50.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 85Safety 70.6Income & Jobs 64.7

County Report Card

About Haskell County, Kansas

Slightly Above the National Median

Haskell County earns a composite score of 50.3, placing it just above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a quality of life that is competitive with the average American county.

Outperforming the Kansas State Average

With a 50.3 composite score, Haskell County ranks above the Kansas state average of 49.5. It maintains a solid standing among the 105 counties in the state.

Environmental Resilience and Strong Incomes

The county excels in environmental stability with a high risk score of 85.0. Residents also enjoy a healthy income score of 64.7, supported by a median household income of $69,138.

Water Availability and Tax Burdens

Water security is a primary concern with a low score of 6.8. Furthermore, the tax score of 15.7 reflects a higher-than-average effective tax rate of 1.438%.

Best for Stable, High-Income Households

Haskell County is an excellent fit for families who value income growth and environmental safety. It suits those who can navigate a higher tax environment in exchange for economic stability.

2040608010015.754.170.644.553.164.7856.849.6Tax15.7Cost54.1Safety70.6Health44.5Schools53.1Income64.7Risk85Water6.8Weather49.650.3/100
This county
National avg
3 above average2 below average

Haskell County DNA

Foverall

How Haskell County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Haskell County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (85/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (6.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
15.7-36.3
Cost
54.1
Safety
70.6+15.599999999999994
Health
44.5
Schools
53.1
Income
64.7+13.700000000000003
Risk
85+38
Water
6.8-51.2
Weather
49.6
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Haskell County?

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$154,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$776/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$154,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$31,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $69,138/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

54.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Deep Dives

Haskell County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Haskell County

via TaxByCounty

Haskell taxes run below national average

Haskell County's effective tax rate of 1.438% sits well below the national median of 1.83%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties for property tax burden. The median property tax here is $2,226 annually—$464 less than the national median of $2,690—thanks to lower home values averaging $154,800 compared to the national median of $281,900.

Haskell ranks among Kansas's lowest rates

At 1.438%, Haskell's effective tax rate runs slightly below Kansas's state average of 1.549%, placing it in the lower tier of the state's 105 counties. The median property tax of $2,226 exceeds the state average of $1,943, reflecting the county's relatively higher home values despite its lower rate.

Southwest Kansas comparison shows variation

Haskell's 1.438% rate sits below Hodgeman County (1.767%) and Kearny County (1.224%), making it moderate for the region. Among its immediate peers, Haskell homeowners pay notably more in absolute dollars than their Hodgeman neighbors due to higher property values, despite a lower effective rate.

What Haskell homeowners pay annually

A median-value home in Haskell County valued at $154,800 carries an estimated annual property tax bill of $2,226. Mortgage-holding homeowners typically pay $2,313 annually when additional county levies are included.

Many Haskell homeowners can appeal assessments

If your property tax bill seems too high relative to comparable homes, you may be overassessed—a common situation even in low-tax counties. Requesting a reassessment or formal appeal costs nothing and often results in meaningful savings; contact your county assessor's office to learn the process.

Cost of Living in Haskell County

via CostByCounty

Haskell rents are a bargain nationally

At 13.5%, Haskell County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national average and sits comfortably below the threshold where housing becomes unaffordable. Renters here spend roughly $776 monthly on a median household income of $69,138, meaning housing takes up less of their paycheck than it does for most Americans.

Better than average across Kansas

Haskell County ranks favorably within Kansas, where the state average rent-to-income ratio is 14.7%. At 13.5%, this county outperforms that benchmark, suggesting residents enjoy more housing affordability than their counterparts in many other Kansas communities.

Competitive with nearby rural counties

Haskell's $776 monthly rent is slightly below the Kansas state average of $787 and competitive with neighboring Hodgeman County at $900. Homeowners here pay a median monthly cost of $912, reflecting median home values of $154,800 that align with the rural western Kansas market.

Where your housing dollar goes

Renters in Haskell dedicate 13.5% of their $69,138 annual income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 15.8% on monthly ownership costs of $912. This leaves substantial income for other necessities, positioning the county as relatively affordable for both renters and buyers.

Considering a move to western Kansas?

Haskell County offers solid affordability for families seeking lower housing costs without sacrificing income stability. With a median home value of $154,800 and manageable rent levels, it's worth comparing to neighbors like Hodgeman and Kearny counties if you're relocating to rural Kansas.

Income & Jobs in Haskell County

via IncomeByCounty

Haskell Exceeds National Average

Haskell County's median household income of $69,138 sits 7.5% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower-middle tier nationally. This gap reflects rural Kansas realities, where agricultural and small-town economies create different income patterns than national averages. Still, Haskell outperforms many rural peers in the Mountain West and Great Plains.

Above Kansas Average

At $69,138, Haskell's median household income exceeds Kansas's state average of $64,428 by 7.3%, ranking the county in the top third statewide. This strong regional position reflects stable employment and a reasonable cost of living relative to earned income. Haskell stands ahead of the typical Kansas county in household earning power.

