countyscore
42
County Score
Income & Jobs 96.8Health 93.6Lawn Care 71.8

County Report Card

About Johnson County, Kansas

Wealthy but Under-Scored Nationally

Despite its affluence, Johnson County’s composite score of 42.0 falls below the national median of 50.0. High costs and environmental risks weigh down its overall ranking.

Below the Kansas Average

Johnson County scores 42.0, trailing the Kansas state average of 49.5. While it leads the state in wealth, it faces livability trade-offs that rural counties do not.

Elite Income and Public Health

The county features a near-perfect income score of 96.8 with a median household income of $107,261. Health scores are equally impressive at 93.6, reflecting top-tier medical access.

Extreme Costs and High Risk

Affordability is very low with a cost score of 6.8 and median home values of $366,000. Environmental risk is also a major factor, with a score of only 5.2.

The Choice for Affluent Urbanites

Johnson County is best for high-earning families who want the best health care and schools. It suits those who accept high costs and safety concerns as a trade-off for luxury and career opportunity.

Score breakdown

Tax27.8Cost6.8Safety18.9Health93.6Schools65.3Income96.8Risk5.2Water71.3Weather55.3
🏛27.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤93.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡5.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71.8
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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Jackson County
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Douglas County
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Deep Dives

Johnson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Johnson County

via TaxByCounty

Johnson County taxes low despite wealthy homes

Johnson County's effective tax rate of 1.153% ranks in the bottom 5% of all U.S. counties—an exceptional advantage for property owners. With a median home value of $366,000—30% above the national median—the median property tax of $4,221 remains below the national median of $2,690 in percentage terms, delivering substantial savings on high-value properties.

Johnson ranks second-best in Kansas rates

At 1.153%, Johnson County's effective tax rate trails only Jackson County's 1.190% statewide and beats the Kansas average of 1.549% by 26%. This exceptional rate makes Johnson one of Kansas's most tax-friendly counties despite its status as the state's wealthiest.

Johnson vastly outpaces neighboring counties

Johnson's 1.153% rate is the state's second-lowest and dramatically outperforms all surveyed regional counties, including Jackson (1.190%) and Jefferson (1.276%). A Johnson homeowner with a $200,000 home saves roughly $1,200 annually compared to a Jewell resident with similar property value.

Johnson homeowners enjoy massive tax savings

A median-value home in Johnson County valued at $366,000 carries an estimated annual property tax of just $4,221—roughly half what comparable national properties pay. For wealthy homeowners, Johnson's combination of low rates and premium values creates extraordinary tax efficiency.

Even low-rate Johnson can benefit from appeals

Johnson's exceptional tax advantage doesn't eliminate assessment errors—even wealthy counties see valuation mistakes. If your home's assessed value diverges significantly from recent comparable sales in your neighborhood, request a reassessment; high-value properties can see five-figure tax savings from successful challenges.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Johnson County

via CostByCounty

Johnson County: Kansas's premium housing market

Johnson County's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, reflecting a high-income, high-cost market where median household income reaches $107,261—44% above the national average. Renters pay $1,385 monthly and homeowners $1,779, but these costs are absorbed by substantially larger incomes than most Americans earn.

Kansas's wealthiest, priciest county

Johnson County dominates Kansas economically and ranks highest for both household income ($107,261) and housing costs, with a 15.5% rent-to-income ratio above the state average. This is Kansas's premium market—attracting affluent professionals and established families willing to pay for suburban amenities near Kansas City.

Dramatically different from rural Kansas

Johnson County's $1,385 rent and $366,000 median home value dwarf neighbors like Haskell ($776 rent, $154,800 homes) and Jewell ($591 rent, $62,100 homes). This reflects Johnson's suburban proximity to Kansas City and concentration of corporate headquarters, medical centers, and professional services.

High earners absorb high housing costs

Renters dedicate 15.5% of their substantial $107,261 income to housing, while homeowners commit 19.9% to monthly ownership costs of $1,779. This ratio appears elevated, but the underlying income is so high that residents retain considerable disposable income despite premium housing costs.

