countyscore
56.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 87.8Safety 75.5Lawn Care 68.5

County Report Card

About Linn County, Kansas

Stronger Than the Average County

Linn County earns a composite score of 56.6, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This suggests a balanced lifestyle with several key advantages over the national norm.

Outperforming the Kansas Average

With a score of 56.6, Linn County exceeds the Kansas state average of 49.5. It offers a more secure environment than many surrounding agricultural counties.

Security and Low Environmental Risk

The county excels in stability, featuring a Risk Score of 87.8 and a Safety Score of 75.5. These scores indicate a community well-protected from both crime and natural disasters.

Water and Healthcare Needs

Linn struggles with a low Water Score of 19.1 and a Health Score of 45.2. These figures suggest that residents may face longer commutes for healthcare or concerns regarding utility infrastructure.

Ideal for Secure Rural Living

Linn County is a great fit for families seeking safety and disaster resilience in a quiet setting. It provides a solid foundation for those who don't mind traveling for specialized medical services.

Score breakdown

Tax31.5Cost65.7Safety75.5Health45.2Schools61.6Income36.4Risk87.8Water19.1Weather57.6
🏛31.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠65.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼36.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤45.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡87.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧19.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨56.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.5
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

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44.4
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45.2
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41.9
Anderson County
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Allen County
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Cass County
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Deep Dives

Linn County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Linn County

via TaxByCounty

Linn offers Kansas's lowest tax rate

At 1.094%, Linn County's effective property tax rate ranks among the lowest in the nation, placing it well below the national median of 1.409%. The median property tax of $1,800 remains below the national median of $2,690, delivering strong savings for homeowners.

Linn beats all Kansas counties on rate

Linn's 1.094% effective rate is the lowest among the eight counties examined and well below Kansas's statewide average of 1.549%. The county's median tax of $1,800 trails the state median of $1,943 by $143, making Linn one of Kansas's most tax-friendly jurisdictions.

Linn's low rate dominates the region

Linn County's 1.094% rate beats every neighboring county examined; the next lowest, Kiowa, checks in at 1.159%. For rural Kansas counties seeking tax relief, Linn stands out significantly.

Your property tax on median home value

A home valued at $164,500 in Linn County carries an estimated annual property tax of $1,800. With mortgage escrow included, your annual tax obligation reaches approximately $1,847.

Verify your assessment reflects fair value

Even in low-tax Linn County, homeowners should verify their assessments for accuracy and fairness; overvaluation corrections can yield additional savings. Contact the county appraiser to appeal if you believe your property is overassessed.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Linn County

via CostByCounty

Linn rents stay near national average

Linn County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.8% sits just below the national average, reflecting moderate housing costs relative to earnings. With median rent at $682 and household income at $59,200, Linn offers reasonable affordability for Kansas.

Linn stays below state average

Linn County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the Kansas average of 14.7%, placing it slightly ahead of most state peers. Monthly rent of $682 runs $105 below the state median, contributing to Linn's favorable affordability ranking.

Linn balances cost and value

Linn's $682 rent falls between Lane County ($497) and Logan County ($796), while its $164,500 median home value ranks among the region's higher-value properties. This suggests Linn attracts buyers and renters seeking substance—more amenities and housing quality than ultra-low-cost neighbors.

Owner costs rise in Linn

Renters pay $682 monthly while homeowners average $886, reflecting Linn's higher median home value of $164,500 relative to neighboring counties. At 13.8% of income spent on rent, Linn renters maintain manageable housing expenses despite the county's modest household incomes.

Linn: quality meets affordability

Linn County strikes a balance—offering 13.8% rent-to-income affordability with higher-value homes ($164,500 median) than cheaper neighbors, suggesting better housing quality and local amenities. If you're weighing Linn against ultra-low-cost Lane County, consider what services and community features matter most to your move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Linn County

via IncomeByCounty

Linn moderately below national income

Linn County's median household income of $59,200 trails the national median of $74,755 by $15,555—a 21% gap reflecting a below-average local economy. This positions Linn in the lower-middle tier nationally.

Near Kansas state average

Linn County's median household income of $59,200 sits slightly below Kansas's state average of $64,428, with a gap of roughly $5,228. Its per capita income of $36,213 exceeds the state average of $34,748.

Mid-range earner in region

Linn's $59,200 median income positions it above lower-earning Lane ($53,042) and Lincoln ($53,546) but below Kiowa ($73,214) and Leavenworth ($86,906). It represents moderate economic performance within its region.

Moderate housing affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of 13.8%, Linn households maintain reasonable housing affordability, though the median home value of $164,500 is notably higher than other lower-income counties. Budgeting remains important but manageable.

