countyscore
55.5
County Score
Cost of Living 87.2Property Tax 77.6Disaster Risk 64.2

County Report Card

About Kiowa County, Oklahoma

Above the National Median

Kiowa County impresses with a CountyScore of 55.5, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This high score indicates a better-than-average balance of costs and safety. It ranks as a hidden gem in terms of overall national livability.

Leading the Oklahoma Rankings

With a 55.5 composite score, Kiowa County far exceeds the Oklahoma state average of 43.0. It is one of the highest-rated counties in the state for its specific mix of affordability and safety. It offers a quality of life that is difficult to match in neighboring areas.

Unmatched Affordability and Solid Schools

A Cost Score of 87.2 is backed by a median home value of only $90,300, making it incredibly budget-friendly. The county also maintains a respectable School Score of 53.9 and a Tax Score of 77.6. These strengths suggest a community that manages its resources effectively for its citizens.

Economic and Healthcare Limitations

The Income Score of 4.4 is the county's biggest hurdle, reflecting a median household income of $42,063. Health services also lag with a score of 14.1, and water infrastructure remains a concern at 4.5. Residents likely trade career opportunities for lower living costs.

Perfect for Living Large on Less

Kiowa County is the ultimate destination for those looking to minimize their cost of living without sacrificing school quality or safety. It is best for retirees or remote workers who don't need to rely on the local job market. It offers a rare combination of safety and extreme affordability.

Score breakdown

Tax77.6Cost87.2Safety59Health14.1Schools53.9Income4.4Risk64.2Water4.5Weather49.1
🏛77.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠87.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼4.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤14.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧4.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨39.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.6
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

Washita County
Oklahoma
53.8
Greer County
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Jackson County
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Tillman County
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Comanche County
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Beckham County
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Caddo County
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Deep Dives

Kiowa County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kiowa County

via TaxByCounty

Kiowa County taxes rank among lowest in nation

Kiowa County's effective tax rate of 0.573% is well below the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the bottom quarter of American counties for tax burden. The median property tax of $517 annually represents just 19% of the national median of $2,690, making Kiowa one of the most tax-friendly counties nationally.

Kiowa County has lower-than-average Oklahoma taxes

Kiowa County's 0.573% effective rate sits below Oklahoma's state average of 0.652%, ranking among the most affordable counties statewide. The median tax bill of $517 is substantially lower than Oklahoma's state median of $959, reflecting both lower home values and favorable tax policies.

Competitive rates among southwestern Oklahoma counties

Kiowa County's 0.573% effective rate sits between Johnston County (0.555%) and Jackson County (0.633%), making it a middle-ground option in southwestern Oklahoma. The county offers better rates than Kay County (0.684%) and Le Flore County (0.653%) to the east.

Median annual tax on Kiowa County home

The typical Kiowa County homeowner with a $90,300 house pays about $517 per year in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $737 annually including escrow, while those without mortgages pay $419.

Appeal your assessment if you think it's high

Many Kiowa County homeowners are assessed above market value and don't realize they can appeal. If your property feels overvalued, contact the county assessor's office about a formal reassessment—thousands of Oklahomans successfully reduce their tax burden this way each year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kiowa County

via CostByCounty

Kiowa County faces steep housing-income strain

Kiowa County's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in this county group and significantly above Oklahoma's state average of 17.0%, indicating serious affordability challenges. With a median household income of just $42,063—the lowest among peers—residents paying $675/month in rent experience the region's tightest housing burden.

Kiowa County struggles for affordability

Kiowa County ranks among Oklahoma's least affordable counties with a 19.3% rent-to-income ratio exceeding the state average by 2.3 percentage points. Despite modest rent at $675/month, the lowest median income in this group of $42,063 stretches housing costs dangerously high relative to earnings.

Kiowa among the region's most challenged

Kiowa County's $675 rent is affordable in isolation, but paired with the lowest median income ($42,063) among peer counties, it creates the highest rent-to-income ratio at 19.3%. Owner costs of $589/month and a median home value of $90,300 offer no relief, as all housing options strain tight budgets.

Kiowa's housing crisis in budget reality

Kiowa County residents earning $42,063 annually dedicate 19.3% of gross income to $675/month rent, leaving little for utilities, food, and transportation. Homeowners paying $589/month face 16.8% of income going to mortgages alone, making Kiowa the region's most housing-stressed county.

Kiowa County: only for low-cost seekers

Kiowa County's tight affordability makes it viable only for retirees on fixed income, gig workers with supplemental earnings, or those relocating from even higher-cost areas. If you earn less than $50,000 and need affordable housing, consider Jefferson or Jackson County's better income-to-housing ratios instead.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kiowa County

via IncomeByCounty

Kiowa County faces significant income challenges

Kiowa County's median household income of $42,063 is 44% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it among the nation's lower-income rural counties. This substantial gap reflects limited economic opportunities and employment challenges in the area.

