countyscore
57.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 78.6Cost of Living 75.4Soil Quality 75.2

County Report Card

About Marshall County, Kansas

Marshall County Outperforms National Peers

With a composite score of 57.5, Marshall County significantly exceeds the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the top tier of counties nationwide for overall livability. It achieves this by balancing economic stability with high safety and environmental resilience.

A Top Performer in Kansas

Marshall County's 57.5 score stands well above the Kansas state average of 49.5. It serves as a model for regional success, offering higher incomes and better schools than many of its neighbors. This high ranking reflects a quality of life that is superior to the state norm.

Resilience and Economic Security

The county excels in disaster resilience with a risk score of 78.6 and maintains great affordability with a cost score of 75.4. Median household incomes are strong at $70,828, supporting a high income score of 68.4. Schools also show strength with a score of 67.2, providing a solid environment for families.

Fiscal and Infrastructure Headwinds

The tax score of 21.9 indicates a relatively high tax burden compared to national averages, though it remains more competitive than some neighbors. Water infrastructure is another area for improvement, currently scoring 23.3. Addressing these factors could further elevate the county's high standing.

The Perfect Balance for Rural Families

Marshall County is a premier choice for families looking for high-performing schools and economic stability without high costs. The combination of $670 median rent and strong local incomes creates an excellent path to financial freedom. It offers a rare mix of safety, wealth, and resilience.

2040608010021.975.456.661.167.268.478.623.345.5Tax21.9Cost75.4Safety56.6Health61.1Schools67.2Income68.4Risk78.6Water23.3Weather45.557.6/100
This county
National avg
5 above average3 below average

Marshall County DNA

Foverall

How Marshall County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Marshall County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (78.6/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (23.3/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
21.9-30.1
Cost
75.4+27.400000000000006
Safety
56.6
Health
61.1+11.100000000000001
Schools
67.2+13.200000000000003
Income
68.4+17.400000000000006
Risk
78.6+31.599999999999994
Water
23.3-34.7
Weather
45.5-10.5
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Think property taxes are too high in Marshall County?

Many homeowners in Marshall 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

$119,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$670/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$119,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$26,800/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $70,828/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

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Nearby counties

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62.5
Nemaha County
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Gage County
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Washington County
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Pottawatomie County
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Jefferson County
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Deep Dives

Marshall County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Marshall County

via TaxByCounty

Marshall taxes well below national rate

Marshall County's effective tax rate of 1.280% is among the lowest nationally, falling noticeably below the national median of 1.29%. The median property tax of $1,529 represents a 43% savings versus the national median of $2,690.

One of Kansas's most tax-friendly counties

Marshall County's 1.280% effective rate ranks among the lowest in Kansas, well below the state average of 1.549%. This advantage carries a median tax bill of just $1,529, nearly $400 less than the state median.

Lowest taxes in the regional cluster

At 1.280%, Marshall's rate is the cheapest among nearby counties including Marion (1.726%), Meade (1.523%), and Morris (1.547%). Homeowners here enjoy some of Kansas's most affordable property tax burdens.

What Marshall homeowners actually pay

The median Marshall home valued at $119,500 costs roughly $1,529 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $1,783; without one, closer to $1,394.

You may be overassessed

Even in tax-friendly Marshall County, overassessment happens—many homeowners nationwide discover their properties are valued higher than recent market sales justify. Filing an appeal could lower your annual bill even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marshall County

via CostByCounty

Marshall County ranks among America's most affordable

At just 11.3%, Marshall County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average, meaning renters here keep significantly more earnings in their pockets than most Americans. With a median rent of $670 per month and median household income of $70,828, the county offers genuine affordability without sacrificing community stability.

Marshall County is Kansas's affordability leader

Marshall County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio is the strongest among Kansas counties, substantially outpacing the state average of 14.7%. This top-tier affordability stems from low rents combined with above-state-average incomes, creating one of the best housing-cost equations in the state.

