countyscore
53.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 84.5Income & Jobs 77.1

County Report Card

About Meade County, Kansas

Meade County Exceeds National Standards

Meade County earns an impressive 53.1 composite score, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a county that manages its environmental risks and local economy better than most across the country. It offers a high degree of stability for a rural area.

Above the Kansas Average

Meade County's score of 53.1 places it well ahead of the Kansas state average of 49.5. It stands out as a high-performing rural community within the state. This performance is driven by a combination of high incomes and low environmental risk.

Low Risk and High Economic Vitality

The county excels in safety and resilience, with a risk score of 84.5 and a safety score of 70.6. Economic health is also a major strength, as evidenced by a 77.1 income score and $74,868 median household income. Furthermore, its water quality score of 86.0 is among the highest in the state.

Health Outcomes and Tax Burdens

Community health is the primary area for improvement, with a score of 35.6. The tax score of 11.9 also highlights a significant tax burden, with an effective rate of 1.523%. Efforts to improve healthcare access could significantly boost the county's overall profile.

Best for Secure, High-Income Rural Living

Meade County is a top choice for those seeking a safe, low-risk environment with high earning potential. It provides a rare level of environmental security and water quality for the region. It is particularly well-suited for families who value safety and financial stability above all else.

Score breakdown

Tax11.9Cost61.1Safety70.6Health35.6Schools57.4Income77.1Risk84.5Water86Weather40.6
🏛11.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼77.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡70.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡84.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨37.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱45.5
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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Deep Dives

Meade County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Meade County

via TaxByCounty

Meade taxes slightly above national median

Meade County's effective tax rate of 1.523% exceeds the national median of 1.29%, placing it in the upper-middle range. The median property tax of $1,858 is about 31% lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting Kansas's lower home values.

Right at Kansas state average

Meade's 1.523% effective rate sits just below the Kansas state average of 1.549%, making it very typical statewide. The median tax of $1,858 is lower than the state median of $1,943 due to somewhat lower home values.

Mid-range taxes among nearby counties

Meade's 1.523% rate places it between the tax-friendly Marshall (1.280%) and the higher-taxed Marion (1.726%) and Mitchell (1.901%). Its median tax of $1,858 reflects balanced property values and rates across the region.

What Meade homeowners actually pay

The median Meade home valued at $122,000 results in roughly $1,858 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that climbs to $2,200; without one, it drops to $1,717.

You may be overassessed

Meade County homeowners should review their assessments against recent sales in their neighborhoods. Even small overvaluations can compound into significant overpayments across years of property ownership.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Meade County

via CostByCounty

Meade County matches national affordability standards

Meade County's 12.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, with median rent at $799 and household income at $74,868—nearly matching the national median of $74,755. This balance makes Meade an accessible option for renters and owners seeking affordability without extreme rural remoteness.

Meade County outperforms Kansas affordability average

At 12.8%, Meade County's rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.7%, placing it among Kansas's more affordable counties while maintaining reasonable income levels. The county achieves this balance through moderate housing costs and solid wage standards.

Meade sits in the regional middle ground

Meade County's $799 median rent falls between the cheapest options like Marshall ($670) and pricier McPherson ($889), positioning it as a moderate-cost alternative. Income levels here match the national average, making Meade appealing for those seeking balance over extremes.

Housing takes 12.8% of Meade County earnings

A typical Meade County household earning $74,868 annually spends $799 on rent monthly, while homeowners invest $766 into properties valued at $122,000. These aligned costs—rent and mortgage nearly identical—suggest healthy housing markets serving both renters and buyers equally.

Meade County offers balanced relocation value

Seeking a Kansas county that doesn't force you to choose between affordability and income? Meade County delivers equilibrium, with costs and wages both tracking close to national norms. Test Meade against Marshall's deeper savings or McPherson's higher earning potential to match your relocation priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Meade County

via IncomeByCounty

Meade County matches national income level

Meade County's median household income of $74,868 virtually matches the national median of $74,755, placing it exactly at the American economic midpoint. This alignment suggests Meade County residents enjoy typical American purchasing power and economic opportunity despite its rural southwest Kansas location.

Above-state-average earners in Meade

Meade County ranks in the upper half of Kansas counties with a $74,868 median household income, notably exceeding the state average of $64,428 by about $10,400. This $10,000+ advantage over Kansas's typical household demonstrates Meade's stronger economic foundation and employment opportunities.

