countyscore
57.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 94.1Safety 93.6Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Hodgeman County, Kansas

Significantly Above National Standards

Hodgeman County boasts a composite score of 57.3, well ahead of the national median of 50.0. This puts it in a high percentile for overall livability across the United States.

A Top Performer in Kansas

The county's 57.3 score comfortably beats the Kansas state average of 49.5. It represents one of the more balanced and high-scoring rural options in the state.

Exceptional Safety and Environmental Stability

Safety is a hallmark here with a score of 93.6, while environmental risk is minimal at a score of 94.1. Unlike many neighbors, it also maintains a strong water score of 86.0.

High Taxes and Moderate Incomes

The tax score is quite low at 5.7 due to an effective tax rate of 1.767%. Additionally, the income score of 48.6 reflects a more modest economic profile compared to urban centers.

A Sanctuary for Peace and Security

Hodgeman County is ideal for those who prioritize safety and resource reliability above all else. It is a perfect match for retirees or families looking for a low-risk, secure lifestyle.

204060801005.758.593.64759.848.694.18641.4Tax5.7Cost58.5Safety93.6Health47Schools59.8Income48.6Risk94.1Water86Weather41.457.3/100
This county
National avg
4 above average2 below average

Hodgeman County DNA

Foverall

How Hodgeman County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hodgeman County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (94.1/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (5.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
5.7-46.3
Cost
58.5+10.5
Safety
93.6+38.599999999999994
Health
47
Schools
59.8
Income
48.6
Risk
94.1+47.099999999999994
Water
86+28
Weather
41.4-14.600000000000001
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$92,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$900/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$92,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$36,000/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $63,125/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

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Pawnee County
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Edwards County
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Deep Dives

Hodgeman County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hodgeman County

via TaxByCounty

Hodgeman taxes high despite lower home values

Hodgeman County's effective tax rate of 1.767% ranks in the upper third of U.S. counties, significantly above the national median of 1.83%. With a median home value of just $92,700, the county's median property tax of $1,638 remains well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the interaction of a high rate with lower-valued properties.

Hodgeman among Kansas's highest-rate counties

At 1.767%, Hodgeman's effective tax rate ranks in the top 15% statewide—significantly above Kansas's 1.549% average. The county collects more per dollar of home value than most Kansas peers, making it one of the state's steeper property tax environments.

Hodgeman leads region in tax rate burden

Hodgeman's 1.767% rate exceeds neighboring Haskell (1.438%), Kearny (1.224%), and Kingman (1.784%) by varying margins, establishing it as a high-rate zone in southwest Kansas. Only Kingman's rate approaches Hodgeman's, making these two the region's heaviest tax burdens.

Hodgeman homeowners pay modest absolute taxes

A median-value home in Hodgeman County valued at $92,700 generates an estimated annual property tax of $1,638. Mortgage-holding homeowners typically pay $1,906 annually when county levies are factored in.

Appeal assessments to reduce your burden

Hodgeman's high rate means assessment errors carry outsized impact on your tax bill. Request a reassessment if your home's assessed value seems inflated relative to recent sales or condition; county assessors regularly make mistakes that cost homeowners money.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hodgeman County

via CostByCounty

Hodgeman renters stretch to afford housing

At 17.1%, Hodgeman County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national standard and Kansas's state average of 14.7%, signaling affordability pressure. Renters earning a median household income of $63,125 annually face $900 monthly rent payments, consuming a larger share of income than most Americans experience.

Among Kansas's less affordable counties

Hodgeman County ranks below average within Kansas for rental affordability, with its 17.1% rent-to-income ratio well above the state average of 14.7%. This suggests renters here face tighter budgets compared to most other Kansas communities, though homeownership remains relatively affordable.

Higher rents than nearby Haskell

Hodgeman's $900 monthly rent is notably higher than Haskell County's $776 and the state average of $787, despite having a lower median household income of $63,125. However, homeowners benefit from lower monthly costs ($663) and significantly lower home values ($92,700) compared to neighboring counties.

The rent crunch in Hodgeman

Renters dedicate 17.1% of their income to housing—well above the typical 15% affordability threshold—while homeowners spend a healthier 12.6% of their income on ownership costs. This split reflects a rental market that strains household budgets, though buying is comparatively accessible.

Renting here requires careful budgeting

Hodgeman County works best for prospective homebuyers seeking affordable property values around $92,700, but renters should budget carefully as rental costs consume more income than in neighboring counties. Compare your job prospects and housing needs with adjacent Haskell and Kearny counties before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hodgeman County

via IncomeByCounty

Below National, Below State Average

Hodgeman County's median household income of $63,125 trails the national median of $74,755 by 15.6%, reflecting rural Kansas's structural income challenges. This shortfall is typical for agricultural counties where seasonal work and commodity volatility affect annual earnings. Hodgeman ranks among lower-income counties nationally, but not unusually so for the Great Plains.

