countyscore
46.7
County Score
Cost of Living 79.3Disaster Risk 68.7Lawn Care 59.9

County Report Card

About Harper County, Kansas

Below the National Median

Harper County posts a composite score of 46.7, trailing the national median of 50.0. This suggests there are specific areas where the county faces more significant hurdles than the average U.S. county.

Challenging State Ranking

The score of 46.7 falls below the Kansas state average of 49.5. Residents here find a lower cost of living but face more challenges in other quality-of-life dimensions.

Exceptional Housing Costs

Housing affordability is a major draw, earning a Cost score of 79.3 with median rents at just $693. The county also maintains a decent Risk score of 68.7, indicating moderate environmental stability.

Taxes and Low Incomes

Tax and health scores are low at 5.4 and 36.1, respectively, which can weigh on household budgets. The median household income of $55,417 leads to a lower Income score of 26.1.

Affordability over Income

Harper County is best suited for individuals who need very low-cost housing and can tolerate higher tax rates. It offers a quiet lifestyle for those whose priorities are financial accessibility over high income.

Score breakdown

Tax5.4Cost79.3Safety52.8Health36.1Schools51.3Income26.1Risk68.7Water25.3Weather51.9
🏛5.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠79.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡52.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤36.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡68.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59.9
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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Barber County
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Sedgwick County
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Pratt County
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Deep Dives

Harper County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harper County

via TaxByCounty

Harper County has above-average property tax rate

Harper County's effective rate of 1.784% significantly exceeds the national median of roughly 0.96% and tops Kansas's state average of 1.549%. The median tax bill of $1,379 is far below the national median of $2,690, primarily because Harper homes are valued much lower at just $77,300.

Harper ranks above Kansas state average

At 1.784%, Harper County's effective rate places it solidly in the upper half of Kansas's 105 counties, exceeding the state average of 1.549%. The median tax of $1,379 is below the state median of $1,943 due to lower property values.

Harper County taxes are mid-range for the region

Harper's 1.784% rate falls between Graham County (1.732%) and Greeley County (1.910%), positioning it firmly in the upper half of western Kansas counties. The median tax of $1,379 is nearly identical to Greenwood County's $1,360, offering similar affordability.

Harper County resident pays $1,379 in taxes

On Harper County's median home value of $77,300, the 1.784% effective rate produces an estimated annual tax of $1,379. Homeowners with mortgages may see bills rise to approximately $1,741 after local levies are included.

Harper County homeowners should appeal overassessments

With above-average effective rates, Harper County homeowners benefit from closely reviewing their assessments. If your assessed value seems inflated, contacting the county assessor about an appeal could lower your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harper County

via CostByCounty

Harper's income pinch limits affordability

Harper County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national 12-14% comfort zone, driven by incomes of just $55,417 against the national average of $74,755. Renters here dedicate roughly $8,290 annually to housing costs.

Below-average statewide affordability

At 15.0%, Harper County's rent-to-income ratio runs above Kansas's state average of 14.7%, reflecting tight financial margins for renters. Monthly rent of $693 is the lowest in the region, yet doesn't fully offset income challenges.

Cheapest rents, lowest incomes

Harper County offers the region's most budget-friendly rents ($693), but its $55,417 median income is the lowest among western Kansas peers, resulting in a 15.0% ratio that exceeds affordable Grant ($696 rent, 11.5% ratio). Greenwood and Graham offer similar affordability structures with slightly better incomes.

Renting and owning cost nearly the same

Monthly rent ($693) and homeowner costs ($685) are virtually identical, each consuming roughly 15% of income for renters and 14.8% for owners. Homes value at just $77,300—the lowest in the region—making Harper ideal for budget-conscious buyers but offering limited wealth-building.

Lowest-cost option for ultra-tight budgets

Harper County's sub-$700 rents and $77,300 homes serve those prioritizing absolute minimum housing expenses over long-term equity gains. If household income is below $60,000 and affordability trumps all other factors, Harper delivers Kansas's flattest housing costs—but explore nearby Greenwood or Grant for marginally better income prospects.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harper County

via IncomeByCounty

Harper significantly lags national income

Harper County's median household income of $55,417 falls nearly $19,400 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it among the lower-income counties nationally. This substantial gap reflects limited economic diversification in the rural county.

Among Kansas's lowest-income counties

Harper County ranks in the lower tier of Kansas counties at $55,417, trailing the state median of $64,428 by over $9,000. Only a handful of Kansas counties report lower income levels.

Weakest income in the region

Harper County's $55,417 income ranks among the lowest in southwestern Kansas, outpacing only Graham County ($52,909). Grant ($72,484), Gray ($77,885), Greeley ($78,819), and Harvey ($73,269) all significantly outperform Harper's earnings.

