countyscore
49.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 81.3Health 71.5

County Report Card

About McPherson County, Kansas

McPherson County Matches the National Average

McPherson County earns a composite score of 49.6, placing it right at the heart of the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced American lifestyle where high incomes offset moderate cost pressures. This score suggests a stable and predictable quality of life for its residents.

An Average Representative of Kansas Life

Matching the state average of 49.5, McPherson County reflects the typical Kansas experience. It provides a reliable baseline for the state's economic and social metrics. While it doesn't lead the state, it avoids the pitfalls of the lowest-ranking regions.

High Incomes and Pristine Water

The county boasts a very high income score of 81.3, supported by a median household income of $77,701. Water quality is a standout feature with a score of 86.0, among the best in the region. Residents also benefit from strong health outcomes, which score a robust 71.5.

Housing Costs and Tax Pressure

Affordability is the primary challenge here, with a cost score of 34.8 reflecting a higher median home value of $198,400. The tax score of 17.2 also suggests a heavy fiscal burden on property owners. Additionally, safety scores sit slightly below the national average at 46.3.

A Haven for High Earners

McPherson County is ideal for established professionals who value high-quality water and health services. While housing is more expensive than in neighboring counties, the strong local economy supports these costs. It is a great fit for those prioritizing income potential and environmental quality.

Score breakdown

Tax17.2Cost34.8Safety46.3Health71.5Schools64Income81.3Risk60.8Water86Weather47.7
🏛17.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠34.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼81.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡46.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤71.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.5
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

Harvey County
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40.2
Saline County
Kansas
38.4
Rice County
Kansas
54.7
Ellsworth County
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Marion County
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Reno County
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Dickinson County
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Sedgwick County
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Deep Dives

McPherson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in McPherson County

via TaxByCounty

McPherson taxes in line with nation

McPherson County's effective tax rate of 1.401% sits just above the national median of 1.29%, placing it squarely in the middle nationally. The median tax of $2,780 slightly exceeds the national median of $2,690, thanks to higher home values in the county.

Slightly below Kansas state average

McPherson's 1.401% effective rate falls just below the Kansas state average of 1.549%, making it a fairly typical county. The median tax bill of $2,780 significantly exceeds the state median of $1,943 because McPherson homes are valued much higher.

Homes pricier, taxes middle-ground

McPherson's median home value of $198,400 is substantially higher than neighboring Marion ($114,400) and Marshall ($119,500), explaining why its tax bill of $2,780 is elevated despite a moderate rate. The 1.401% rate itself sits below Marion and Mitchell counties.

What McPherson homeowners actually pay

The median McPherson home valued at $198,400 generates approximately $2,780 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, homeowners pay $2,820; without one, about $2,712.

You may be overassessed

Higher-value properties attract greater assessment scrutiny, and McPherson homeowners should verify their assessments against recent comparable sales. A successful appeal on a $200,000 home could save hundreds per year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McPherson County

via CostByCounty

McPherson County balances higher incomes and costs

At 13.7%, McPherson County's rent-to-income ratio tracks just below the national norm, though housing itself costs more here—median rent stands at $889 versus the state average of $787. The county compensates with above-average household income of $77,701, $3,000 more than the national median, making higher costs manageable for most residents.

McPherson ranks mid-tier among Kansas counties

McPherson County's 13.7% rent-to-income ratio performs better than the state average of 14.7%, placing it solidly in the affordable range despite charging above-state-average rents. Higher incomes here offset premium housing prices, creating favorable affordability overall.

McPherson is the region's premium rental market

At $889 per month, McPherson County's median rent exceeds Marion ($727), Marshall ($670), and Meade ($799)—reflecting a more developed economy with higher service and job diversity. The trade-off: median household incomes here outpace neighbors, rewarding higher earners with quality services and amenities.

Housing consumes 13.7% of McPherson incomes

Renters in McPherson County earning $77,701 annually pay $889 monthly in gross rent, while homeowners invest $1,066 into ownership on median-valued properties of $198,400—the highest in this region. Despite these premium costs, the healthy income base keeps housing affordability in check across both renters and owners.

McPherson offers Kansas's highest earning potential

If career advancement and higher incomes matter more than minimum housing costs, McPherson County delivers—residents earn $77,701 on average, well above neighboring counties. Compare McPherson's higher wages and diverse job market against Marshall's rental bargains to find your relocation balance.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McPherson County

via IncomeByCounty

McPherson County exceeds national income benchmark

McPherson County's median household income of $77,701 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by about 4%, placing it firmly in the upper tier of American counties. This achievement demonstrates strong local economic fundamentals and positions McPherson residents above the typical American household in earnings power.

Kansas's top earners live here

McPherson County ranks among Kansas's highest-earning counties with a $77,701 median household income, exceeding the state average of $64,428 by more than $13,000. This substantial advantage reflects McPherson's diversified economy and draws households seeking above-average wages within Kansas.