Below-Average Kansas County

At $63,125, Hodgeman County falls below Kansas's state average of $64,428 by just 1.9%, putting it near the state's median tier. This near-average position masks significant wage variations within the county—per capita income of $36,823 suggests wealth concentration or part-time work prevalence. Hodgeman ranks in the middle-to-lower third statewide.

Struggling Relative to Regional Peers

Hodgeman's $63,125 median income lags Haskell County ($69,138) and Jackson County ($72,703) significantly, though it edges Kingman County ($59,819) and Jewell County ($52,344). The $10,000+ gap to stronger neighbors reflects differences in job diversity and wage scales across the region. Hodgeman needs economic development to narrow this gap.

Housing Affordability Pressured

Hodgeman's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio is elevated, approaching the 30% housing-burden threshold and suggesting rental costs consume meaningful household income. A median home value of $92,700 remains achievable, but rising rental costs erode discretionary income for lower-wage households. Affordability stress compounds for renters and service-industry workers.

Prioritize Emergency Savings First

With tighter income margins and rising housing costs, Hodgeman households should build a 3-6 month emergency fund before investing aggressively. Employer-sponsored retirement plans, even modest contributions, provide stability and tax advantages that build wealth over time. Small consistent steps beat waiting for a windfall.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hodgeman County

via CrimeByCounty

Hodgeman County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

With a total crime rate of just 56.5 per 100,000 residents, Hodgeman County is remarkably safe compared to the national average of 2,385.5. The county boasts a near-perfect safety score of 99.9. This data reflects one of the lowest crime environments in the entire United States.

Setting the Bar for Kansas Safety

Hodgeman County's crime rate is roughly 22 times lower than the Kansas state average of 1,282.2. Its safety score of 99.9 comfortably beats the state average of 98.0. It stands as a premier example of rural Kansas security.

Unrivaled Safety in the Region

While neighboring counties often report higher activity, Hodgeman’s single reporting agency recorded almost no crime in 2022. The rate of 56.5 is exceptionally rare even for the quietest parts of the Midwest. This creates a unique pocket of tranquility for local residents.

Zero Violent Crimes Reported

Law enforcement reported zero violent crimes in 2022, a stark contrast to the national average of 369.8. The entirety of the county's small crime rate stems from property incidents at 56.5 per 100,000. In practical terms, crime is an extremely rare occurrence for those living here.

Keeping Your Hodgeman Home Secure

Although crime is nearly non-existent, residents should still practice basic safety habits like locking vehicles and outbuildings. Since property crime is the only recorded activity, securing valuables remains the best way to maintain this high safety standard. Small precautions ensure the county remains a haven for families.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hodgeman County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Education for the Hodgeman Community

Hodgeman County maintains a focused education system with just two public schools serving the entire region. One elementary and one high school provide a complete K-12 path for 289 total students. A single school district manages all public education for the county.

Strong Graduation Rates on Lean Budgets

The county achieves an impressive 90.0% graduation rate, surpassing both the state average and the national benchmark of 87%. This performance comes despite a per-pupil expenditure of $8,286, which is lower than the Kansas average of $9,009. The school score of 56.3 sits just below the state median.

The Unified Hodgeman County School District

The Hodgeman County Schools district manages the entire local enrollment of 289 students. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring all public resources stay within the traditional district system. This unified approach creates a consistent experience for all local families.

Big Opportunity in a Small Rural School

Both schools in the county are situated in rural locales, fostering a tight-knit and familiar atmosphere. Hodgeman County Elementary is the larger of the two with 173 students, while the high school serves 116 students. The average school size of 145 ensures that every teacher knows every student by name.

Settle Down Near High-Performing Schools

Families looking for high graduation rates and a safe, rural environment should consider Hodgeman County. Discover homes that offer easy access to these small, effective schools. Moving here means joining a community that prioritizes its students' success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hodgeman County

via RiskByCounty

Hodgeman: Kansas's Lowest-Risk County

Hodgeman County's composite risk score of 5.95 ranks among the nation's safest places, dropping well below the national average. Residents enjoy exceptional natural disaster protection, though wildfire remains a notable regional concern.

Bottom of Kansas Risk Rankings

Hodgeman's 5.95 score is the lowest in our Kansas sample and significantly trails the state average of 29.89. This exceptional safety profile makes it one of the state's most resilient counties for disaster risk.

Safest County in Its Region

Hodgeman (5.95) outperforms all surrounding counties including Kearny (8.37), Haskell (15.01), and Kingman (35.56). Its combination of lower tornado activity and reduced flood exposure creates a notably safer regional pocket.

Wildfire Dominates Hodgeman's Hazard Profile

Wildfire risk reaches 45.61, by far the county's leading hazard and well above the state pattern. Tornado risk at 25.54 and flood risk at 4.33 remain secondary concerns, leaving vegetation management the priority.