Housing costs press on limited incomes

Harper County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.0% sits right at the affordability threshold, meaning housing consumes a significant portion of household earnings. A median home value of $77,300 offers accessibility, but affordability remains tight for many residents.

Focus on financial stability first

Harper County residents earning $55,417 should prioritize securing stable employment and building basic emergency savings before considering investments. Connect with local nonprofit financial counselors to create manageable budgets and explore skill-building opportunities that can increase long-term earnings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harper County

via CrimeByCounty

A reliable record of safety

Harper County has a safety score of 98.3, keeping it well ahead of national norms. Its total crime rate of 1,062.9 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5 per 100,000 residents.

Exceeding the state average

The county's safety score of 98.3 beats the Kansas average of 98.0. At 1,062.9 crimes per 100,000, Harper County remains safer than the state average of 1,282.2.

Comprehensive safety data

Harper shows a higher crime rate than neighbors like Gray County but maintains high safety levels overall. Three different reporting agencies contribute to this data, providing a comprehensive view of local safety.

Low violent crime rates

Property crime accounts for 934.6 per 100,000, which is less than half the national property crime rate. Violent crime is rare, sitting at 128.3 compared to the national average of 369.8.

Secure your valuables

Since property crime is the most frequent issue, residents should focus on securing valuables. Simple deterrents like doorbell cameras can be highly effective in rural and suburban settings.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harper County

via HealthByCounty

Harper County faces health perception challenges

Harper County residents live to 74.8 years on average, 1.6 years below the U.S. national average of 76.4 years. Most strikingly, 21.8% of residents report poor or fair health—the highest rate among all counties studied and well above the national average of approximately 18%.

Highest poor/fair health rate in Kansas

Harper County's 21.8% poor/fair health rate is the worst among all Kansas counties studied, significantly exceeding the state average. While the uninsured rate of 11.8% is near the state average of 11.5%, the elevated health challenges suggest deeper issues beyond coverage.

Health perception worst in the region

Harper County's 21.8% poor/fair health rate substantially exceeds neighboring Grant (19.1%), Gray (16.6%), and Hamilton (18%), indicating distinct health disadvantages. Life expectancy at 74.8 years also trails Grant (77.8) and Gray (77.5) counties, though mental health access at 37 per 100K is reasonable.

Good coverage, but health challenges persist

Harper County's uninsured rate of 11.8% is near the state average, so coverage barriers alone don't explain the county's elevated poor/fair health rate. With 56 primary care providers and 37 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, access is moderate, suggesting underlying health or socioeconomic factors driving poor outcomes.

Keep insurance active and access preventive care

While most Harper County residents have coverage, the high poor/fair health rate underscores the importance of using that coverage for preventive care and regular checkups. Ensure your plan is active, and work with your provider to address chronic conditions early.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harper County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Education Across Harper County

Harper County provides six public schools for 1,002 total students, managed by two school districts. The county features three elementary schools and three high schools, emphasizing a rural education model.

Strong Investment Despite Grad Rate Gaps

Harper County invests $9,917 per pupil, which is well above the Kansas state average. However, the graduation rate of 82.8% currently trails both the state and national benchmarks.

Chaparral Schools Support the Majority

Chaparral Schools is the dominant district with 822 students, while the Attica district serves the remaining 180. The county maintains a traditional public school system with no charter schools.

Intimate Rural High Schools

All schools are rural, with an average enrollment of 167 students. Chaparral Jr/Sr High is the largest campus with 350 students, while Attica High remains small and focused with only 53 students.

Family-Ready Homes in Harper County

With high per-pupil spending and small class sizes, Harper County offers a personalized learning environment. Families often look for homes within the Chaparral Schools boundaries to benefit from the county's largest educational infrastructure.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harper County

via RiskByCounty

Harper County: Moderate Risk Profile

Harper County's composite risk score of 31.33 places it at very low risk overall but slightly above the national average. Residents face somewhat elevated natural disaster exposure compared to typical U.S. counties, though the rating remains very low.

Above-Average Risk for Kansas

Harper County's score of 31.33 exceeds Kansas's state average of 29.89, making it a higher-risk county within the state. This positions Harper County in the upper-risk tier of Kansas communities, though still rated very low nationally.

Second-Highest Risk in the Region

Harper County's score of 31.33 ranks it as the second-highest-risk county in its immediate area, exceeded only by nearby Harvey County (38.93). The county faces notably greater disaster exposure than Grant County (13.55) and Graham County (4.33) to the north.

Tornado and Wildfire Top Your Threats

Tornado risk in Harper County reaches 62.72—the county's dominant natural hazard—followed by wildfire risk at 79.48 and earthquake risk at 27.32. Together, these three hazards account for the vast majority of Harper County's natural disaster exposure.