Meade leads southwest Kansas earnings

Meade County's $74,868 income positions it above most neighboring counties, though slightly trailing McPherson County ($77,701) to the northeast. The county's strong per capita income of $44,359—the highest among these eight counties—suggests wealth is distributed broadly across the community rather than concentrated among few households.

Manageable housing costs in Meade

Meade County's 12.8% rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national 12% affordability threshold, indicating stable and affordable housing relative to earnings. A median home value of $122,000 combined with near-national-average income makes homeownership achievable for most families in the county.

Meade County opportunity for financial growth

At national-average income levels of $74,868, Meade County families have solid footing to pursue wealth-building strategies including retirement savings, real estate investment, and diversified stock portfolios. The county's moderate housing costs relative to income free up $6,000–$12,000 annually for households to direct toward long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Meade County

via CrimeByCounty

Meade County Boasts Elite Safety Stats

Meade County features one of the lowest total crime rates in the region at just 696.7 per 100,000 residents. This produces an elite safety score of 98.9, far surpassing the national total crime rate of 2,385.5. It is among the safest counties tracked in the state.

Leading the State in Public Safety

Meade County significantly outperforms the Kansas state average safety score of 98.0. With only two reporting agencies, the county maintains tight control over local safety trends. The total crime rate is nearly half of the state average of 1,282.2.

The Safest Choice Among Neighbors

Its crime rate is far lower than Mitchell County’s 789.1 and less than half of McPherson County's 1,203.2. Meade stands out as a regional leader in crime prevention and resident safety. It offers a much quieter environment than more populated neighbors.

Violent Crime is Rare in Meade

Violent crime is very rare here, occurring at a rate of 124.4 per 100,000. Property crime is also minimal at 572.3, which is a small fraction of the national average of 2,015.7. Residents enjoy a level of security that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Maintaining a Peaceable Community

Maintaining such high safety standards requires active community participation and home awareness. Even in very safe areas, basic security measures like smart locks help preserve the county's peaceful reputation. Visibility and neighborly communication are your best tools.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Meade County

via HealthByCounty

Meade lags far behind national health

Meade County's 74.1-year life expectancy falls 2.0 years short of the U.S. average of 76.1 years, a significant gap indicating serious health challenges. The 18.0% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national average of 17%, suggesting Meade's population bears a disproportionate disease burden.

Meade struggles in Kansas rankings

At 74.1 years, Meade County's life expectancy trails Kansas's 75.4-year state average by 1.3 years, ranking among the state's lowest-performing counties. The 16.1% uninsured rate tops the state average of 11.5%, meaning healthcare access challenges compound Meade's existing health disadvantages.

Meade faces steepest health crisis

Meade County's 74.1-year life expectancy and 18.0% poor/fair health rate represent the worst outcomes in this eight-county comparison. The 16.1% uninsured rate—the highest in the region—signals that Meade residents struggle to afford coverage and healthcare access.

Limited data on Meade's provider crisis

Specific data on primary care and mental health providers in Meade County is not currently available, but the county's high uninsured rate and poor health outcomes suggest significant provider shortages. With 16.1% lacking health insurance and limited visible provider infrastructure, Meade residents face formidable barriers to care.

Meade residents: get coverage now

If you're in Meade County, covering yourself is urgent—16.1% of neighbors lack insurance, the highest rate in the region. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to explore plans and financial assistance immediately.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Meade County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Rural Education in Meade

Meade County operates five public schools across two districts, serving a total student population of 568. The infrastructure includes three elementary schools and two high schools, catering to a entirely rural demographic. This small-scale system ensures every student is well-known by their teachers and peers.

Exceptional Investment in Every Student

The county invests $9,569 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the Kansas state average of $9,009. While the graduation rate of 86.9% is just under the state average of 88.7%, the overall school score of 57.4 remains above the state baseline. This indicates a high level of support and resources for the local student body.

Meade and Fowler Districts

The Meade district is the primary provider, enrolling 376 students across two schools. Fowler provides a highly intimate setting, managing two schools with a combined enrollment of only 70 students. No charter schools exist in the county, keeping all education within the traditional public framework.

Small Classes in a Rural Landscape

Every school in Meade County is classified as rural, creating a consistent and quiet learning environment. Meade Elementary is the largest campus with 284 students, while Fowler High is remarkably small with only 30 students. With an average school size of 114, education here is deeply personal.

