countyscore
55.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Schools 81.3Disaster Risk 78.5

County Report Card

About Jackson County, Kansas

High Ranking National Livability

Jackson County earns a composite score of 55.1, placing it solidly above the national median of 50.0. It ranks in the upper tier of counties for quality of life metrics.

Exceeding the Kansas Average

At 55.1, the county outperforms the Kansas state average of 49.5. It offers a superior balance of schools and services compared to many state peers.

Top-Tier Schools and Infrastructure

Education is a major strength with a school score of 81.3. The county also benefits from excellent water security at 86.0 and a strong income score of 73.2.

Housing Costs and Tax Pressure

Cost of living is a moderate challenge with a score of 38.9 and median home values near $193,600. The tax score of 26.0 also indicates a notable local tax burden.

The Ideal Choice for Families

With high marks for schools and income, Jackson County is tailor-made for growing families. It suits those willing to pay a bit more for quality education and reliable infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax26Cost38.9Safety57.4Health59.9Schools81.3Income73.2Risk78.5Water86Weather46.4
🏛26
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠38.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡57.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤59.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓81.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡78.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱76.6
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

Brown County
Kansas
50.4
Jefferson County
Kansas
52
Atchison County
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48.6
Shawnee County
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30.7
Nemaha County
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Pottawatomie County
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Doniphan County
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Douglas County
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Deep Dives

Jackson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jackson County

via TaxByCounty

Jackson offers Kansas's lowest tax rate overall

Jackson County's effective tax rate of 1.190% ranks in the bottom 10% of all U.S. counties—a genuinely rare advantage for property owners. The median property tax of $2,304 sits 14% below the national median of $2,690, despite homes valued near the national average at $193,600.

Jackson ranks first in Kansas for low rates

At 1.190%, Jackson holds the lowest effective tax rate in Kansas, substantially undercutting the state average of 1.549%. This 23% advantage over the state norm makes Jackson one of the most tax-efficient counties in the region.

Jackson vastly outperforms regional peers

Jackson's 1.190% rate is dramatically lower than Jefferson County (1.276%), Jewell County (1.968%), and Haskell County (1.438%), establishing it as the region's clear winner for property tax affordability. A Jackson homeowner saves roughly $700 annually compared to a Jewell County resident with an equivalent home value.

Jackson homeowners enjoy lowest tax bills

A median-value home in Jackson County valued at $193,600 carries an estimated annual property tax of just $2,304. This modest bill for a fairly valuable property reflects Jackson's exceptional tax advantage.

Even low-tax Jackson residents can appeal

Don't assume your assessment is fair just because Jackson's rates are low—assessors in all counties make mistakes. If your home's assessed value seems out of line with comparable properties, request a review at no cost; it's an easy way to improve an already excellent tax situation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jackson County

via CostByCounty

Jackson offers solid national affordability

Jackson County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national average, offering reasonable housing affordability for renters earning $72,703 median household income. At $856 monthly, rents remain accessible compared to national trends, though homeownership costs are notably higher.

Slightly above Kansas average for renters

Jackson County ranks near the middle of Kansas counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.1% compared to the state average of 14.7%. This positions it as a balanced market—not the most affordable, but reasonable for families seeking Kansas housing.

Mid-range costs in the region

Jackson's $856 monthly rent sits between Jefferson County's $844 and Kearny County's $1,137, reflecting a moderate rental market. Home values at $193,600 are higher than western county neighbors but lower than Jefferson County's $200,800, indicating Jackson attracts mid-market homebuyers.

Homeownership premium in Jackson

Renters spend 14.1% of their income on housing, but homeowners commit 17.2% to monthly ownership costs of $1,042, suggesting a steeper jump to homeownership here. This disparity reflects median home values of $193,600, making Jackson attractive for renters but requiring substantial income commitment for buyers.

A reasonable choice for Kansas relocators

Jackson County suits renters and entry-level homebuyers seeking moderate affordability in central Kansas with a stable income base of $72,703. Consider Jefferson County to the south for slightly higher incomes and home values, or Haskell to the west for lower overall costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson Approaches National Average

Jackson County's median household income of $72,703 sits just 2.7% below the national median of $74,755, placing it firmly in the middle-income range nationally. This near-parity with the U.S. average is exceptional for a rural Kansas county, reflecting stable employment and economic resilience. Jackson ranks well above typical Great Plains rural counties in household earning power.

Top-Tier Kansas County

At $72,703, Jackson County exceeds Kansas's state average of $64,428 by 12.8%, ranking in the top quarter of Kansas counties by income. This strong regional performance reflects economic diversification and competitive wages across sectors. Jackson stands among Kansas's most prosperous rural counties.