Invest in Storm Shelter and Coverage

Harper County residents should prioritize access to a certified storm shelter or safe room given tornado risk of 62.72 and wildfire risk of 79.48. Ensure your homeowners and renters insurance includes comprehensive wind, hail, and fire coverage with adequate limits for your property value.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harper County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm Southern Kansas Hub

Harper County is warmer than the national median, with an annual average temperature of 57.4°F. Its 32.1 inches of precipitation is typical for the American Midwest, providing a humid-subtropical feel.

Among the Warmest in Kansas

Harper County's 57.4°F average is significantly higher than the state average of 54.8°F. It also receives slightly more precipitation than the state norm, with 32.1 inches annually.

Outheating the Northern Counties

Harper County is much warmer than Greeley County, which stays at a cool 52.4°F average. It also sees far less snow than western neighbors, recording only 9.5 inches per year.

Long, Hot Summers and Milder Winters

July averages a sweltering 81.4°F, contributing to 70 days of extreme heat each year. Winters are the mildest in this group, with a January average of 33.6°F and less than 10 inches of snow.

Equip for Sustained Summer Heat

High July temperatures of 81.4°F require robust air conditioning and energy-efficient windows. Winter gear can be lighter here, as the county receives only 9.5 inches of snow on average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harper County

via SoilByCounty

Ideal pH for Harper County

Harper County features an average pH of 6.69, nearly identical to the national median of 6.5 and state average of 6.80. This balanced acidity is the 'sweet spot' for most plants to absorb essential nutrients. It provides a versatile foundation for both farmers and gardeners.

Coarse and Sandy Loam Character

The soil contains 43.8% sand, 37.7% silt, and 17.3% clay. This creates a coarse texture that is easy to till and warms up quickly in the spring. It offers good aeration for root systems but may drain faster than heavier soils.

Navigating Lower Organic Content

Organic matter is 1.49%, falling short of the state’s 2.22% average. The available water capacity of 0.164 in/in is also slightly below the state benchmark. Using cover crops can help improve these numbers and protect the soil from erosion.

Effective Drainage for Local Land

Though specific drainage classifications are unavailable, the sand-heavy mix suggests a high infiltration rate. This makes the county well-suited for irrigation systems that require consistent water movement. It is generally a reliable surface for rural construction.

Gardening in Warmer Zone 7a

Harper County sits in Zone 7a, allowing for a longer growing season than much of Kansas. This climate is excellent for heat-loving crops like okra, sweet potatoes, and melons. Get your seeds in early to take advantage of the favorable soil pH.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harper County

via LawnByCounty

Southern Comfort for Harper County Lawns

Harper County enjoys a difficulty score of 59.9, placing it slightly above the Kansas state average. As a Zone 7a region, it offers a longer, warmer growing season than its northern neighbors. This score reflects a balance of manageable rainfall and soil conditions that are conducive to healthy lawn growth.

Hot Summers and Long Growing Cycles

Harper County sees 4533 growing degree days, the highest in the region, which supports rapid plant development. Annual precipitation is a healthy 32.1 inches, meeting the baseline requirements for most turfgrass species. However, with 70 days above 90°F, you will still need to provide supplemental water during July and August.

Ideal pH and Sandy Soil Texture

The soil pH of 6.69 is nearly perfect for lawn health, sitting right in the middle of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The soil is quite sandy at 43.8%, which provides excellent drainage but may require more frequent, lighter watering sessions to keep the surface moist. This balanced pH ensures that most standard fertilizers will be highly effective.

Current Dryness in the Southern Tier

While Harper County only saw 9 weeks of drought last year, 100% of its area is currently classified as abnormally dry. This widespread dryness means homeowners should strictly adhere to local watering guidelines to preserve the aquifer. Use the 32.1 inches of average rainfall to your advantage by capturing runoff whenever possible.

Warm-Season Turf for a Long Window

The Zone 7a climate and long growing season are perfect for Bermuda or Zoysia grass varieties. Your planting window is extensive, beginning after April 9 and lasting until the first frost on October 30. This early start date allows for a long establishment phase before the 70 days of extreme heat arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harper County's county score?
Harper County, Kansas has a composite county score of 46.7 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 Harper County rank among counties in Kansas?
Harper County ranks #69 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 Harper County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Harper County is $1,379, with an effective tax rate of 1.78%. This earns Harper County a tax score of 5.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harper County?
The median household income in Harper County, Kansas is $55,417 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harper County earns an income score of 26.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harper County, Kansas a good place to live?
Harper County scores 46.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #69 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Harper 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 Harper 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.