Johnson County for high earners only

If you're relocating with a six-figure income and prioritize suburban amenities, top schools, and proximity to Kansas City job markets, Johnson County justifies its $366,000 median home values and $1,385 rents. Otherwise, compare rural and small-town alternatives across Kansas for dramatically lower costs and comparable quality of life.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Johnson County

via IncomeByCounty

Johnson County Dominates National Rankings

Johnson County's median household income of $107,261 crushes the national median of $74,755 by 43.5%, placing it in the top 5% of U.S. counties by household income. This extraordinary wealth concentration reflects Johnson's position as the Kansas City metro's economic engine—home to corporate headquarters, professional services, and high-wage employment. Few counties nationally match Johnson's income dominance.

Unmatched Kansas Economic Power

At $107,261, Johnson County exceeds Kansas's state average of $64,428 by 66.5%, dwarfing all other counties in the comparison group. Per capita income of $58,292 is nearly double the state average, reflecting high-earning professionals and executives concentrated in the Kansas City metro. Johnson is the state's undisputed economic leader.

Wealth Gap Separates Johnson

Johnson County's $107,261 median income exceeds every peer by $30,000–55,000: Jefferson ($77,393), Jackson ($72,703), Kearny ($74,135), Haskell ($69,138), Hodgeman ($63,125), Kingman ($59,819), and Jewell ($52,344). This commanding advantage reflects Johnson's suburban metro status, professional workforce, and corporate base. Johnson operates in a different economic sphere than rural Kansas peers.

Housing Costs Still Competitive

Johnson's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio, while higher than rural neighbors, remains well below the 30% burden threshold and reflects strong affordability despite premium metro pricing. A median home value of $366,000 represents 3.4 years of median household income—typical for affluent suburban markets nationwide. High income enables comfortable homeownership even at elevated price points.

Sophisticated Wealth Strategies Available

Johnson County households can maximize all retirement vehicles—401(k)s, IRAs, HSAs, backdoor conversions—while still maintaining taxable investment and real estate portfolios. Multi-million-dollar net worth is achievable through diversified strategies: equity diversification, real estate leverage, and tax-optimized withdrawals. Johnson's income creates opportunities for comprehensive wealth planning most counties cannot access.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Johnson County

via CrimeByCounty

Johnson County Beats National Crime Averages

Johnson County reports a total crime rate of 2,129.0 per 100,000, which remains below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.6, providing a secure environment despite its higher population density. Residents enjoy more safety than many other large suburban areas across the country.

Urban Challenges in a Safe State

The county's total crime rate of 2,129.0 is higher than the Kansas state average of 1,282.2. Consequently, its safety score of 96.6 falls slightly below the state average of 98.0. This reflects the complexities of being the most populous county in the state.

A High-Activity Region with Extensive Policing

With 22 reporting agencies, Johnson County has some of the most thorough crime data in Kansas. This transparency reveals higher activity than rural neighbors, but much lower rates than neighboring urban cores. The extensive police presence across multiple cities provides a robust safety net.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

Property crime accounts for 1,897.0 incidents per 100,000, while violent crime remains low at 232.0. The violent crime rate is significantly better than the national average of 369.8. This suggests that while theft is a concern in busy shopping and residential areas, physical safety remains high.

Prioritize Property Security in Johnson

Given that property crime is the primary driver of local stats, residents should focus on securing homes and vehicles. Using smart cameras and avoiding leaving valuables in cars can significantly reduce your risk. These habits help maintain the county's reputation as a safe place to live and work.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Johnson County

via HealthByCounty

Johnson sets national health standard

Johnson County's 80.6-year life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by over four years, placing it among America's healthiest communities. Just 10.1% report poor or fair health—one of the nation's lowest rates—and only 5.9% lack insurance, demonstrating exceptional health security. With 119 primary care and 317 mental health providers per 100K, Johnson commands unmatched healthcare infrastructure.