Kiowa County ranks among Oklahoma's lowest earners

Kiowa County's median household income of $42,063 falls nearly $16,200 below the Oklahoma state average of $58,273, ranking it among the lowest in the state. The per capita income of $24,928 is well below the state average of $30,609, indicating widespread lower earnings.

Kiowa County struggles in its regional context

Kiowa County households earn $6,687 less than Jefferson County ($48,750) and $8,848 less than Johnston County ($50,911). Only Latimer County ($41,048) earns less in the surrounding area, underscoring Kiowa's economic hardships.

High housing costs strain limited household income

Kiowa County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.3% is among the highest in the region, indicating housing costs consume a concerning share of already-limited household income. The median home value of $90,300 is affordable, but tight budgets leave little room for savings or unexpected expenses.

Focus on financial stability and community resources

Kiowa County residents facing income constraints should prioritize financial counseling and local assistance programs to build resilience. Even modest savings contributions and access to employer benefits can provide a foundation for gradual wealth building over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kiowa County

via CrimeByCounty

Kiowa County Sets a High Safety Standard

Kiowa County boasts an exceptional safety score of 98.5, well above national benchmarks. Its total crime rate of 947.2 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading Oklahoma in Public Safety

The county's total crime rate of 947.2 per 100K is among the lowest in Oklahoma, where the state average is 2,647.7. Its 98.5 safety score significantly outperforms the state average of 95.8.

A Regional Leader in Low Crime

Data from 5 reporting agencies shows that Kiowa County is one of the safest areas in the state. Its crime rate is nearly 1,700 points lower than the average Oklahoma county.

Low Rates for Both Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 153.9 per 100K, which is less than half the national average. Property crime is also impressively low at 793.3 per 100K, compared to the national rate of 2,015.7.

Maintain Your Home's Security in Kiowa

Even with an extremely low property crime rate of 793.3 per 100K, residents should stay vigilant. Basic home security habits ensure Kiowa County remains one of the safest spots in Oklahoma.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kiowa County

via HealthByCounty

Kiowa County faces significant health challenges

Life expectancy in Kiowa County is 70.1 years—the lowest in this dataset and over a year below the U.S. average of 71.4 years. Nearly one in four residents (24.7%) report poor or fair health, indicating substantial community health struggles.

County ranks among Oklahoma's poorest health outcomes

Kiowa County's 70.1-year life expectancy ranks in the bottom tier of Oklahoma's counties, falling 2.6 years below the state average of 72.7 years. The 24.7% poor/fair health rate underscores deeply rooted health disparities.

Significant disparities compared to adjacent counties

Jackson County residents live 2.9 years longer than Kiowa County residents, and Kay County (71.8 years) also outpaces Kiowa substantially. Limited primary care provider capacity at 36 per 100,000 compounds the health disadvantage Kiowa County residents face.

Sparse provider network and insurance barriers

Kiowa County has just 36 primary care providers per 100,000 and 155 mental health providers per 100,000—limited resources for community health needs. Though the 13.9% uninsured rate is slightly below state average, the scarcity of available providers means coverage alone doesn't guarantee easy access to care.

Coverage is essential for your health

Kiowa County residents should prioritize finding health insurance coverage to support preventive care and catch health problems early. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit healthcare.gov to explore plans that may reduce your out-of-pocket costs and improve access to the care this community needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kiowa County

via SchoolsByCounty

Four Districts Supporting Kiowa County Students

Kiowa County maintains 10 public schools across four districts, providing education for 1,548 total students. The infrastructure includes four elementary, two middle, and four high schools.

Exceeding National Graduation Benchmarks

Kiowa County excels with a 92.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87.0%. School funding stands at $7,087 per pupil, which is notably higher than the state average of $6,520.

Hobart District Leads Local Education

Hobart is the largest district, serving 726 students across its three schools. Other local options include Snyder and Lone Wolf districts, with zero charter schools currently operating in the county.

Small Classes in Town and Country

Seven rural schools and three town-based schools create an average enrollment of 155 students per campus. HOBART ES is the largest facility with 366 students, ensuring students receive personalized attention throughout their schooling.

Quality Education and Community Living

With some of the highest graduation rates in the state, Kiowa County is an attractive option for family-focused homebuyers. Explore residential listings near Hobart to enjoy a strong sense of community and proven academic results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kiowa County

via RiskByCounty

Kiowa County has very low risk

Kiowa County's composite risk score of 35.78 ranks as very low—substantially below the national average and well under Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. This favorable profile reflects moderate hazard exposure across categories.

Well below Oklahoma's average risk

At 35.78, Kiowa County ranks among the safer counties statewide, well below the state average of 55.47. The county benefits from a relatively low natural disaster risk compared to most of Oklahoma.

Safest county in its region

Kiowa County's score of 35.78 is substantially lower than Jackson County (86.04) and Kingfisher County (56.84), making it one of the safer areas regionally. The county enjoys notably lower hazard exposure than its surrounding peers.

