countyscore
39.6
County Score
Schools 72.2Lawn Care 69.7Soil Quality 64

County Report Card

About Lyon County, Kansas

Falling Short of National Median

Lyon County’s composite score of 39.6 is well below the national median of 50.0. Despite some institutional strengths, the county faces systemic challenges in tax and safety.

Lagging Behind Kansas Peers

Lyon County trails the Kansas state average of 49.5 by nearly ten points. It ranks lower than many other Kansas counties due to its economic and safety profiles.

Excellent Schools and Water Quality

Education is a bright spot, with a School Score of 72.2 that outshines many neighbors. The county also maintains reliable infrastructure with a Water Score of 52.5.

High Taxes and Safety Gaps

The Tax Score of 9.4 and an effective rate of 1.598% create a significant financial drag. Safety is also a major concern, with the dimension score dipping to 17.9.

Education-First with Trade-Offs

Lyon County is suited for those who prioritize quality education and reliable utilities above all else. However, residents must be prepared for higher crime rates and a steep local tax burden.

Score breakdown

Tax9.4Cost47.6Safety17.9Health48.7Schools72.2Income36Risk52.4Water52.5Weather49.4
🏛9.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠47.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼36
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡17.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤48.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓72.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡52.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧52.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.7
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Lyon County?

Many homeowners in Lyon County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Lyon County with Lander County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Lander County
Nevada
Median income: $84,474
39.6
Granville County
North Carolina
Median income: $70,975
39.6
New Hanover County
North Carolina
Median income: $72,892
39.6
Austin County
Texas
Median income: $75,994
39.6
Ochiltree County
Texas
Median income: $64,988
39.6
Prince William County
Virginia
Median income: $128,873
39.6
Tuscaloosa County
Alabama
Median income: $63,947
39.7
Berrien County
Georgia
Median income: $50,414
39.7

Nearby counties

Coffey County
Kansas
60.4
Osage County
Kansas
49.7
Chase County
Kansas
59.7
Morris County
Kansas
51.3
Greenwood County
Kansas
49.6
Wabaunsee County
Kansas
52.3
Franklin County
Kansas
40.2
Woodson County
Kansas
60

Deep Dives

Lyon County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lyon County

via TaxByCounty

Lyon taxes run above national average

At 1.598%, Lyon County's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 1.409%, placing the county in the upper half nationally. The median tax bill of $2,272 remains below the national median of $2,690, thanks to more modest median home values of $142,200.

Lyon ranks high among Kansas counties

Lyon's 1.598% effective rate exceeds Kansas's statewide average of 1.549%, making it one of the state's higher-taxed counties. The median tax of $2,272 significantly outpaces the state median of $1,943 by $329 annually.

Lyon taxes above most regional peers

Lyon's 1.598% rate ranks second-highest among the eight counties examined, exceeded only by Logan County (1.816%). The county's tax burden runs substantially above Linn (1.094%), Kiowa (1.159%), and Leavenworth (1.203%).

Your property tax on median home value

A home valued at $142,200 in Lyon County carries an estimated annual property tax of $2,272. With mortgage escrow, your annual tax obligation reaches approximately $2,363.

Appeal your assessment to save significantly

Lyon County homeowners facing above-average tax rates should carefully review their property assessments for potential overvaluation. Filing an appeal with the county appraiser is free and could reduce your annual tax burden substantially.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lyon County

via CostByCounty

Lyon's housing costs run high

Lyon County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% exceeds the national average, with renters dedicating a larger share of earnings to housing than typical Americans. At $796 monthly rent against $59,078 median household income, Lyon's lower wages relative to housing costs create affordability pressure.

Lyon carries above-average burden

Lyon County ranks among Kansas's higher-burden counties with a 16.2% rent-to-income ratio, exceeding the state average of 14.7% by 1.5 points. Monthly rent of $796 matches the state median, but Lyon's lower household income of $59,078 makes housing costs bite harder.

Lyon rents compete regionally

Lyon's $796 rent ties Logan County exactly and runs $68 above the state median, while median home value of $142,200 falls between Lane ($119,000) and Linn ($164,500). Despite competitive pricing, Lyon's lower incomes mean residents feel housing costs more acutely.

Homeownership strains in Lyon

Renters pay $796 monthly while homeowners average $998, reflecting Lyon's median home value of $142,200—higher relative to household incomes than neighboring counties. At 16.2% of income spent on rent, Lyon residents carry one of the region's tighter housing burdens.

Lyon: consider income carefully

Lyon County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio demands careful evaluation—housing costs consume more of paychecks than in neighboring counties with similar rents but better incomes. If relocating to Lyon, prioritize securing a strong local income or remote work to offset the 16.2% housing burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lyon County

via IncomeByCounty

Lyon lags national income by significant margin

Lyon County's median household income of $59,078 falls $15,677 short of the national median of $74,755—a 21% deficit. This gap reflects economic challenges relative to the broader U.S. economy.

