countyscore
53.7
County Score
Disaster Risk 98.1Safety 88.9Income & Jobs 82.4

County Report Card

About Greeley County, Kansas

Stronger than National Median

Greeley County secures a 53.7 composite score, comfortably surpassing the national median of 50.0. This indicates a resilient community that outperforms many other rural counties.

Leading Western Kansas

At 53.7, Greeley outpaces the Kansas state average of 49.5. It stands out as a high-performing pocket in the western part of the state.

Low Risk, High Reward

Environmental stability is nearly unmatched, with a Risk score of 98.1 and a Safety score of 88.9. The local economy is also strong, boasting an Income score of 82.4 and a median household income of $78,819.

Water and Tax Burdens

Water scarcity is a major issue, resulting in a low Water score of 1.8. Furthermore, the 1.910% effective tax rate is among the state's higher burdens, leading to a Tax score of 4.0.

A Stable, High-Income Retreat

Greeley is a great fit for individuals who want a safe, quiet environment with minimal environmental risk. The trade-off is a higher tax bill and limited water resources.

Score breakdown

Tax4Cost56.1Safety88.9Health62Schools37.4Income82.4Risk98.1Water1.8Weather36.3
🏛4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠56.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡88.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓37.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡98.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧1.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.9
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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Deep Dives

Greeley County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Greeley County

via TaxByCounty

Greeley County has the region's highest tax rate

Greeley County's effective rate of 1.910% stands well above both the national median of roughly 0.96% and Kansas's state average of 1.549%, making it one of Kansas's priciest counties for property taxes. The median tax bill of $2,080 is lower than the national median of $2,690 only because homes are significantly less valuable ($108,900 vs. $281,900 nationally).

Greeley ranks highest in Kansas for tax rate

At 1.910%, Greeley County's effective rate is among the highest in all 105 Kansas counties. This places it decisively above the state average of 1.549% and above the median tax bill of $1,943, creating a notably heavier tax burden on county residents.

Greeley County leads region in effective tax rate

Greeley's 1.910% rate significantly exceeds all nearby western Kansas counties, including Graham (1.732%), Gray (1.409%), Grant (1.307%), and Harper (1.784%). For property owners in this region, Greeley represents the most tax-expensive choice.

Greeley County homeowner pays $2,080 annually

A median Greeley County home valued at $108,900 combined with the county's 1.910% effective rate produces an estimated annual tax of $2,080. Those with mortgages may see bills climb to $3,022 after all local levies are assessed.

Greeley County residents should definitely appeal overassessments

Given Greeley's high effective rate, any overassessment of your property has an outsized impact on your annual tax bill. Contacting the county assessor to request a reassessment or appeal could yield meaningful savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Greeley County

via CostByCounty

Greeley strikes national affordability target

Greeley County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national 12-14% comfort zone, reflecting balanced housing costs and strong incomes. At $78,819, median household income exceeds the national average of $74,755, leaving renters roughly $10,800 annually for housing.

Solid performer in Kansas market

Greeley County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio runs about one percentage point below Kansas's state average of 14.7%, marking it as fairly affordable statewide. The county's strong incomes underpin this advantage.

Higher rents, highest incomes

At $915 monthly rent and $78,819 income, Greeley County charges the steepest rents among western Kansas peers yet offers the second-highest incomes, resulting in a 13.9% ratio. Grant County stays cheaper at $696 rent but with $5,485 less annual income, while Gray County's $833 rent on higher income ($77,885) creates nearly identical affordability.

Ownership dramatically undercuts rent

This county flips the typical script: monthly homeowner costs ($678) run $237 below rent ($915), consuming just 10.3% of income versus 13.9% for renters. Median home value of $108,900 suggests strong entry-level buying power, making ownership the clear budget winner here.

Buyers' paradise in western Kansas

Greeley County's $678 monthly ownership costs are unbeatable in the region, making it ideal for those ready to transition from renting to owning. If you're earning near the county's $78,819 median, buying here frees up $237 monthly versus renting—a compelling $2,850 annual saving.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Greeley County

via IncomeByCounty

Greeley exceeds the national average

Greeley County's median household income of $78,819 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by $4,064, placing it solidly above the national benchmark. For a sparsely populated rural county, this performance is exceptional.

Top tier earner among Kansas counties

Greeley County ranks among Kansas's highest-income counties at $78,819, outpacing the state median of $64,428 by nearly $14,400. This positions Greeley in the top income tier statewide.

Region's strongest income performer

Greeley County's $78,819 leads the southwestern region, slightly ahead of Gray County ($77,885) and outpacing Grant ($72,484), Harvey ($73,269), and all other neighbors. Only Gray comes close to matching this robust income level.