Tornado and wildfire exposure

Tornado risk stands at 72.39—elevated but manageable—while wildfire risk (71.63) presents the county's second-highest exposure. Flood and earthquake risks remain secondary concerns in Kiowa County's overall hazard profile.

Standard homeowners policy sufficient

A basic homeowners policy covering wind and tornado damage provides solid protection for most Kiowa County properties. Residents should still ensure adequate coverage limits and consider flood insurance if near flood-prone areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kiowa County

via WeatherByCounty

Hot and Semi-Arid Southwest

Kiowa County's 61.5°F average annual temperature is warmer than the national median. This area transitions into a drier, semi-arid climate typical of the American Southwest.

One of Oklahoma's Driest Counties

The county receives only 30.1 inches of rain annually, well below the Oklahoma state average of 37.2 inches. Its 61.5°F average temperature is more than a degree warmer than the state average.

Drier and Hotter Than Neighbors

Kiowa is significantly drier than Johnston County, receiving 12 inches less rain per year. It also endures 94 days of extreme heat, making it one of the hottest spots in its regional peer group.

Intense Heat and Dry Winters

July averages 84.3°F, contributing to a grueling 94 days of extreme heat every year. Winters are relatively dry and mild, with only 3.5 inches of snow and a 40.8°F average temperature.

Prioritize Water and Heat Safety

Xeriscaping is a practical choice for the low 30.1 inches of annual rainfall. Residents should prepare for heat waves that last over a quarter of the year, focusing on high-performance home cooling.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kiowa County

via SoilByCounty

Granite Shadows and Neutral Soils

Kiowa County features a pH of 6.45, placing it nearly exactly at the national median of 6.5. This is significantly more alkaline than the Oklahoma state average of 6.06, making it some of the most chemically balanced soil in the region. Though taxonomic data is limited, the pH supports a wide range of botanical diversity.

A Balanced Mix of Sand and Clay

The soil is a balanced blend of 35.1% sand, 32.3% silt, and 20.0% clay. This proportion offers a good compromise between the drainage of sand and the nutrient-holding capacity of clay. It provides a stable base for both native grasses and cultivated row crops.

Moisture Management in a Dry Landscape

The available water capacity is 0.129 in/in, which is lower than the state average of 0.144. Organic matter is also modest at 1.34%, trailing the Oklahoma average of 1.72%. These numbers suggest that while the soil is chemically sound, it requires careful water management to thrive in the summer.

High Runoff Risk During Storms

This county's soil is categorized in hydrologic group D, indicating very slow infiltration rates and high runoff potential. Despite the balanced texture, the underlying soil structure likely restricts water movement during heavy rains. Managing water flow is essential to prevent soil loss in this rugged landscape.

Southwest Beauty in Zone 7b

Kiowa County’s zone 7b climate and neutral soil are perfect for drought-resistant natives and hardy vegetables like squash. The balanced soil texture is easy for home gardeners to work with throughout the seasons. With a little supplemental irrigation, your garden can become a local oasis.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kiowa County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Growing in Kiowa County

A lawn difficulty score of 39.6 reveals that Kiowa County is one of the more challenging spots for turf in Oklahoma. The 7b hardiness zone brings intense summer pressure that tests even the hardiest grass species. You will need a strategic approach to maintain a green yard here.

Harsh Heat and Sparse Rain

The county endures 94 extreme heat days per year, well above the 76-day state average. With only 30.1 inches of annual precipitation, your lawn is at the very bottom of the ideal rainfall range. This combination often leads to heat dormancy in non-irrigated turf during the peak of summer.

Reliable pH for Nutrient Access

The soil pH of 6.45 is excellent, allowing your grass to efficiently use any fertilizer you apply. The soil consists of 35.1% sand and 20% clay, providing a decent balance of drainage and structure. While soil data for drainage is limited, the chemical profile is very favorable for lawn health.

Severe Drought Challenges Persist

Kiowa County is currently 100% covered by severe drought conditions, with 33 weeks of drought in the last year. Water conservation is not just suggested—it is essential for lawn survival. Prioritize watering the most visible or valuable areas of your yard during these critical periods.

Wait for the April Thaw

Plan your lawn start for after the last frost on April 4. Bermuda grass is the most resilient option for this climate, as it can withstand the 94 days of extreme heat. Ensure your irrigation system is fully functional before the summer heat hits.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kiowa County's county score?
Kiowa County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 55.5 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 Kiowa County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Kiowa County ranks #7 among all counties in Oklahoma 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 Kiowa County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Kiowa County is $517, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Kiowa County a tax score of 77.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kiowa County?
The median household income in Kiowa County, Oklahoma is $42,063 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kiowa County earns an income score of 4.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kiowa County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Kiowa County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Kiowa 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 Kiowa 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.