Balanced savings and investment approach

Linn County households are well-positioned to balance current expenses with future security through regular 401(k) contributions and low-cost index investing. Moderate incomes support both debt management and wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Linn County

via CrimeByCounty

Linn County Maintains Strong National Safety Standing

Linn County reports a total crime rate of 587.9 per 100K, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county's safety score of 99.1 indicates it is among the safest regions in the United States. Five reporting agencies contribute to this high-confidence data.

Linn County Ranks Above Kansas State Average

Linn's safety score of 99.1 is higher than the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 587.9 per 100K is also less than half of the state's average rate of 1,282.2. Residents enjoy a level of security that surpasses most of the state.

Safety Leader Among Regional Neighbors

Linn County's crime rate is notably lower than Leavenworth or Lyon counties. With 587.9 crimes per 100K, it provides a very tranquil environment compared to more populated areas. Multiple reporting agencies ensure these numbers are an accurate reflection of local life.

Very Low Violent Crime in Linn County

The violent crime rate in Linn County is just 82.5 per 100K, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also low at 505.4 per 100K. These figures suggest that crimes against both persons and property are rare occurrences here.

Simple Measures for a Safe Linn Home

With property crime as the primary (though low) risk, residents can focus on basic home defense. Outdoor lighting and locked garages are effective deterrents against the occasional opportunistic theft. Linn County's safety is a community-wide success story.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Linn County

via HealthByCounty

Linn County faces significant health crisis

At 72.5 years, Linn County's life expectancy is 6.4 years below the U.S. average of 78.9 years—among the lowest in the nation. With 16.4% reporting poor or fair health, the county reflects chronic health challenges requiring urgent community attention.

Shortest life expectancy in Kansas sample

Linn County's 72.5-year life expectancy falls 2.9 years below Kansas's 75.4-year average, the lowest among these eight counties. Though the 10.5% uninsured rate is near the state average of 11.5%, coverage gaps alone don't explain the pronounced longevity gap.

Health outcomes significantly lag region

Linn County's 72.5-year life expectancy trails neighboring Lincoln County by 4.7 years and Leavenworth County by 4.5 years. The county's critical shortage of primary care providers—just 10 per 100K versus state norms of 50+—severely restricts access to routine medical care.

Provider shortage blocks healthcare access

With only 10 primary care providers per 100K—compared to 69 in Lincoln County—Linn County residents face significant barriers to routine medical care. The 10.5% uninsured rate compounds this challenge, and 122 mental health providers per 100K cannot substitute for inadequate primary care infrastructure.

Insurance plus outreach can help

For Linn County's uninsured residents, Healthcare.gov enrollment is essential—10.5% of the population lacks coverage that could enable care access. Community health centers and telehealth options may help bridge the primary care provider gap while the county addresses long-term infrastructure needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Linn County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Education Infrastructure in Linn

Linn County supports 1,805 students across 8 public schools, including 4 elementary and 3 high schools. These schools are organized into 3 districts that cover the county's varied geography. The presence of a middle school ensures a smooth transition between educational levels.

Meeting State Benchmarks for Success

The graduation rate in Linn County is 89.0%, slightly outperforming the state average of 88.7%. Spending is consistent with state trends at $9,070 per pupil. These metrics result in a school score of 57.5, aligning perfectly with the broader Kansas median.

Prairie View Leads the Local Districts

Prairie View is the largest district in the county, educating 871 students across 4 schools. Jayhawk and Pleasanton districts follow, with 575 and 359 students respectively. All schools in the county are traditional public institutions, as no charter schools currently operate here.

Quiet Rural Schools and Mid-Sized Classes

All 8 schools are located in rural settings, maintaining the county's quiet, agrarian character. The average school size is 226 students, with Jayhawk Elementary being the largest at 316 students. This scale offers a balance between small-town intimacy and diverse peer social groups.

A Solid Foundation for Your Children

Linn County offers steady academic performance and a graduation rate that meets state standards. Families will appreciate the consistent rural environment and mid-sized student bodies. Consider making a home in the Prairie View or Jayhawk districts for a balanced educational experience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Linn County

via RiskByCounty

Linn ranks among America's safest

Linn County's composite risk score of 12.25 places it firmly in the Very Low category, well below the national average. This southeastern Kansas county offers residents substantially lower natural disaster exposure than most of the nation.

Among Kansas's lowest-risk counties

Linn's score of 12.25 is less than half the Kansas state average of 29.89, making it one of the state's safest counties. Only Lane County (2.32) has a notably lower risk profile statewide.

