countyscore
48.9
County Score
Safety 68.1Schools 65.2Disaster Risk 64.5

County Report Card

About Kingman County, Kansas

Near the National Livability Average

Kingman County earns a 48.9 composite score, sitting just below the national median of 50.0. It offers a fairly typical American rural lifestyle profile.

Consistent with Kansas State Averages

At 48.9, the county is almost exactly in line with the Kansas state average of 49.5. It represents a middle-of-the-road choice for residents in the state.

Safe Communities and Solid Schools

The county scores well in safety at 68.1 and school quality at 65.2. Environmental risk is also relatively low, with a score of 64.5 for local resilience.

High Tax Rates and Low Health

The tax score of 5.4 is quite low, driven by an effective tax rate of 1.784%. Health scores are also a concern at 38.2, alongside moderate water security at 35.2.

A Balanced Option for Rural Families

Kingman County is a good fit for families who want a safe, predictable environment with decent schools. It suits those who prioritize community safety over low property tax rates.

204060801005.459.568.138.265.238.564.535.248.9Tax5.4Cost59.5Safety68.1Health38.2Schools65.2Income38.5Risk64.5Water35.2Weather48.948.9/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Kingman County DNA

Foverall

How Kingman County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Kingman County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (64.5/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (5.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
5.4-46.6
Cost
59.5+11.5
Safety
68.1+13.099999999999994
Health
38.2-11.799999999999997
Schools
65.2+11.200000000000003
Income
38.5-12.5
Risk
64.5+17.5
Water
35.2-22.799999999999997
Weather
48.9
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Think property taxes are too high in Kingman County?

Many homeowners in Kingman 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

$107,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$807/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$107,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $59,819/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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46.7
Barber County
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Pratt County
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46.8
Reno County
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Sumner County
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Grant County
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Deep Dives

Kingman County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kingman County

via TaxByCounty

Kingman taxes high despite modest home values

Kingman County's effective tax rate of 1.784% ranks in the top 20% of all U.S. counties for property tax burden, substantially above the national median of 1.83%. With a median home value of just $107,400, the median property tax of $1,916 remains well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's high rate applied to lower-valued properties.

Kingman ranks among Kansas's highest rates

At 1.784%, Kingman's effective tax rate ranks in the top 10% statewide—15% above the Kansas average of 1.549%. The county delivers one of the state's steepest property tax burdens relative to home values.

Kingman near regional peak alongside Hodgeman

Kingman's 1.784% rate is the second-highest in the surveyed region, trailing only Jewell County's 1.968% and nearly matching Hodgeman's 1.767%. Combined, Kingman and Jewell represent the southwest Kansas high-tax zone, while Jackson and Kearny offer relief at 1.190% and 1.224%.

Kingman homeowners pay steep percentage rates

A median-value home in Kingman County valued at $107,400 generates an estimated annual property tax of $1,916. Mortgage-holding homeowners typically pay $2,037 annually.

Challenge assessments to reduce tax pain

With Kingman's high rate, assessment accuracy is critical to controlling your tax bill—even modest overvaluations cost hundreds annually. Request a reassessment if your home's assessed value doesn't align with recent sales of comparable properties in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kingman County

via CostByCounty

Kingman renters face affordability pressure

Kingman County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national averages, indicating meaningful housing burden for renters earning $59,819 median household income—20% below the national average. Monthly rent of $807 consumes a disproportionate share of household earnings, leaving less for other necessities.

Below-average affordability across Kansas

Kingman County ranks below the Kansas state average for affordability, with a 16.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeding the state benchmark of 14.7%. This positions it among the state's less affordable rental markets, though not as strained as Kearny County's 18.4%.

Mid-tier costs with lower income

Kingman's $807 monthly rent falls between Haskell ($776) and Jackson ($856), but the county's lower median income of $59,819 makes the relative burden steeper. Home values at $107,400 remain affordable, with monthly ownership costs of $771 suggesting homeownership may ease financial pressure.

Renters stretch, homeowners stabilize

Renters spend 16.2% of their $59,819 income on housing, exceeding healthy thresholds, while homeowners commit a more sustainable 15.4% to monthly costs of $771. This gap suggests homeownership offers financial relief for Kingman residents seeking stable housing costs.

Consider homeownership over renting

Kingman County suits prospective homebuyers seeking affordable property around $107,400 with manageable monthly payments, but renters should budget carefully as housing costs exceed comfort zones. If you're relocating to Kingman, prioritize paths to homeownership or compare rents in nearby Haskell County before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kingman County

via IncomeByCounty

Kingman Trails National Income Significantly

Kingman County's median household income of $59,819 trails the national median of $74,755 by 20%, reflecting rural Kansas's structural income headwinds. This gap is typical for agricultural counties with limited employment diversification and population decline. Kingman ranks in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties by median household income.