Below Kansas state median

Lyon County ranks below Kansas's state median of $64,428 by approximately $5,350. Its per capita income of $29,881 trails the state average of $34,748 by 14%.

Lower-income county in sample

Lyon's $59,078 median household income ranks among the lower earners in this group, comparable to Linn ($59,200) and below Kiowa ($73,214) and Leavenworth ($86,906). It faces tougher economic conditions than several neighbors.

Housing costs strain household finances

Lyon's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2%—the highest in this sample—signals affordability stress approaching critical thresholds. The median home value of $142,200 is substantial relative to median household earnings.

Prioritize emergency savings first

Lyon County households should focus on building emergency reserves before aggressive investing, given tight budgets and higher housing costs. Automated, modest savings contributions provide a foundation for future wealth building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lyon County

via CrimeByCounty

Lyon County Crime Rates Track Below National Average

Lyon County's total crime rate is 2,190.7 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.5. Four agencies contribute to this data, providing a clear look at local safety trends.

Lyon County Safety Score Near State Average

The county's safety score of 96.5 is slightly lower than the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 2,190.7 per 100K is higher than the state average of 1,282.2. This indicates more frequent law enforcement activity than in typical Kansas rural areas.

A Regional Comparison of Crime Trends

Lyon County's safety profile is similar to Leavenworth County but involves slightly more total crime. It is significantly more active than rural neighbors like Linn or Kiowa. Residents should recognize that more urbanized areas naturally see higher incident reports.

Property Crime is the Primary Concern in Lyon

Property crime in Lyon County is 1,935.9 per 100K, which accounts for the vast majority of local incidents. The violent crime rate is 254.8 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 369.8. Most residents will find that personal safety is higher than in many other mid-sized counties.

Protecting Your Assets in Lyon County

Since property crime drives the local rate, residents should focus on securing valuables and vehicles. Using smart locks and keeping high-value items out of sight can prevent crimes of opportunity. Community awareness is key to keeping property crime rates in check.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lyon County

via HealthByCounty

Lyon's longevity meets national averages

Lyon County's 76.9-year life expectancy closely matches the U.S. average of 78.9 years, though trailing by 2 years. However, 18.5% report poor or fair health—the highest in this eight-county group—suggesting underlying health challenges despite solid longevity.

Health outcomes mixed amid coverage challenges

Lyon County's 76.9-year life expectancy slightly exceeds Kansas's 75.4-year average, but the 13.4% uninsured rate significantly exceeds the state average of 11.5%. The county's high poor/fair health rate of 18.5% indicates concentrated health struggles.

Highest uninsured rate in comparison group

Lyon County's 13.4% uninsured rate is the highest among these eight counties, exceeding even Lane County's 12.6%. Despite this coverage challenge, the county boasts 392 mental health providers per 100K—the most robust mental health infrastructure in the entire group.

Coverage gaps amid strong mental health access

With 13.4% uninsured, Lyon County residents face barriers to routine care despite having 59 primary care providers per 100K. The outstanding 392 mental health providers per 100K cannot fully compensate for those lacking insurance coverage for basic medical needs.

Close Lyon's coverage gap immediately

Lyon County's 13.4% uninsured rate—highest in this group—demands urgent enrollment outreach through Healthcare.gov and local health departments. Insurance access unlocks the county's excellent mental health services while enabling preventive primary care that could reduce the county's elevated poor/fair health rate.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lyon County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Education in Lyon County

Lyon County features 14 public schools, dominated by 9 elementary schools and 4 high schools. These institutions serve a large student body of 5,259 students managed by 3 districts. This broad infrastructure supports a significant regional population centered around Emporia.

Top-Tier Graduation and Healthy Funding

The county boasts a 91.2% graduation rate, significantly outperforming both the state and national averages. Spending per pupil is $9,736, which is over $700 more than the state average investment. This commitment to funding has helped secure a strong school score of 60.1.

Emporia District Leads the Region

The Emporia district is by far the largest, educating 4,349 students across 8 schools. Southern Lyon County and North Lyon County districts serve smaller populations of 570 and 340 students, respectively. No charter schools exist in the county, with all students enrolled in these three major districts.

A Mix of Town and Rural Campuses

The county is evenly split with 7 schools in town settings and 7 in rural areas. While the average school size is 376, Emporia High is quite large with 1,510 students. This diversity allows families to choose between a bustling town high school experience or a quieter rural elementary setting.

Invest in Your Child’s Future Success

With one of the highest school scores in the region and a 91.2% graduation rate, Lyon County is a premier destination for families. High per-pupil spending ensures that schools remain well-resourced for all students. Consider the diverse neighborhoods in Emporia or the surrounding rural areas for your next home.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lyon County

via RiskByCounty

Lyon faces moderate natural disaster risk

Lyon County's composite risk score of 47.65 places it in the Relatively Low category but exceeds the national average, indicating above-average exposure to multiple hazards. The county experiences more natural disaster threats than most American counties.