Safer than regional comparables

Linn County's risk profile is substantially lower than neighboring Labette County (66.19), making it one of the region's safer communities. Linn benefits from a more favorable natural disaster exposure pattern than most eastern Kansas peers.

Tornado risk leads, but remains low

Tornado risk scores 38.87 in Linn County, its highest hazard exposure, though this remains below state averages. Wildfire (36.32) and flood (22.93) risks follow, representing secondary concerns in this relatively safe county.

Standard coverage typically adequate

Linn County's very low composite risk means standard homeowners insurance provides solid protection for most residents. However, those in tornado-prone corridors should verify strong wind and tornado coverage is included in their policy.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Linn County

via WeatherByCounty

A Moderately Warm and Rain-Rich Climate

Linn County's 55.1°F average temperature is about one degree warmer than the national median. This eastern county is quite wet, receiving 42.3 inches of precipitation annually.

Higher Precipitation Than Most of Kansas

Linn exceeds the state average temperature of 54.8°F and is significantly wetter than the 30.3-inch state average. It is one of the state's most moisture-abundant regions.

Milder Summer Heat Than Neighbors

Compared to Labette to the south, Linn is cooler and has fewer extreme heat days. While Labette sees 48 days over 90°F, Linn only records 33 such days.

Mild Summers and Standard Kansas Winters

Summers are relatively mild with only 33 days above 90°F, which is low for Kansas. Winters bring a 33.1°F average and 13.5 inches of snow.

Address Drainage and Winter Ice

Proper drainage is the primary concern with over 42 inches of rain every year. The 13.5 inches of snow is moderate, but ice is a risk given the 30.5°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Linn County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Rich in Linn County

Linn County has a more acidic soil profile, with a pH of 6.04 compared to the national median of 6.5. This level is significantly lower than the Kansas state average of 6.80, which can benefit acid-loving plants like blueberries or azaleas. Understanding this chemistry is the first step toward managing a healthy local garden.

Silt-Heavy Soils with Low Sand

The soil composition is 55.8% silt and 27.1% clay, with sand making up only 13.1%. This low sand content means the soil is dense and excels at holding onto vital nutrients. However, the high clay and silt mix can become very heavy and slow to drain after a storm.

Peak Organic Matter Levels

Linn County boasts an impressive organic matter content of 2.71%, one of the highest in the region and far above the state average of 2.22%. While available water capacity is slightly lower than the state benchmark at 0.174 in/in, the rich organic content provides a fertile base. This soil is naturally energized for productive growing.

Managing Dense Silty Soil

Drainage data is limited, but the low sand percentage indicates that water moves slowly through the soil profile. This is common in the eastern part of the state where silt and clay are more prevalent. Improving soil structure with organic amendments can help improve the aeration of these dense soils.

Acid-Loving Plants thrive in 6b

Zone 6b in Linn County is perfect for a wide range of berry bushes and hardy vegetables. The high organic matter naturally supports vigorous growth for heavy feeders like squash and tomatoes. Embrace the unique acidity of your soil and start a garden tailored to these rich, dark earths.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Linn County

via LawnByCounty

Excellent Growing Conditions in Linn

Linn County offers some of the best lawn conditions in the state with a difficulty score of 68.5. The Zone 6b climate provides a robust environment that is significantly more hospitable than the national average.

Plentiful Rain and Low Heat Stress

With 42.3 inches of annual rainfall, Linn County exceeds the state average and sits comfortably in the ideal range for turf. The county also experiences only 33 extreme heat days, which is remarkably low for Kansas and reduces summer dormancy risks.

Monitoring Acidic Soil Trends

The soil pH of 6.04 is on the lower end of the ideal spectrum, meaning some lawns may benefit from a light lime application to prevent further acidification. The 27.1% clay content provides a strong foundation for holding the region's abundant rainfall.

Watching for Abnormally Dry Weather

Despite 19 weeks of drought last year, currently, the county is almost entirely classified as abnormally dry at 99.5%. However, with no severe drought present, homeowners can maintain their lawns by following local water guidelines and using mulch to retain moisture.

Maximizing a Long Growing Season

The window between the April 13 spring frost and the October 23 fall frost is ideal for establishing cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Tall Fescue. These varieties will thrive under Linn County's generous rainfall and moderate summer temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Linn County's county score?
Linn County, Kansas has a composite county score of 56.6 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 Linn County rank among counties in Kansas?
Linn County ranks #27 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 Linn County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Linn County is $1,800, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Linn County a tax score of 31.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Linn County?
The median household income in Linn County, Kansas is $59,200 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Linn County earns an income score of 36.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Linn County, Kansas a good place to live?
Linn County scores 56.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #27 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Linn 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 Linn 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.