McPherson leads regional income competition

McPherson County's $77,701 income substantially outpaces Marion County ($63,438), Marshall County ($70,828), and Morris County ($56,716) in the surrounding region. The county's $7,000+ advantage over Marshall County—already a strong earner—underscores McPherson's position as the economic engine of central Kansas.

Higher incomes offset rising home values

McPherson County's 13.7% rent-to-income ratio sits modestly above the national 12% threshold, reflecting higher median home values of $198,400 compared to neighbors. However, the county's above-national-average income provides households greater purchasing power and equity-building potential despite the price premium.

McPherson County positioned for wealth creation

With $77,701 median household income and strong local employment, McPherson County families can aggressively fund retirement accounts, build investment portfolios, and diversify assets beyond primary residences. The county's income level supports mortgage payments on premium homes while still preserving $8,000–$15,000 annually for wealth-building investments.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McPherson County

via CrimeByCounty

McPherson County Halves the National Rate

McPherson County maintains a crime rate of 1,203.2 per 100,000, roughly half the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 98.1 indicates a high level of security for its residents. The county continues to be a safe harbor compared to national trends.

A Consistent Standard of Kansas Safety

The county's safety score stays just above the state average of 98.0. Eight reporting agencies work together to keep the total crime rate below the Kansas average of 1,282.2. This collaborative effort ensures consistent public safety across the jurisdiction.

Comparing Safety Across Central Kansas

McPherson sees lower crime than Montgomery County but slightly more than neighboring Marion County. It remains one of the safer hubs in central Kansas for those prioritizing low crime rates. Local law enforcement keeps the community more secure than the state average.

Property Crime Outweighs Violent Offenses

Property crime sits at 1,033.7 per 100,000, while violent crime is remarkably low at 169.5. This violent crime rate is less than half the national average of 369.8, highlighting a very safe social climate. Residents are statistically less likely to face violent encounters here.

Securing Your McPherson Home

While McPherson is statistically very safe, home security systems can deter the property crimes that make up the bulk of local incidents. Community awareness and smart lighting are effective ways to protect your property. Keeping doors locked remains a simple but vital habit.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in McPherson County

via HealthByCounty

McPherson leads on life expectancy

McPherson County's 77.6-year life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.1 years by 1.5 years, placing it among America's healthier communities. With just 14.0% reporting poor or fair health—well below the national 17%—McPherson residents demonstrate strong overall wellness.

Kansas's healthiest county tier

McPherson County's 77.6-year life expectancy ranks among Kansas's top counties, outpacing the state average of 75.4 years by 2.2 years. The 9.6% uninsured rate is the lowest among the eight counties reviewed, reflecting McPherson's economic stability and healthcare engagement.

McPherson excels in every measure

McPherson's 77.6-year life expectancy and 14.0% poor/fair health rate best its nearby peers; Marshall County ties the life expectancy but has a slightly higher health burden at 16.1%. McPherson's 70 primary care providers and 110 mental health providers per 100K are among the region's highest densities.

Excellent coverage and provider access

McPherson County's 9.6% uninsured rate is the lowest in this eight-county cohort, meaning 90% of residents have active health coverage. With 70 primary care providers per 100K and 110 mental health specialists per 100K, residents benefit from abundant healthcare options without traveling long distances.

McPherson's coverage is nearly universal

If you're among McPherson's small 9.6% uninsured population, visit healthcare.gov to close the coverage gap. Maintaining continuous insurance keeps you connected to McPherson's strong healthcare network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in McPherson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust and Diverse Educational Hub

McPherson County features a significant educational footprint with 18 public schools serving 4,794 students. Five districts manage this infrastructure, which includes nine elementary, three middle, and five high schools. This variety provides families with multiple specialized paths, including one charter school option.

Strong Graduation Rates and Solid Investment

The county maintains a 89.9% graduation rate, beating both the Kansas average of 88.7% and the national average of 87%. Investment in students is high, with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,152 that exceeds the state average of $9,009. The local school score of 58.1 reflects a commitment to academic excellence.

McPherson District Sets the Pace

The McPherson district is the largest, supporting 2,270 students across six schools. Smoky Valley provides a secondary hub with 1,103 students and hosts the Smoky Valley Virtual Charter School, which enrolls 283 students. Moundridge also plays a vital role, managing three schools and 497 students.

Town Centers and Academic Diversity

Schools are split between 10 town-based campuses and eight rural locations, offering a blend of environments. McPherson High is the largest school with 709 students, while Soderstrom Elementary maintains a mid-sized feel with 321 students. The average school size of 266 students is higher than neighboring rural counties, reflecting its vibrant town centers.

Finding Your Neighborhood in McPherson

Prospective homeowners often look to the McPherson or Smoky Valley districts for their proven track records and extracurricular depth. High-performing schools and diverse campus options make this county a premier choice for growing families. Investing in a home here means joining a community that prioritizes per-pupil funding and high graduation standards.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McPherson County

via RiskByCounty

McPherson County's disaster risk

McPherson County scores 39.22 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating while exceeding Kansas's state average of 29.89. This moderate exposure places the county in a manageable risk tier nationally.