Competitive With Neighbors

Haskell County's $69,138 median income outpaces Hodgeman County ($63,125) and Kingman County ($59,819) but trails Jackson County ($72,703) and Jefferson County ($77,393). The $10,000+ gap between Haskell and stronger-performing neighbors suggests differences in employment diversity and wage structures. Haskell remains solidly middle-ground in its regional peer group.

Affordable Housing, Stable Costs

Haskell's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio signals healthy housing affordability—well below the 30% threshold that marks housing burden. A median home value of $154,800 represents 2.2 years of median household income, making homeownership achievable for most working families. This balance between income and cost of living provides real financial stability.

Build Savings While You Can

With manageable housing costs and incomes above state average, Haskell households have room to direct earnings toward retirement and investment accounts. Starting a 401(k) match or Roth IRA now leverages decades of compound growth before retirement. Small, consistent deposits compound significantly when you begin early.

Safety in Haskell County

via CrimeByCounty

Haskell County Outpaces National Safety Standards

Haskell County reports a total crime rate of 696.1 per 100,000 residents, which is nearly 71% lower than the national average. This impressive data earns the county a safety score of 98.9 out of 100. Residents live in an environment significantly more secure than the typical American community.

A Leader in Kansas Rural Safety

The county's total crime rate of 696.1 sits well below the Kansas state average of 1,282.2. Its safety score of 98.9 also exceeds the state average score of 98.0. Haskell remains one of the more secure regions within the state's agricultural heartland.

Stability in Southwest Kansas

With only one reporting agency, Haskell County shows much lower crime activity than several of its regional neighbors. While the total rate of 696.1 is low, the single-agency data source suggests residents should interpret these specific comparisons with cautious optimism. It maintains a distinct safety advantage over more urbanized Kansas districts.

Property Crimes Edge Out Violent Incidents

Property crime accounts for 374.8 incidents per 100,000 people, while violent crime sits at 321.3. Both figures remain below national benchmarks, though the violent crime rate is closer to the national average of 369.8 than the property rate is to its own. This indicates that most local law enforcement activity focuses on personal disputes rather than theft.

Maintain the Haskell Safety Standard

Even with property crime rates at a fraction of the national 2,015.7 average, basic home security provides essential peace of mind. Simple measures like motion-activated lighting and sturdy deadbolts help preserve this county's quiet atmosphere. Staying vigilant helps Haskell remain one of the safest spots in the state.

Schools in Haskell County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Rural Education Infrastructure

Haskell County operates five public schools, including two elementary, one middle, and two high schools. Two local districts serve a total of 630 students across the region. This compact infrastructure ensures students stay connected within their local communities.

High Investment with Steady Academic Results

The county spends $10,784 per pupil, exceeding the state average of $9,009. While the graduation rate of 82.1% trails the national average of 87%, the county's school score of 57.5 slightly outperforms the Kansas state average. Data regarding local bachelor's degree attainment remains limited for this specific area.

Sublette and Satanta Lead Local Learning

Sublette is the largest district, managing three schools and educating 391 students. The Satanta district follows with 239 students enrolled in two schools. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county.

Personalized Learning in a Fully Rural Setting

Every school in Haskell County is classified as rural, creating a close-knit learning environment with an average school size of 126 students. Sublette Elementary is the largest campus with 202 students, while Sublette Middle offers an intimate setting of just 58 students. Attending school here feels personal and community-focused.

Find Your Home in Haskell County

For families seeking small class sizes and a dedicated rural atmosphere, Haskell County offers a unique lifestyle. Explore local real estate to find a home near these community-centered schools. Quality education and quiet living make this a compelling choice for buyers.

Disaster Risk in Haskell County

via RiskByCounty

Haskell's Risk: Well Below National Average

Haskell County scores 15.01 on the composite risk scale, placing it firmly in the Very Low category and well below the national average. This means residents face significantly lower natural disaster exposure than most Americans, though localized hazards still merit attention.

One of Kansas's Safest Counties

At 15.01, Haskell ranks among the state's lowest-risk counties, scoring less than half the Kansas average of 29.89. Only a handful of Kansas counties demonstrate comparable safety profiles.

Safer Than Most Regional Peers

Haskell's 15.01 composite score outperforms neighbors like Jackson County (21.53) and Jewell County (25.29), though it's less protected than nearby Hodgeman County (5.95). The variation reflects distinct geographic exposure to tornadoes and wildfires across the region.

Tornadoes and Wildfires Lead Haskell's Hazards

Tornado risk stands at 25.99 and wildfire risk at 24.94, making these two hazards the county's primary concerns. While both remain moderate compared to state hotspots, spring severe weather and dry-season vegetation fires warrant preparedness planning.