Strong Regional Performance

Jackson County's $72,703 median income exceeds Haskell County ($69,138), Hodgeman County ($63,125), Kingman County ($59,819), and Jewell County ($52,344), trailing only Jefferson County ($77,393). This leadership position suggests Jackson has captured regional job growth and retained skilled workers. Jackson is a relative economic anchor in its peer group.

Excellent Housing Affordability

Jackson's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio reflects strong housing affordability, well below the 30% burden threshold and indicating housing costs consume a manageable share of income. A median home value of $193,600 represents 2.7 years of median household income, making homeownership accessible to most working families. This balance enables long-term wealth building through home equity.

Invest in Your Future Aggressively

Jackson County households earning near national averages have real capacity to maximize retirement contributions and diversify into taxable investment accounts. Starting a systematic investment plan now—even $100–200 monthly in index funds—compounds significantly over decades. Jackson's income and affordability create ideal conditions for long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jackson County Maintains High National Safety

Jackson County features a total crime rate of 979.4 per 100,000, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This translates to a safety score of 98.5, indicating a very secure environment for residents. The county offers a peaceful alternative to more metropolitan areas across the country.

Performing Better Than the State Average

The county's safety score of 98.5 outperforms the Kansas state average of 98.0. With a total crime rate of 979.4, Jackson County is roughly 24% safer than the state average of 1,282.2. Local law enforcement across four agencies successfully keeps crime levels suppressed.

Consistent Safety Across Four Agencies

With four agencies reporting data, Jackson County provides a more comprehensive picture of safety than some of its single-agency neighbors. Its rate of 979.4 remains lower than many counties of similar size and population density. This multi-agency coordination helps maintain a stable and predictable environment.

Property Crimes Outnumber Violent Incidents

Property crime occurs at a rate of 806.1 per 100,000, while violent crime is much lower at 173.3. Both categories are well under national averages, with violent crime being less than half the national rate. Residents are far more likely to deal with minor theft than any form of physical confrontation.

Simple Steps for Home Security

Most local crime involves property, so securing your home and vehicles is the most effective deterrent. Installing smart doorbells or basic alarm systems can further reduce the risk of opportunistic theft. These small investments help keep Jackson County's safety score among the best in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jackson County

via HealthByCounty

Jackson matches national standards

Jackson County's 75.4-year life expectancy aligns with the U.S. average of 76.4 years, placing it among healthier American communities. With 14.8% reporting poor or fair health and solid provider access across both primary care (68 per 100K) and mental health (60 per 100K), the county maintains balanced health infrastructure. Still, a one-in-ten uninsured rate leaves room for improvement.

Right at Kansas's midline

Jackson County's 75.4-year life expectancy exactly matches the Kansas state average, placing it squarely in the middle of health outcomes statewide. Its 14.8% poor/fair health rate aligns with state norms, and 10.3% uninsured—just below the 11.5% state average—suggests reasonable healthcare access. Jackson represents a stable, average Kansas health profile.

Solid performer in its region

Jackson County's 75.4-year life expectancy edges out Hodgeman County (72.1 years) by over three years, though it trails Haskell County (78.9 years) by 3.5 years. Its 14.8% poor/fair health rate sits between Hodgeman's 14.7% and Haskell's 19.6%, marking it as a regional middle ground. With 68 primary care and 60 mental health providers per 100K, Jackson offers comparable access to Jackson County neighbors.

Coverage near parity, access steady

Jackson's 10.3% uninsured rate ranks slightly better than the state average of 11.5%, meaning most residents have insurance coverage. The county provides 68 primary care providers and 60 mental health providers per 100K, offering reasonable access to both acute and behavioral health services. These balanced resources support a stable, if unremarkable, health system.

Keep coverage strong and steady

Jackson County's near-average coverage is a foundation to build on, not a finish line. Visit healthcare.gov to review your current plan and explore options for better coverage, lower costs, or added benefits. Staying continuously insured ensures you catch health problems early and avoid costly gaps in care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jackson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Network of Jackson Schools

Jackson County features a diverse educational landscape with nine public schools spread across three districts. The system includes three elementary, two middle, and four high schools serving 2,407 students. This variety provides families with multiple options for their children's education.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and School Scores

Jackson County boasts a graduation rate of 92.6%, significantly higher than the 87% national average. The county's school score of 62.4 is also well above the Kansas state average of 57.2. These results are supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $10,463, indicating a strong local investment in student success.

Holton and Royal Valley Drive Enrollment

The Holton district is the county's largest, serving 1,149 students across four schools. Royal Valley follows closely with 854 students in three schools, while North Jackson manages two schools. No charter schools operate in the area, keeping the focus on these established public districts.

A Blend of Town and Country Life

The county offers a mix of four schools in town settings and five in rural areas. Holton Elementary is the largest school with 540 students, providing a more traditional town-school feel. In contrast, several smaller rural schools offer the classic Kansas educational experience with an overall average size of 267 students.