Excellent housing affordability ratio

Greeley County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.9% sits well below the 15% threshold, giving residents substantial financial flexibility for other expenses. A median home value of $108,900 remains highly accessible for households earning nearly $79,000.

Strong position for aggressive investing

Greeley County's $78,819 median income and excellent affordability metrics create an ideal foundation for building substantial wealth through diversified investments. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions, exploring real estate opportunities, and developing a comprehensive financial plan with a professional advisor.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Greeley County

via CrimeByCounty

One of the nation's safest areas

Greeley County holds an elite safety score of 99.6, making it one of the safest jurisdictions in the country. The total crime rate of 234.6 per 100,000 people is a mere fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Far safer than the state average

Greeley's safety score far exceeds the Kansas average of 98.0. Its total crime rate is more than five times lower than the state average of 1,282.2 per 100,000 residents.

Safety in a single-agency county

This county reports lower crime rates than its western Kansas neighbor Hamilton County. Note that these figures come from a single reporting agency, so they reflect focused local enforcement patterns.

Extremely low incident volumes

Violent crime is minimal at 78.2 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 156.4. These numbers represent extremely low incident volumes compared to both state and national trends.

Keep Greeley County secure

With such low crime rates, community vigilance is the best defense. Simple habits like locking vehicles and sharing travel plans with neighbors help keep Greeley County among the state's safest.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Greeley County

via HealthByCounty

Greeley County health snapshot

While Greeley County's life expectancy data is not currently available, the county's 13.9% poor/fair health rate is favorable—below both the U.S. national average of approximately 18% and the Kansas state average. This suggests residents experience relatively good self-reported health status overall.

Strong health perception in northwest Kansas

Greeley County's 13.9% poor/fair health rate is among the best in Kansas, better than the state average and most surrounding counties. The county's uninsured rate of 11.7% is nearly in line with Kansas's 11.5% state average, indicating solid health coverage.

Greeley excels in coverage and provider access

Greeley County's 11.7% uninsured rate is the lowest among nearby counties like Grant (17.5%), Gray (17.9%), and Hamilton (19.9%), reflecting better coverage. With 77 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Greeley offers robust primary care access comparable to Graham County's 83 per 100K.

Well-covered residents enjoy good primary care

With an uninsured rate of 11.7% just above Kansas's state average, most Greeley County residents maintain health coverage. Primary care access is strong at 77 providers per 100,000 residents, ensuring residents can find routine medical care, though mental health provider data is not currently available.

Protect your health with coverage

Even in a well-insured county like Greeley, the 11.7% uninsured rate means some residents lack coverage. If you're among them, exploring your options through Healthcare.gov or Kansas Medicaid can connect you with affordable plans and routine care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Greeley County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Learning in Greeley County

Greeley County maintains a simple educational footprint with just two schools serving 243 total students. This single-district system includes one elementary school and one high school for the entire community.

Room for Academic Growth

The county currently sees a 75.0% graduation rate, which sits below the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $8,405, while the composite school score of 48.7 indicates opportunities for district improvement.

Unified Greeley County Schools

Greeley County Schools manages the education of all 243 students in the county. With zero charter schools, the district provides a traditional public school experience for all local residents.

A Truly Rural Campus Feel

Both schools are categorized as rural, with an average enrollment of just 122 students per building. Greeley County Jr./Sr. High (123 students) and Greeley County Elementary (120 students) offer nearly identical, small-scale environments.

Rural Living and Local Schools

Those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle will find Greeley County's small student-to-teacher ratios appealing. Homes in this area offer immediate access to the centralized K-12 campus.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Greeley County

via RiskByCounty

Greeley County: Among Safest in America

Greeley County's composite risk score of 1.97 ranks among the lowest in the nation, making it substantially safer than the typical U.S. county. Residents enjoy exceptional protection from major natural disaster threats across virtually all hazard types.

Kansas's Safest County by Far

With a composite risk score of 1.97 versus Kansas's state average of 29.89, Greeley County is the safest county in the state by a wide margin. This exceptional low-risk profile stands out dramatically even in a state with many safe communities.

Unmatched Safety Across the Region

Greeley County's score of 1.97 is far lower than any neighboring county, including Graham County (4.33), Hamilton County (4.10), and Grant County (13.55). The county enjoys unparalleled natural disaster safety in western Kansas.

Tornado Risk Tops Your Low-Risk Profile

Even in Greeley County's remarkably safe environment, tornado risk at 13.84 and wildfire risk at 6.27 represent your primary natural hazards. Both scores remain minimal compared to state and national averages, reflecting the county's exceptional overall resilience.