Prioritize Wildfire Insurance and Prevention

Homeowners should confirm wildfire coverage is included in property insurance, as standard policies sometimes exclude or limit it. Create at least 30 feet of defensible space around structures and keep roofs and gutters clear of dead vegetation.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hodgeman County

via WaterByCounty

Clean Drinking Water Compliance Records

Hodgeman County maintains an A grade with zero health violations reported over the last five years. This perfect compliance record performs much better than the state average of 313.4 violations per 100,000 people.

Local Watersheds Await Federal Assessment

This county's water bodies are not yet covered in the federal Section 303(d) assessment for watershed health. Consequently, there are no reported impairment percentages or specific pollutant causes for this reporting cycle.

Gap in Water Quality Monitoring

No monitoring records are currently available in the federal EPA Water Quality Portal for Hodgeman County. The lack of active monitoring sites means there is no recent data on nutrient or chemical levels in the county.

Pawnee River Flow Drops to Zero

The Pawnee River near Burdett currently records 0 cfs, which is significantly lower than its long-term mean of 9 cfs. This represents 0% of the typical flow for this 1,091-square-mile drainage area.

Monitor Water Supplies During Drought

While drinking water compliance is excellent, the total lack of streamflow in the Pawnee River indicates severe dry conditions. Residents should remain mindful of source water levels and potential drought-driven water quality changes.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hodgeman County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistent With Middle America Norms

Hodgeman County’s average annual temperature of 54.6°F sits right near the U.S. median. However, its 23.7 inches of annual precipitation is lower than many other regions in the same latitude.

Matching the Kansas Baseline

The county's average temperature of 54.6°F almost perfectly mirrors the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. While temperature is standard for the state, the local precipitation is about 6.6 inches below the state mean.

Standard West-Central Kansas Conditions

Hodgeman County experiences 72 extreme heat days per year, matching its neighbor Haskell to the southwest. It receives about 5 inches more rain than Haskell, providing a slightly more resilient landscape for local agriculture.

Extreme Heat Paired with Snowy Winters

Summer temperatures peak in July at an average of 79.6°F, supported by over two months of 90-degree days. Winter brings more moisture than the far west, delivering 21.2 inches of annual snowfall.

Plan for High Seasonal Variability

Reliable HVAC systems are essential here to bridge the gap between 31°F Januarys and 80°F Julys. Given the 21.2 inches of snow, residents should maintain sturdy winter gear and snow removal equipment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hodgeman County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Alkaline Silty Soils

The soil is notably alkaline with a pH of 7.46, sitting well above the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited here, the high alkalinity suggests a need for specific plant choices or acid-loving amendments.

Silt-Heavy Foundation

A silt-heavy profile of 55.2% dominates the composition, balanced by 25.1% clay and 18.7% sand. This mixture provides a smooth, workable surface that retains nutrients and moisture better than sandy alternatives.

Solid Water Retention Capacity

Organic matter reaches 2.09%, which nearly matches the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is quite strong, exceeding the Kansas state average of 0.180 in/in.

Steady Hydration for Crops

Specific drainage class data is unavailable for this area, but the high silt content usually implies moderate permeability. This composition generally supports steady hydration for deep-rooted crops and stable building foundations.

Prairie Gardening in 6b

Located in hardiness zone 6b, Hodgeman is suited for hardy vegetables and native prairie grasses. You can cultivate a thriving plot by choosing plants that can handle the regional summer sun and alkaline soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hodgeman County

via LawnByCounty

Average Ease in Hodgeman County

Hodgeman County earns a 52.3 lawn difficulty score, placing it slightly above the national average of 50.0. While easier than some neighbors, it remains more demanding than the Kansas state average of 59.1.

Hot Summers and Moderate Rain

Annual precipitation of 23.7 inches falls short of the 30-inch ideal, requiring supplemental watering during the growing season. You face 72 days of extreme heat annually, which can quickly stress cool-season grasses like bluegrass.

High Alkaline Soil Management

A soil pH of 7.46 is notably high, which may lock out essential nutrients for your turf. With 25.1% clay and limited drainage data, you should monitor for compaction to ensure roots can penetrate the soil effectively.

Resilience Through Short Droughts

The county saw only 4 weeks of drought in the past year, and current maps show 0.0% of the area is abnormally dry. Focus on deep watering twice a week to encourage deep roots that can survive sudden Kansas dry spells.

Plan for the Frost Dates

Tall fescue is a reliable choice for Zone 6b yards that need to handle both heat and cold. Prepare your soil for a spring start after April 25, or target late summer before the October 18 first frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hodgeman County's county score?
Hodgeman County, Kansas has a composite county score of 57.3 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 Hodgeman County rank among counties in Kansas?
Hodgeman County ranks #25 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 Hodgeman County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Hodgeman County is $1,638, with an effective tax rate of 1.77%. This earns Hodgeman County a tax score of 5.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hodgeman County?
The median household income in Hodgeman County, Kansas is $63,125 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hodgeman County earns an income score of 48.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hodgeman County, Kansas a good place to live?
Hodgeman County scores 57.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Hodgeman 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 Hodgeman County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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