Exceptional Education Awaits in Jackson County

With top-tier graduation rates and high school scores, Jackson County is a premier destination for families. Explore residential listings near the highly-rated Holton or Royal Valley districts. Secure a home in a community that values academic excellence and diverse school settings.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jackson County

via RiskByCounty

Jackson County's Risk: Still Below Average

Jackson County scores 21.53 on the composite risk scale, classifying it as Very Low despite exceeding some neighbors. This remains comfortably below the national average, though specific hazards deserve targeted attention.

Mid-Range Safety Among Kansas Counties

Jackson's 21.53 composite score places it below the Kansas average of 29.89, indicating better-than-average state-level protection. The county sits in the safer half of Kansas's disaster risk distribution.

More Exposed Than Western Neighbors

Jackson (21.53) carries higher risk than Haskell (15.01) but lower than Kingman (35.56) and Jefferson (19.66). Its wildfire exposure at 89.19 stands out as the county's distinguishing risk factor relative to surrounding counties.

Wildfire Risk Dominates Jackson County

Wildfire risk soars to 89.19, making it the county's overwhelming hazard concern and one of Kansas's highest wildfire exposures. Tornadoes (48.76) and floods (27.00) represent secondary but meaningful threats.

Wildfire Insurance Is Non-Negotiable

Every Jackson County homeowner must confirm wildfire coverage—this is your county's critical exposure. Establish 100+ feet of cleared defensible space if possible, ensure your roof is fire-resistant, and keep gutters vegetation-free year-round.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler and Wetter Climate Profile

Jackson County averages 52.5°F annually, making it slightly cooler than the national median. It is notably wetter than the western plains, receiving 37.4 inches of precipitation each year.

One of the Cooler Kansas Counties

Jackson County sits below the state average annual temperature of 54.8°F. However, it receives 37.4 inches of rain, which is over 7 inches more than the Kansas state average.

Cooler and Wetter Than Neighbors

At 52.5°F, Jackson is cooler than nearby Jefferson County's 54.4°F average. Both counties enjoy high precipitation compared to central Kansas, supporting lush vegetation and diverse agriculture.

Mild Summers and Chilly Winters

Summer heat is less oppressive here, with only 38 days over 90°F and a July average of 76.8°F. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging 26.2°F, though specific snowfall data is currently unavailable.

Focus on Winter Insulation

With winter averages dipping to 29.2°F, home insulation and heating efficiency should be a top priority. Outdoor planning should account for the heavy 37.4 inches of annual rainfall, requiring good drainage systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced and Fertile Soils

Jackson County features a near-perfect pH of 6.44, very close to the national median of 6.5. This balanced acidity makes it a versatile foundation for a wide range of agriculture compared to the more alkaline state average.

Dense Mix of Silt and Clay

The composition is 51.1% silt and 30.7% clay, with a small 17.7% sand fraction. This clay-silt dominance provides exceptional nutrient retention, though it may require careful timing for spring tilling to avoid compaction.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

Fertility is a standout here, with organic matter at 3.10%, significantly higher than the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.196 in/in also beats the state average, signaling high growing potential.

Slow Natural Water Movement

While specific drainage records are limited, the heavy clay and silt concentrations suggest slower natural water movement. You should monitor for standing water after heavy rain events before building or planting sensitive crops.

Abundant Growth in Zone 6a

In hardiness zone 6a, this rich soil is perfect for robust vegetable gardens and orchard fruits. With such high organic matter, your backyard garden has a major head start on success.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

Superior Growing Conditions in Jackson

Jackson County boasts a high lawn difficulty score of 76.6, indicating it is much easier to grow grass here than the national or state averages. This Zone 6a county offers a forgiving climate for most standard turfgrasses.

Plentiful Rain and Mild Heat

You receive 37.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is well within the ideal 30-50 inch range. With only 38 extreme heat days per year—far fewer than the state average of 58—your lawn faces less summer burnout.

Ideal Soil Acidity

Your soil pH of 6.44 is nearly perfect for nutrient uptake in a healthy lawn. The 30.7% clay content helps retain moisture, though you should aerate annually to prevent the heavy clay from compacting.

Watching for Abnormally Dry Spots

Despite 18 weeks of drought over the last year, current data shows 58.4% of the county is abnormally dry. Use organic mulch or compost top-dressing to improve water retention while the region recovers from dry cycles.

Perfect for Cool-Season Grass

Kentucky bluegrass and fescue blends thrive in this environment. Get your seed in the ground around April 24, giving it plenty of time to establish before the first frost on October 14.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, Kansas has a composite county score of 55.1 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 Jackson County rank among counties in Kansas?
Jackson County ranks #34 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 Jackson County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $2,304, with an effective tax rate of 1.19%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 26/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, Kansas is $72,703 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 73.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, Kansas a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 55.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #34 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Jackson 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 Jackson 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.