Kansas's gold standard for health

Johnson County dominates Kansas health rankings with 80.6-year life expectancy—5.2 years above the state average of 75.4 years. Its 10.1% poor/fair health rate ranks best in the state, and 5.9% uninsured is less than half the state average of 11.5%, reflecting wealth and access concentration. Johnson's 317 mental health providers per 100K dwarfs all other counties, revealing the state's most robust behavioral health infrastructure.

Regional health powerhouse

Johnson County's 80.6-year life expectancy surpasses every nearby county, including Jewell (80.1 years) and Haskell (78.9 years). Its 10.1% poor/fair health rate and 5.9% uninsured rate represent the state's best performance, with 119 primary care and 317 mental health providers per 100K commanding unmatched provider density. Johnson's health advantage reflects concentrated resources and wealth.

Healthcare access without peer

Johnson County's 5.9% uninsured rate—less than half the state average—ensures nearly all residents can afford preventive and acute care. The county's 119 primary care providers per 100K offer reliable front-line access, while 317 mental health providers per 100K represent an extraordinary investment in behavioral health. This combination creates a healthcare system designed to catch and treat illness early.

Optimize coverage for your needs

Even in Johnson County's robust health system, reviewing your coverage annually is wise to ensure it matches your changing needs. Visit healthcare.gov to compare plans and confirm you're getting the best value and benefits. Proactive coverage decisions keep you prepared for whatever health challenges arise.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Johnson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Urban and Suburban Powerhouse

Johnson County features a sprawling educational system with 165 public schools serving 94,432 students. The infrastructure includes 111 elementary, 31 middle, and 22 high schools across seven districts. It is the most robust school network in the state, offering immense variety and specialized services.

High Graduation Rates with Efficient Operations

Johnson County achieves an elite 93.2% graduation rate, far surpassing the national average of 87%. Remarkably, the county spends just $7,542 per pupil, which is significantly lower than the state average of $9,009. Despite the lean spending, the county maintains a school score of 56.4, close to the state benchmark.

Olathe and Shawnee Mission Lead the Region

Olathe is the largest district with 51 schools and 29,033 students, followed by Shawnee Mission with 26,422 students. Blue Valley also serves a massive population of 22,349 students across 36 schools. No charter schools exist in this county, as the large traditional districts offer extensive program diversity.

Vibrant Suburban and City School Life

The county is primarily suburban and urban, with 90 schools in suburbs and 48 in city locales. Average school size is large at 572 students, with Olathe North Sr High reaching a massive 2,230 students. Attending school here means access to diverse extracurriculars and large-scale campus resources.

Move to Kansas' Premier School Destination

Families from across the nation choose Johnson County for its high-performing schools and diverse district options. With graduation rates near the top of the state, it remains a premier location for home buyers. Search for a home today in Olathe, Shawnee Mission, or Blue Valley.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Johnson County

via RiskByCounty

Johnson County: Highest Risk in Kansas

Johnson County's composite risk score of 94.85 places it in the Relatively High category and far above the national average. This metropolitan county faces exceptional exposure to floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes, making disaster preparedness essential.

Kansas's Most Disaster-Prone County

Johnson's 94.85 score towers above the Kansas average of 29.89, making it by far the state's highest-risk county in this sample. The gap reflects Johnson's dense urban development in flood-prone terrain and its position in Kansas's tornado alley.

Dramatically Riskier Than All Neighbors

Johnson (94.85) dwarfs neighboring Jefferson (19.66) and all other Kansas sample counties, with risk scores 3-16 times higher. This exceptional hazard exposure stems from Johnson's location in greater Kansas City's flood zone and tornado corridor.

Floods and Tornadoes: Johnson's Twin Threats

Flood risk reaches 94.88 and tornado risk 98.92—both among the nation's highest for any county. Earthquake risk at 75.70 and wildfire at 61.23 add additional layers of hazard exposure unusual for Kansas.