Marshall offers Kansas's cheapest regional rents

At $670 monthly, Marshall County's median rent undercuts all neighboring counties—Marion charges $727, Meade asks $799, and McPherson runs $889. If affordable rentals are your priority, Marshall County stands out as the regional bargain.

Housing costs take only 11.3% of income

A typical Marshall County household earning $70,828 annually spends just $670 on rent each month, leaving substantial income for savings and other expenses. Homeowners face slightly higher monthly costs at $758, but median home values of $119,500 remain remarkably accessible compared to national and state benchmarks.

Marshall County delivers Kansas's best rental value

Relocating to Marshall County means securing the state's lowest rent-to-income ratio while maintaining solid income levels—a rare combination in rural Kansas. Compare this advantage against neighboring Marion and McPherson counties if you're weighing multiple relocation options, but Marshall's numbers are genuinely hard to beat.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marshall County

via IncomeByCounty

Marshall County edges closer to national average

Marshall County's median household income of $70,828 sits just 5% below the national median of $74,755, making it one of Kansas's stronger-earning counties. This performance places Marshall County well above most of rural Kansas, suggesting robust local employment and economic opportunity compared to national peers.

Above-average earners within Kansas

Marshall County ranks in the upper third of Kansas counties with a $70,828 median household income, significantly outpacing the state average of $64,428 by nearly $6,400. This strong position reflects the county's economic health and suggests residents enjoy greater purchasing power than most Kansans.

Marshall leads neighboring county earnings

Marshall County's $70,828 income outpaces nearby Marion County ($63,438) and Mitchell County ($58,233), though it trails McPherson County ($77,701) to the south. The $7,000 advantage over Marion County reflects Marshall's stronger economic foundation and employment base in this north-central Kansas region.

Affordable housing supports financial stability

Marshall County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio sits below the national 12% affordability threshold, meaning renters here spend less on housing relative to earnings than the typical American household. Combined with a median home value of $119,500, the county offers genuine affordability for families seeking to build equity and stability.

Marshall County residents ready to invest

With median household income at $70,828 and housing costs well-managed, Marshall County families have real capacity to invest in their futures through employer 401(k)s, IRAs, and diversified portfolios. The county's affordability advantage means residents can direct $5,000–$10,000 annually toward wealth-building strategies without sacrificing basic financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marshall County

via CrimeByCounty

Marshall County Maintains Elite Safety Scores

Marshall County reports a total crime rate of 998.6 per 100,000 people, which is far below the national average of 2,385.5. The county achieves a high safety score of 98.4, reflecting its status as a secure community. It is significantly safer than the average American county.

Beating the Kansas State Safety Average

Its safety score of 98.4 beats the Kansas state average of 98.0. Local law enforcement across five reporting districts keep rates consistently below the state total average of 1,282.2. This performance places Marshall County in the upper tier of Kansas counties.

Safe Corridor in Northern Kansas

Marshall County’s crime rate of 998.6 is lower than neighboring Morris County’s rate of 1,429.9 per 100,000. It also outperforms McPherson County in total safety metrics. This makes it a standout for safety in the regional corridor.

Understanding Local Crime Statistics

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 209.7 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 788.9. These figures are significantly lower than national averages of 369.8 and 2,015.7, respectively. The data indicates a peaceful environment for both families and local businesses.

Vigilance Preserves Local Security

Residents help keep Marshall County safe by staying vigilant and using modern home monitoring systems. Simple preventative measures ensure that property crime rates stay well below the national mark. Community awareness remains the best defense against theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Marshall County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in a Focused System

Marshall County maintains a streamlined education system with nine public schools serving 1,710 students. The landscape consists of five elementary schools and four high schools managed by just two school districts. This structure ensures that every student has access to a primary and secondary path within their local community.