Above-average risk for Kansas

McPherson County ranks above the state median among Kansas's 105 counties, reflecting notably higher tornado exposure than most of its peers. Its Very Low rating still indicates manageable overall hazard exposure statewide.

Highest-risk neighbor in cluster

McPherson County's 39.22 score edges out Marion County (37.98) and far exceeds Marshall County (21.41) in the immediate neighborhood. Its elevated tornado risk (77.10) significantly outpaces both neighbors' storm exposure.

Tornado threat leads all hazards

Tornadoes rank as the dominant natural disaster risk here with a score of 77.10, among the highest in the state. Wildfire exposure follows at 67.37, presenting a secondary but significant threat.

Strong tornado safety measures

McPherson County residents must prioritize access to a safe room or storm shelter and ensure homeowners insurance covers wind and hail damage. A comprehensive policy addressing both tornado and wildfire exposure provides the best protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in McPherson County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Central Hub Exceeds National Median

McPherson County's 55.7°F average temperature is roughly two degrees warmer than the U.S. median. The region is characterized by hot summers and a high number of extreme heat days.

Beating the Kansas State Temperature Average

The county tracks about one degree warmer than the 54.8°F Kansas average. While its 32.4 inches of rain is typical for the state, its summer heat is more intense.

Hotter Summers than Neighboring Marion

McPherson averages 64 days above 90°F, significantly outpacing Marion County's 55 days. Its annual precipitation of 32.4 inches is slightly lower than Marion's 34.6 inches.

Steamy Summers and Moderate Snowfall

July is the peak of the heat with an 80.6°F average, contributing to 64 extreme heat days. Winters bring an average of 12.8 inches of snow and a 30.7°F January.

Prepare for Extended Summer Heat

Reliable air conditioning is vital for the 64 days of extreme heat each summer. Residents should also keep snow shovels ready for the 12.8-inch annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McPherson County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic McPherson Soils

The average soil pH here is 6.37, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.80. This level is still very productive and supports the healthy growth of most Midwestern grain and forage crops.

Coarser Texture for Better Workability

With 32.4% sand and 44.7% silt, these soils are coarser than many eastern Kansas counties. The 22.9% clay content is relatively low, which typically makes the soil easier to till and less prone to heavy clodding.

Solid Organic Foundations

The organic matter content stands at 2.31%, which is just above the Kansas average of 2.22%. However, the available water capacity of 0.175 in/in is slightly below the state average, meaning moisture management is key during the summer.

Flexible Drainage Opportunities

While taxonomic data is unavailable, the higher sand percentage likely leads to faster drainage than in heavier clay districts. This makes the county well-suited for diverse building projects and varied agricultural uses.

Abundant Growth in Zone 6b

McPherson County maintains a strong soil score of 61.1, indicating reliable growing potential. This Zone 6b climate is perfect for sunflowers and corn, especially when supplemented with organic mulches to retain moisture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McPherson County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Central Kansas Heat Challenges

McPherson County earns a 63.5 lawn difficulty score, indicating it is easier to maintain a yard here than the national median. While the score is higher than the state average of 59.1, the 6b hardiness zone brings significant summer temperature swings. Success depends on balancing the high heat with the county's decent precipitation levels.

High Heat Days Require Smart Watering

Lawns in McPherson face 64 extreme heat days annually, exceeding the state average of 58. Annual precipitation of 32.4 inches helps offset this heat, but 4,256 growing degree days mean grass grows rapidly and needs frequent mowing. Watch for the last spring frost around April 18 to start your seasonal maintenance.

Balanced Texture Aids Soil Drainage

The soil here features a pH of 6.37 and a relatively high sand content of 32.4%, which promotes better drainage than many other Kansas counties. With 22.9% clay, the soil still retains enough moisture to support turf through hot afternoons. This balanced mix reduces the risk of waterlogged roots during heavy spring rains.

Short Drought Windows Offer Relief

The county spent 11 weeks in drought over the past year, and current data shows 0% of the area is abnormally dry. This relatively stable moisture profile is a major asset for local gardeners compared to more arid western regions. Maintaining a taller mowing height during the 64 heat days will further protect the soil from drying out.

Optimal Timing for Zone 6b Grasses

Bermudagrass and heat-tolerant Fescue blends are excellent choices to handle the 64 days of 90°F+ temperatures. Schedule your seeding after the April 18 frost or wait until the cooling temperatures of late September. With 32.4 inches of rain, your lawn has a strong chance of thrive with minimal intervention.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McPherson County's county score?
McPherson County, Kansas has a composite county score of 49.6 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 McPherson County rank among counties in Kansas?
McPherson County ranks #60 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 McPherson County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in McPherson County is $2,780, with an effective tax rate of 1.40%. This earns McPherson County a tax score of 17.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McPherson County?
The median household income in McPherson County, Kansas is $77,701 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McPherson County earns an income score of 81.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is McPherson County, Kansas a good place to live?
McPherson County scores 49.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #60 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate McPherson 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 McPherson 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.