Ensure Storm and Fire Coverage

Despite low overall risk, homeowners should carry comprehensive coverage for tornado and wildfire damage, which standard policies may limit. Consider reinforced safe rooms for severe weather and defensible space around your property to reduce wildfire vulnerability.

Water Quality in Haskell County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Earns a Failing Grade

Haskell County holds an F grade with 13 health violations recorded over the last five years. The county's violation rate of 537.0 per 100,000 residents significantly exceeds the Kansas state average of 313.4.

Watershed Health Data Currently Unavailable

Federal regulators have not yet assessed Haskell County’s water bodies under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. While the state average for impairment is 0.0%, local conditions remain unverified in the current reporting cycle.

No Active Federal Monitoring Records

The EPA Water Quality Portal currently contains no monitoring records for this county over the past five years. This gap in data means there are no recent physical or chemical readings to report for local streams or aquifers.

Limited Streamgage Coverage in Haskell

There is currently no active USGS streamgage representative of this county's primary waterways. Residents must rely on regional drinking water compliance data to understand the local water landscape.

Prioritize Filtration and Health Awareness

With a high violation rate and limited environmental monitoring, residents should stay informed about specific contaminants in their local water reports. Consider using certified home filtration systems to address health risks identified by the EPA.

Weather & Climate in Haskell County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Arid Plains Climate

Haskell County maintains an average annual temperature of 56.9°F, which is nearly four degrees warmer than the national median. This semi-arid region receives only 18.3 inches of precipitation annually, far below the national average for temperate zones.

Warmer Than the Kansas Average

With an annual average of 56.9°F, Haskell County is significantly warmer than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. It also ranks as one of the driest counties in the state, receiving about 12 inches less rain than the average Kansas community.

Hotter and Drier Than Eastern Neighbors

Haskell shares the dry profile of western Kansas, but its 72 extreme heat days make it more intense than many central counties. It is slightly warmer and drier than Kearny County, which averages 55.7°F and 18.8 inches of rain.

Intense Summer Heat and Moderate Winters

Summers are demanding with 72 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 79.5°F. Winters are relatively mild for the plains, averaging 36.1°F with a manageable 15.0 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for Dry Heat and Sun

Residents should invest in high-efficiency cooling systems to handle the frequent 90-degree days. Water conservation and xeriscaping are practical choices given the low annual precipitation of just 18.3 inches.

Soil Quality in Haskell County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Fine Sandy Loams

Haskell County's soil has a pH of 7.22, which is higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.8. These Entisols feature a fine sandy loam texture, indicating relatively young soil development in this region.

Sandy Texture for Easy Working

The mix contains 48.0% sand, 35.4% silt, and 16.6% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability and drainage, though it requires more frequent watering for crop success than heavier soils.

Managing Arid Soil Fertility

Organic matter levels sit at 1.40%, which is lower than the Kansas average of 2.22%. Available water capacity also trails the state benchmark at 0.157 in/in, reflecting the dry climate of western Kansas.

Fast-Draining Hydrologic Group A

Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group A, this ground moves water quickly. This setup minimizes runoff risks during heavy storms but makes the land more prone to drying out during heat waves.

Growing in Zone 6b

Haskell falls in USDA hardiness zone 6b, making it ideal for drought-tolerant grains like sorghum. Start your own garden with heat-resistant perennials to match these sandy and alkaline conditions.

Lawn Care in Haskell County

via LawnByCounty

Haskell County's Uphill Lawn Battle

Haskell County scores a 45.1 for lawn difficulty, making it tougher to maintain grass here than the national median of 50.0. In this Zone 6b region, you face a more challenging environment than the Kansas state average of 59.1.

Dry Heat and High Demands

You manage just 18.3 inches of annual precipitation, far below the ideal 30-50 inches lawns prefer. With 72 extreme heat days and 4296 growing degree days, your grass requires heavy irrigation to survive the intense summer sun.

Sandy Loam Basics

Your soil is a well-drained fine sandy loam with a pH of 7.22, sitting just above the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. While the 48.0% sand content prevents pooling, it means you must fertilize carefully to prevent nutrients from washing away.

Managing the Dry Spells

The county endured 10 weeks in drought over the past year, though current conditions show no immediate dry areas. To stay ahead of the next cycle, keep mower blades at three inches or higher to shade the soil and preserve moisture.

Timing Your 6b Lawn

Drought-tolerant varieties like buffalograss or tall fescue are your best bets for this climate. Aim to seed between the last spring frost on April 23 and the first fall frost around October 21.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Haskell County's county score?
Haskell County, Kansas has a composite county score of 50.3 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 Haskell County rank among counties in Kansas?
Haskell County ranks #55 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 Haskell County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Haskell County is $2,226, with an effective tax rate of 1.44%. This earns Haskell County a tax score of 15.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Haskell County?
The median household income in Haskell County, Kansas is $69,138 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Haskell County earns an income score of 64.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Haskell County, Kansas a good place to live?
Haskell County scores 50.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #55 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Haskell 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 Haskell County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.