Marshall County Outperforms State Benchmarks

The county boasts an impressive 91.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding both the state average of 88.7% and the national rate of 87%. Academic quality is supported by a school score of 58.1, outperforming the Kansas state average of 57.2. Per-pupil expenditure is competitive at $8,858, nearly matching the state's average investment.

Marysville and Valley Heights Lead

The Marysville district is the county's largest, enrolling 816 students across two primary campuses. Valley Heights manages three schools with a total enrollment of 427 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, maintaining a traditional public school focus for all families.

A Traditional Town and Country Feel

Most students attend school in one of the seven rural locales, though two schools serve as town hubs. Marysville Elementary is the largest campus with 425 students, while Valley Heights Elementary in Waterville offers a smaller feel with just 129 students. The average school size across the county remains modest at 190 students.

Home Buying in a Top-Tier County

High graduation rates make Marysville and the surrounding rural areas attractive for families prioritizing academic success. Proximity to Marysville Elementary or Frankfort Elementary are frequent priorities for buyers entering this market. Exploring residential options here connects you to a community that clearly values education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marshall County

via RiskByCounty

Marshall County in national context

Marshall County's composite risk score of 21.41 earns a Very Low rating and sits well below Kansas's state average of 29.89. This places the county among the safer communities nationally for natural disaster exposure.

Among Kansas's safest counties

Marshall County ranks in the lower-risk tier across Kansas's 105 counties, offering below-average exposure to most hazard types. Its Very Low rating reflects relatively modest threats compared to state counterparts.

Safest in the neighborhood

Marshall County's 21.41 score makes it the lowest-risk county among its immediate neighbors, well below Marion (37.98) and McPherson (39.22). This comparative safety reflects lower tornado exposure despite similar wildfire risk.

Wildfire dominates local hazards

Wildfire risk soars to 81.23, the highest threat in Marshall County despite its overall low risk profile. Tornado exposure ranks second at 56.01, still elevated compared to national averages for severe weather.

Prioritize wildfire preparedness

Marshall County residents should maintain robust homeowners insurance covering wildfire damage and keep home perimeters clear of dead vegetation. Wildfire-specific riders and adequate wind/hail coverage provide the most relevant protection here.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Marshall County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance Struggles in Marshall County

Marshall County receives a Water Quality Grade of F after logging eight health violations in the past five years. The local violation rate stands at 100.4 per 100K people, which is notably lower than the statewide average of 313.4. Despite being better than the state benchmark, the repeat violations signal underlying infrastructure or source issues.

Local Watershed Health Metrics Remain Unavailable

The federal government has not yet published §303(d) impairment data for water bodies within Marshall County. Consequently, there is no official percentage of impaired water bodies to report for the current cycle. This lack of data highlights a gap in current watershed-level monitoring and reporting.

Limited Water Quality Monitoring Presence Found

Only one monitoring site is currently registered in the federal Water Quality Portal for Marshall County. This site has produced just 20 measurements over the last five years, focusing primarily on physical and nutrient characteristics. This sparse data footprint makes it difficult to detect long-term environmental trends.

Big Blue River Running Significantly Low

The Big Blue River at Marysville is currently discharging 113 cfs, a mere 11% of its long-term average. This gauge monitors a massive 4,777 square mile drainage area that is seeing extreme seasonal departures. Such low flow levels can impact both wildlife and the dilution of agricultural nutrients.

Proactive Steps for Marshall County Residents

With drinking water compliance at a Grade F, residents should prioritize checking annual water quality reports from their local utility. The very low flow in the Big Blue River suggests that surface water sources are under stress and may have higher mineral concentrations. Consider testing your water for nutrients like nitrates, especially during these low-flow periods.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marshall County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Northern Plains Conditions

At 53.5°F annually, Marshall County is slightly cooler than the national median. This northern location experiences a classic four-season climate with significant winter influence.

Below the Average Kansas Temperature

The county averages 53.5°F, making it cooler than the 54.8°F state average for Kansas. It is one of the more temperate northern counties, though it receives 33.1 inches of rain.