Basic Coverage Provides Comprehensive Protection

Standard homeowners and renters insurance provides robust protection for Greeley County residents given the county's exceptional low-risk profile. Review your policy annually to maintain adequate coverage, but you can feel confident that natural disaster risk poses minimal financial threat to your property.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Greeley County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler, High-Altitude Climate

Greeley County is cooler than much of the country, with an average temperature of 52.4°F. It is also quite dry, receiving only 18.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is less than half of many coastal regions.

One of the State's Coolest Counties

The county's 52.4°F average is significantly lower than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. It also ranks among the driest, receiving 12.3 inches less rain than the typical Kansas county.

The Snowiest in the Region

Greeley County sees 21.7 inches of snow, more than double the snowfall in Harper County. It is also noticeably cooler than neighboring Hamilton County, which averages 53.4°F.

Brief Summers and Snowy Winters

Despite 66 days of extreme heat, the summer average remains a moderate 74.2°F. Winters are cold and relatively long, with a January average of 30.5°F and the highest snowfall in the group at 21.7 inches.

Winter Preparedness is Mandatory

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is a necessity for the 21.7-inch annual snowfall. Residents must also prepare for 66 days of high heat by ensuring cooling systems are serviced before the July peak.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Greeley County

via SoilByCounty

Deep Mollisols of the High Plains

Greeley County is home to Mollisols, the dark, fertile soils that define the American breadbasket. Its pH of 7.48 is quite alkaline, significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. This chemical signature is ideal for many grain crops.

Silt-Rich Fine Sandy Loam

The soil composition is 50.8% silt, 28.8% sand, and 20.4% clay. Classified as a fine sandy loam, it offers a smooth texture that resists compaction better than heavy clay. The high silt content is a hallmark of the region's wind-blown loess deposits.

Excellent Water Storage Potential

Available water capacity is impressive at 0.195 in/in, beating the state average of 0.180. While organic matter is lower at 1.64%, the soil's ability to hold moisture is a major asset. This makes the land resilient during typical Kansas dry spells.

Well-Drained Ground for Builders

These soils are well-drained and fall into Hydrologic Group A, indicating high infiltration rates. This reduces the risk of standing water and makes the area suitable for various construction projects. Efficient drainage also helps prevent salt buildup in the soil.

Growing in Hardiness Zone 6a

Zone 6a enables a robust growing season for cool-season grasses and winter wheat. Native sunflowers and coneflowers will appreciate the alkaline, well-drained soil. It is a fantastic environment for anyone looking to cultivate the prairie.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Greeley County

via LawnByCounty

Western Border Challenges in Greeley County

Greeley County presents a difficulty score of 48.9, reflecting the challenges of lawn care on the state's western edge. This Zone 6a environment is tougher than the national average and significantly trails the state average of 59.1. Success requires careful selection of species that can handle the high-altitude prairie conditions.

Short Growing Seasons and Low Moisture

Greeley County is dry, receiving only 18.0 inches of annual precipitation against 66 days of extreme heat. With 3415 growing degree days, the biological window for growth is tighter than in other parts of the state. The 52.4°F average annual temperature masks a climate of extremes that requires specific mowing and watering adjustments.

Fine Sandy Loams with Excellent Drainage

The soil is classified as a fine sandy loam and is officially well-drained, which is a double-edged sword in a dry climate. A pH of 7.48 is quite alkaline, making it one of the more basic soils in the region. To prevent grass from yellowing, you may need to apply iron-rich fertilizers to compensate for the high pH locking out nutrients.

Thriving Despite 12 Weeks of Drought

The county endured 12 weeks in drought over the past year, highlighting the need for xeriscaping or drought-tolerant turf. While no current area is listed as dry, the low 18-inch rainfall total means water is always a precious resource. Grouping plants with similar water needs can help optimize your irrigation and keep the lawn alive.

Timing the Greeley County Frosts

Due to a later spring frost on May 4 and an early fall frost on October 11, the growing window is compressed. Tall fescue or hardy wheatgrass varieties are well-suited to the 6a hardiness zone and sandy loam texture. Ensure any new seeding is completed early in the fall to allow roots to establish before the October freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greeley County's county score?
Greeley County, Kansas has a composite county score of 53.7 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 Greeley County rank among counties in Kansas?
Greeley County ranks #41 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 Greeley County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Greeley County is $2,080, with an effective tax rate of 1.91%. This earns Greeley County a tax score of 4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Greeley County?
The median household income in Greeley County, Kansas is $78,819 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Greeley County earns an income score of 82.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Greeley County, Kansas a good place to live?
Greeley County scores 53.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #41 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Greeley 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 Greeley 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.