Below-Average Kansas County

At $59,819, Kingman County falls 7.1% below Kansas's state average of $64,428, ranking in the lower-middle tier statewide. Per capita income of $32,969 suggests income concentration or significant part-time work within households. Kingman requires economic development to reach state-average income levels.

Below Most Regional Peers

Kingman County's $59,819 median income trails Jackson ($72,703), Jefferson ($77,393), Kearny ($74,135), Haskell ($69,138), and Hodgeman ($63,125), but exceeds only Jewell County ($52,344). The $10,000–20,000 gap to stronger neighbors reflects limited job diversity and wage scales. Kingman faces structural economic challenges shared by declining rural counties.

Affordability Stressed by Rent

Kingman's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio is elevated, approaching the 30% burden threshold and indicating housing costs consume meaningful household income. A median home value of $107,400 is affordable, but renters and lower-wage workers face material affordability strain. Kingman households need income growth or cost reductions to ease housing pressure.

Build Emergency Fund First

Kingman households with constrained incomes should establish a 3-6 month emergency fund before pursuing aggressive investments to weather job transitions. Employer retirement plans, even small contributions, provide immediate tax advantages and long-term compounding that build stability. Conservative, consistent steps beat risky strategies when income is tight.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kingman County

via CrimeByCounty

Kingman County Boasts Excellent Safety

Kingman County features a total crime rate of 746.4 per 100,000, which is over 68% lower than the national average. This high level of security earns the county a safety score of 98.8 out of 100. It is statistically much safer than the average American community.

Surpassing Kansas Safety Benchmarks

The county's safety score of 98.8 exceeds the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 746.4 is also significantly better than the state average of 1,282.2. Kingman County remains a top-tier choice for safety within the state.

Reliable Safety Across Two Agencies

With two agencies reporting, Kingman County provides a clear and consistent picture of its low crime rates. The rate of 746.4 shows it is notably safer than several neighboring areas closer to urban centers. This regional advantage makes it an attractive place for those prioritizing security.

Property and Violent Crimes Remain Low

Property crime is recorded at 597.1 per 100,000, while violent crime sits at 149.3. Both figures are drastically lower than national levels, with violent crime being less than half the U.S. average of 369.8. Residents live with very little risk of physical crime or significant theft.

Keeping Kingman Safe and Secure

While property crime rates are low, basic precautions like locking up equipment and using motion sensors can deter opportunistic thieves. Maintaining these habits ensures that Kingman County keeps its high safety score of 98.8. A little vigilance goes a long way in this peaceful community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Kingman County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Versatile Nine-School Public System

Kingman County supports 1,182 students across nine public schools. The landscape features three elementary, two middle, and four high schools managed by two districts. This provides a clear and steady pathway for students from kindergarten through graduation.

Consistent Success and Strong Benchmarks

The county's 90.3% graduation rate surpasses both state and national averages. With a school score of 57.6, the county slightly exceeds the Kansas state average of 57.2. Spending remains efficient at $8,828 per pupil, slightly below the state average of $9,009.

Kingman-Norwich Leads Local Education

The Kingman-Norwich district is the primary provider, serving 954 students across seven schools. Cunningham is a smaller district that manages two schools and 228 students. No charter schools are active in the county, maintaining a tradition of strong local public districts.

A Classic Mix of Towns and Rural Schools

Kingman County features seven schools in rural settings and two in town locales. Kingman Elementary is the largest school with 349 students, while Kingman Middle serves a smaller group of 94. The average school size of 131 students ensures a comfortable, community-oriented feeling for every child.

Join a High-Performing Rural Community

With solid graduation rates and a variety of school sizes, Kingman County is a great choice for growing families. Explore the real estate market to find a home near the Kingman-Norwich or Cunningham schools. This area offers the perfect balance of rural charm and academic stability.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kingman County

via RiskByCounty

Kingman County Above National Average

Kingman County scores 35.56 on the composite risk scale, exceeding the national average and placing it in the Very Low category. However, this reflects significant exposure to wildfires and tornadoes that demand household preparation.

Higher Risk Than Most Kansas Counties

At 35.56, Kingman exceeds the Kansas average of 29.89, placing it in the state's higher-risk tier. The county's wildfire exposure at 86.70 approaches Jackson County levels, making it a regional hazard hotspot.

Riskiest County in Its Cluster

Kingman (35.56) significantly outperforms only Jewell (25.29) and Haskell (15.01) among western neighbors, with wildfire exposure of 86.70 that rivals Jackson County. Its tornado risk at 65.39 also exceeds most surrounding counties.

Wildfires and Tornadoes Dominate Kingman

Wildfire risk reaches 86.70 and tornado risk 65.39, making these Kansas's highest combined exposure in this sample. Both hazards demand year-round preparedness and active risk management.