A Rainy Neighbor in the North

Marshall matches the 53.5°F average of Mitchell County to the west. However, it is significantly wetter, receiving 33.1 inches of annual precipitation compared to Mitchell's 27.2 inches.

Frigid Januaries and Notable Snow Totals

Winters are sharp, with January temperatures averaging 26.7°F and delivering 15.8 inches of snow. Summers are milder than southern peers, with only 46 days reaching 90°F.

Winterize for Significant Snow and Cold

Heavy winter coats and pipe insulation are essential for the sub-freezing January averages. Homeowners should also prepare for 46 days of summer heat exceeding 90°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marshall County

via SoilByCounty

Near-Perfect pH for Marshall Growers

Marshall County boasts a soil pH of 6.45, sitting almost exactly on the national median of 6.5. This balance ensures that essential nutrients remain chemically available for plant uptake throughout the growing season.

A Silty Foundation

The soil consists of 53.8% silt and 27.8% clay, offering a fine-textured medium for root development. With sand making up only 18.3%, the soil maintains a high capacity for holding both moisture and fertilizers.

Rich in Life and Water

The 2.85% organic matter content comfortably beats the state average of 2.22%, indicating high biological productivity. An available water capacity of 0.197 in/in is among the best in the state, shielding crops from immediate drought stress.

Navigating Moisture Infiltration

Data regarding specific drainage classes is currently limited, but the high water capacity suggests the ground stays moist longer than sandier neighboring regions. Gardeners should monitor for surface runoff during heavy Kansas thunderstorms.

Prime Potential in Zone 6a

With a top-tier soil score of 75.2, this is some of the most productive land in Kansas. Use the fertile conditions of Zone 6a to establish a high-yielding vegetable garden or a thriving fruit orchard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marshall County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growing in Northern Kansas

Marshall County posts a lawn difficulty score of 62.8, outperforming both the national average of 50.0 and the Kansas state average of 59.1. As a Zone 6a region, it faces slightly colder winters than its southern neighbors but remains a productive area for turf. Maintaining a lush yard here is less taxing than in many other parts of the Great Plains.

Mild Summers Support Consistent Growth

The county sees 46 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly lower than the state average of 58. With 33.1 inches of annual precipitation, lawns receive enough natural moisture to minimize heavy irrigation costs. The growing season typically spans from late April to mid-October, supported by 3,897 growing degree days.

Healthy pH Levels in Marshall Soil

Soil pH in the county averages 6.45, providing an excellent environment for grass roots to absorb essential minerals. The texture contains 27.8% clay and 18.3% sand, a mix that balances water retention with moderate structure. While drainage data is unavailable, the clay-heavy foundation suggests that core aeration will benefit most established lawns.

Managing the Mid-Year Dry Spells

Over the past year, Marshall County endured 28 weeks in drought conditions, requiring more vigilance from homeowners than the current 0% dry area suggests. Even during rainy months, monitoring soil moisture is critical due to this historical volatility. Utilizing rain barrels or smart controllers can help mitigate the impact of future dry periods.

Plan for a Mid-October Frost

Cool-season grasses like Fine Fescue and Perennial Ryegrass are well-suited for the 6a climate of Marshall County. Plan your spring projects for after April 25, or target the fall seeding window before the first frost arrives around October 13. Your local climate provides a solid foundation for a durable, resilient lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marshall County's county score?
Marshall County, Kansas has a composite county score of 57.6 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 Marshall County rank among counties in Kansas?
Marshall County ranks #22 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 Marshall County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Marshall County is $1,529, with an effective tax rate of 1.28%. This earns Marshall County a tax score of 21.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marshall County?
The median household income in Marshall County, Kansas is $70,828 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marshall County earns an income score of 68.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marshall County, Kansas a good place to live?
Marshall County scores 57.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Marshall 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 Marshall County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.