Comprehensive Coverage Is Non-Negotiable

Johnson County residents must carry flood insurance separately from homeowner policies—standard coverage excludes it entirely. Add a windstorm endorsement for tornadoes, verify earthquake coverage is available, and develop a family disaster plan with multiple evacuation routes.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Johnson County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperate Conditions with High Rainfall

Johnson County averages 55.1°F annually, sitting just above the national median temperature. Its 38.7 inches of annual precipitation is significantly higher than the average for the American West.

Kansas' Wettest Urban Hub

With 38.7 inches of rain, Johnson County is far wetter than the Kansas state average of 30.3 inches. Its annual temperature of 55.1°F is almost perfectly aligned with the state average of 54.8°F.

Consistent with the Kansas City Metro

Johnson shares a similar climate with neighboring Jefferson, but it is the wettest in this group at 38.7 inches. It also has the fewest extreme heat days in this set, averaging only 37 days above 90°F.

Damp Winters and Comfortable Summers

Summers are the most temperate in the region, with a July average of 78.6°F. Winters are chilly but not extreme, averaging 32.5°F with about 13.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Manage Moisture and Moderate Heat

High annual rainfall of 38.7 inches makes basement waterproofing and gutter maintenance essential for homeowners. While heat is moderate, the 37 days above 90°F still require functional cooling systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Johnson County

via SoilByCounty

Acidity Favors Local Landscapes

The average pH in Johnson County is 6.35, which is slightly lower than the national median of 6.5. This slight acidity is generally favorable for suburban gardening and many regional landscape plants.

High Silt, Low Sand Mix

This soil is very heavy in silt at 60.0%, with 25.6% clay and only 13.5% sand. Such high silt levels produce a fine-textured soil that is excellent at holding onto essential plant nutrients.

Exceptional Organic Content

Fertility is high with organic matter at 2.87%, well above the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.195 in/in also beats the Kansas benchmark, indicating resilient and productive soil.

Heavy Soil Considerations

While local drainage class data is limited, the high silt-to-sand ratio typically results in slower permeability. Gardeners may need to add organic amendments to improve aeration in these dense, nutrient-rich soils.

Thriving in Zone 6b

Hardiness zone 6b allows for a wide variety of ornamental plants and food crops to flourish here. Your Johnson County yard is naturally fertile, so get out and start planting this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Johnson County

via LawnByCounty

Johnson County's Lush Advantage

Johnson County is a premier spot for Kansas lawn care, scoring a 71.8 on the difficulty scale. This Zone 6b area easily outpaces the national average of 50.0 and is much more hospitable than the state average of 59.1.

Ideal Rainfall and Long Seasons

With 38.7 inches of annual precipitation, you enjoy more rain than most of Kansas. Combined with only 37 extreme heat days, your lawn faces fewer environmental stresses than almost any other part of the state.

Perfect pH for Green Turf

The soil pH of 6.35 is perfect for growing healthy grass without the need for heavy chemical adjustments. The 25.6% clay content ensures moisture stays in the soil, making your yard more resilient during dry spells.

Managing Moderate Dry Spells

While 63.7% of the county is currently abnormally dry, the region only saw 19 weeks of drought in the past year. Installing a smart irrigation controller can help you manage water usage efficiently during these dry periods.

A Wide Growing Window

Your long growing season begins after the April 10 frost and lasts until late October. Kentucky bluegrass and turf-type tall fescue are excellent choices for these nearly ideal Kansas conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Johnson County's county score?
Johnson County, Kansas has a composite county score of 42 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 Johnson County rank among counties in Kansas?
Johnson County ranks #80 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 Johnson County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Johnson County is $4,221, with an effective tax rate of 1.15%. This earns Johnson County a tax score of 27.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Johnson County?
The median household income in Johnson County, Kansas is $107,261 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Johnson County earns an income score of 96.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Johnson County, Kansas a good place to live?
Johnson County scores 42/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #80 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Johnson 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 Johnson 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.