Dual Preparation for Fire and Storm

Confirm your policy covers both wildfire and wind/tornado damage—Kingman experiences both at above-average rates. Maintain extensive defensible space around your home and establish a basement safe room or reinforced shelter for tornado season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Kingman County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance Faces Challenges

With 2 health violations over five years, Kingman County receives an F grade. However, its violation rate of 45.8 per 100,000 is still notably better than the state average of 313.4.

Watershed Assessment Data Currently Unavailable

Federal agencies have not yet assessed Kingman County’s water bodies for impairment under the Clean Water Act. No specific pollutant causes or impairment percentages are available for the current cycle.

Limited Physical and Nutrient Monitoring

One monitoring site has provided 20 measurements over the past five years in Kingman County. These records primarily track physical characteristics, nutrients, inorganics, and major metals.

Ninnescah River Flow Below Normal

The South Fork Ninnescah River near Murdock is flowing at 97 cfs, which is 47% of its long-term mean. This gauge monitors the health of a 597-square-mile drainage area.

Be Proactive About Water Testing

The presence of health violations and limited data suggests that residents should be proactive about testing their own water. Monitor the Ninnescah River levels, as reduced flow can impact the quality of source water.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kingman County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently Warm with Moderate Rain

Kingman County’s 56.3°F average annual temperature is several degrees higher than the national median. It receives 33.0 inches of precipitation, making it wetter than the far western plains.

One of the State's Warmer Spots

Kingman is warmer than the Kansas average of 54.8°F and slightly wetter than the state mean of 30.3 inches. This combination makes it a productive but hot agricultural region.

Hottest July in the Region

Kingman's July average of 80.5°F is the highest among its peers in this data set. It is also notably less snowy than western neighbors, recording only 10.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Long Summers and Mild Winters

The county faces 68 days of extreme heat each year, with summer averages hovering at 78.3°F. Winters are among the mildest in the state, averaging 34.1°F with minimal snow accumulation.

Equip for Peak Summer Temperatures

The 80.5°F July average and 68 days of extreme heat require robust cooling solutions and outdoor heat safety plans. Low snowfall of 10.8 inches means winter maintenance is easier than in northern Kansas.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kingman County

via SoilByCounty

Perfectly Neutral Growing Base

Kingman County features a pH of 6.61, nearly perfectly aligned with the national median of 6.5. This neutral balance provides an excellent chemical foundation for most garden plants and local agriculture.

Sand-Dominant Composition

The soil is over half sand at 51.1%, with 31.6% silt and 16.8% clay. This sandy composition allows for easy root penetration and very fast drainage after heavy Kansas storms.

Managing Lighter Soils

Organic matter levels are 1.57%, which is below the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity is 0.157 in/in, also trailing the state average and suggesting a need for consistent hydration.

Resilient Against Compaction

Detailed drainage classifications are not listed for the primary soil types here. However, the high sand content generally points toward a well-drained environment that resists heavy soil compaction.

Extended Season in Zone 7a

Sitting in the warmer zone 7a, Kingman County has a longer growing season than many of its northern neighbors. Take advantage of the mild winters by planting fruit trees or starting early-season vegetables.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kingman County

via LawnByCounty

Kingman County's Growing Edge

Kingman County earns a solid 62.3 lawn difficulty score, making it easier to grow grass here than the state average of 59.1. As a Zone 7a region, you have a slight warmth advantage over most of Kansas.

Consistent Rain, Intense Heat

You receive 33.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is slightly above the state average and helps keep lawns hydrated. However, 68 extreme heat days per year require you to be vigilant about summer heat stress and dormancy.

Sandy Foundations and Good pH

Your soil is very sandy at 51.1%, paired with a healthy pH of 6.61. This ensures your lawn won't suffer from waterlogging, but you will need to add organic matter to help the soil hold onto moisture and nutrients.

Watching the Dry Horizon

With 93.5% of the county currently abnormally dry, water conservation is key despite having only 13 drought weeks last year. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to train roots to grow deeper into the sandy soil.

Warmer Options for Zone 7a

Being in Zone 7a allows you to consider heat-tolerant grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia alongside tall fescue. Aim to seed after the April 15 last frost, or prepare for fall growth before the October 29 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kingman County's county score?
Kingman County, Kansas has a composite county score of 48.9 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 Kingman County rank among counties in Kansas?
Kingman County ranks #62 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 Kingman County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Kingman County is $1,916, with an effective tax rate of 1.78%. This earns Kingman County a tax score of 5.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kingman County?
The median household income in Kingman County, Kansas is $59,819 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kingman County earns an income score of 38.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kingman County, Kansas a good place to live?
Kingman County scores 48.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #62 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Kingman 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 Kingman County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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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.