Above-average risk for Kansas

Lyon's score of 47.65 significantly exceeds Kansas's state average of 29.89, placing it in the upper tier of Kansas counties by hazard exposure. The county warrants comprehensive disaster preparedness planning.

Riskier than most western neighbors

Lyon's risk score substantially exceeds neighboring Lincoln County (13.52) and Logan County (7.38), though matches Labette County (66.19) and Leavenworth County (66.35) in eastern regions. Lyon emerges as a central Kansas hazard concentration zone.

Wildfire, tornado, and flood threats

Wildfire risk dominates Lyon County at 88.26, the second-highest in Kansas, paired with substantial tornado risk of 69.66 and flood risk of 49.30. This combination makes Lyon one of Kansas's most multi-hazard-exposed counties.

Secure comprehensive multi-hazard coverage

Lyon County residents must prioritize wildfire insurance, either through a rider or comprehensive policy, given the county's exceptionally high wildfire risk. Additionally, obtain flood coverage as a separate policy and verify tornado/wind damage protection in your homeowners insurance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lyon County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Kansas Climate in Central Lyon

Lyon County's 54.8°F average temperature is slightly higher than the national median. With 35.6 inches of rain, it is wetter than many other counties in the central U.S.

Average Temperature with Above-Average Rain

Lyon perfectly matches the 54.8°F Kansas state average temperature. However, it receives about 5 inches more precipitation than the typical Kansas county.

Milder Snowfall Than Western Kansas

Lyon experiences more snowfall than southern Labette but less than western Lane. It shares a similar extreme heat profile with Leavenworth, recording 46 days over 90°F.

Typical Plains Heat and Cold Januaries

Summers feature 46 days of heat over 90°F and a July average of 78.3°F. Winter brings a colder January average of 29.9°F and nearly 13 inches of snow.

Plan for Below-Freezing January Nights

Residents should prepare for moderate snow of 13 inches and consistent spring rain. Efficient heating is important as January averages stay below the freezing mark.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lyon County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Acidic Loams in Lyon

Lyon County features a soil pH of 6.17, which is more acidic than the state average of 6.80 and the national median of 6.5. This acidity is typical for the region and supports a variety of traditional Kansas agriculture. It provides a specialized environment that many native prairie plants find ideal.

High Clay for Maximum Retention

The soil is remarkably low in sand at only 11.3%, while silt makes up 56.7% and clay accounts for 30.0%. This high clay content gives the soil excellent structural strength and the ability to hold onto nutrients tightly. It can be quite heavy to dig, but it provides a very stable base for plant roots.

Superior Organic Matter and Moisture

Lyon County boasts a high organic matter content of 2.70%, well above the state average of 2.22%. It also features an available water capacity of 0.189 in/in, which exceeds the state benchmark of 0.180. These metrics indicate a very fertile soil that is highly resilient to dry spells.

Managing High-Retention Soils

With a strong overall soil score of 64.0, the land is generally very productive. The high clay and silt percentages mean that drainage may be slow, making it important to manage runoff during heavy rains. Proper soil management can prevent the compaction that often affects these dense, silty profiles.

Lush Growth in Zone 6b

Hardiness Zone 6b and rich, moisture-retentive soil make Lyon County an excellent place for a flourishing garden. You can successfully grow heavy-feeding crops like corn, tomatoes, and various peppers. Get started today and watch how the high organic matter transforms your home-grown harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lyon County

via LawnByCounty

Premier Lawn Conditions in Lyon

Lyon County holds an impressive difficulty score of 69.7, making it an ideal location for turf enthusiasts. This 6b hardiness zone offers a climate that is substantially more favorable than the national median score of 50.0.

Strong Precipitation and Manageable Heat

The county enjoys 35.6 inches of annual rainfall, placing it squarely in the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health. With 46 extreme heat days, Lyon County avoids the worst of the Kansas heat, allowing grass to stay active longer through the summer.

Heavy Clay Foundations

With a clay content of 30.0%, Lyon County soils have a high capacity for holding water and nutrients. The pH of 6.17 is excellent for turf, though the heavy clay means homeowners should prioritize fall aeration to prevent soil compaction.

Optimal Current Moisture Levels

Lyon County is currently 0% in drought, following only 9 weeks of drought conditions over the previous year. This consistent moisture profile makes it much easier to maintain a lush, green lawn compared to more arid western counties.

Ideal Timing for Lush Turf

Standard Kansas favorites like Tall Fescue will flourish here if planted after the April 15 frost. Homeowners have a long, productive season to establish their lawns before the first fall frost usually hits on October 23.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lyon County's county score?
Lyon County, Kansas has a composite county score of 39.6 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 Lyon County rank among counties in Kansas?
Lyon County ranks #88 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 Lyon County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Lyon County is $2,272, with an effective tax rate of 1.60%. This earns Lyon County a tax score of 9.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lyon County?
The median household income in Lyon County, Kansas is $59,078 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lyon County earns an income score of 36/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lyon County, Kansas a good place to live?
Lyon County scores 39.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #88 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Lyon 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 Lyon 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.