area faces 71 days of extreme heat, far exceeding the state average of 58 days. The 4,220 growing degree days mean a long season of growth, but only if you can provide enough water to keep pace.

Managing Sandy and Alkaline Soil Profiles

The soil pH is 7.25, placing it on the alkaline side of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. With a high sand content of 39.2% and 20.1% clay, the soil likely drains quickly, requiring more frequent watering during heat waves. Although specific drainage data is missing, the high sand percentage suggests a need for moisture-retaining amendments.

Current Dryness Requires Careful Monitoring

About 1.8% of the county is currently abnormally dry, and the region spent 10 weeks in drought over the last year. Focus on deep-root watering techniques to prepare your turf for the 71 days of high heat it will face. Utilizing xeriscaping for non-essential areas can help focus your water budget on the main lawn.

Wait for Warm Soil in Late April

Bermuda grass and Buffalograss are the most resilient choices for Ford County's climate and Zone 6b rating. Aim to start your projects after April 21 when the threat of spring frost typically ends. Selecting these heat-tolerant varieties is the most effective way to combat the local weather extremes.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ford County's county score?
Ford County, Kansas has a composite county score of 33.1 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 Ford County rank among counties in Kansas?
Ford County ranks #101 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 Ford County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Ford County is $2,190, with an effective tax rate of 1.65%. This earns Ford County a tax score of 8.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ford County?
The median household income in Ford County, Kansas is $70,495 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ford County earns an income score of 67.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ford County, Kansas a good place to live?
Ford County scores 33.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #101 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Ford 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 Ford County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.