A Close-Knit Community for Families

Buyers seeking a place where everyone knows their neighbor often choose Meade for its small-scale schools. The Fowler and Meade districts offer a unique alternative to larger, crowded school systems. Securing a home in this county guarantees an educational experience defined by high per-pupil funding and tiny class sizes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Meade County

via RiskByCounty

Meade County's low overall risk

Meade County scores just 15.55 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting well below Kansas's state average of 29.89. This places the county among the nation's safer communities for natural disaster exposure.

Kansas's safest county tier

Meade County ranks in the lowest-risk category across Kansas's 105 counties, reflecting minimal exposure to flooding and earthquakes. Its very low composite score reflects one of the state's most favorable risk profiles.

Safest in the southwest

Meade County's 15.55 score makes it the lowest-risk county in its southwestern Kansas region, well below statewide averages. Nearby counties experience notably higher composite risk despite sharing similar geographic characteristics.

Wildfire the primary concern

Wildfire risk stands at 87.63, the only substantially elevated hazard in Meade County and notably higher than other threats. Flood risk is minimal at 2.89, and tornado exposure at 32.89 remains well below state averages.

Wildfire insurance essential

Meade County residents should ensure homeowners policies include robust wildfire coverage and maintain defensible space around structures. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wildfire damage, but reviewing deductibles and coverage limits ensures adequate protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Meade County

via WeatherByCounty

Dry and Warm Semi-Arid Climate

Meade County averages 55.4°F annually, but its 23.0 inches of rain is well below the national median. This creates a drier, semi-arid environment typical of the High Plains.

One of the Driest Spots in Kansas

At 23.0 inches of annual rain, Meade is much drier than the 30.3-inch Kansas average. It experiences 83 days of extreme heat, nearly double the count of many eastern counties.

Intense Heat Compared to Eastern Peers

Meade's 83 days above 90°F dwarfs Miami County's 40 days. While temperature averages are similar, the lack of humidity and rain sets Meade apart from the rest of the state.

Extreme Heat and Surprising Snowfall

Summers are defined by 83 days of temperatures at or above 90°F. Despite the dry air, the county averages a significant 16.9 inches of snow during the winter months.

Plan for Arid Heat and Winter Storms

Water conservation and high-SPF sun protection are daily necessities during the long, hot summers. Do not underestimate the winter, as 16.9 inches of snow requires proper equipment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Meade County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils of the Plains

Meade County features a more alkaline soil profile with a pH of 7.41, exceeding the state average of 6.80. This chemistry is typical for the drier western region and may require specific management for acid-loving plants.

High Sand and Fast Movement

The composition is 42.9% sand and 36.6% silt, creating a relatively light and porous soil structure. With only 20.4% clay, water moves through these profiles quickly, allowing for excellent aeration of plant roots.

Challenging Water and Organic Levels

Organic matter is lower than average at 1.62%, compared to the state's 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.167 in/in also trails the state average, making irrigation a critical component of successful farming here.

Managing Rapid Infiltration

Specific drainage classes are not currently mapped, but the high sand content suggests rapid drainage and low risk of ponding. This makes the land very workable shortly after rain, though it dries out much faster than eastern soils.

Hardy Crops for Zone 6b

A soil score of 37.7 reflects the challenges of a semi-arid climate, but drought-tolerant crops still thrive. Focus on sorghum, millet, or native prairie gardens that are adapted to Meade's unique soil and 6b hardiness zone.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Meade County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions in Arid Meade County

Meade County presents a tough environment for lawns, with a difficulty score of 45.5, well below the national average of 50.0. High heat and low rainfall make this one of the more challenging areas in Kansas to maintain traditional green turf. Homeowners in this Zone 6b region must be strategic to overcome the harsh local climate.

Extreme Heat and Low Precipitation

Meade County endures a grueling 83 extreme heat days per year, far surpassing the state average of 58. Compounding this heat, the county receives only 23.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is 7 inches below the state average and under the ideal lawn range. The high 4,077 growing degree days further accelerate moisture loss from plants and soil.

Alkaline Soil and Sandy Texture

The soil pH in Meade County is 7.41, which is more alkaline than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for most turfgrasses. A high sand content of 42.9% means water drains away quickly, requiring more frequent irrigation to keep grass hydrated. Most lawns will benefit from sulfur applications to lower pH and organic matter to improve water retention.

Severe Dryness Demands Water Conservation

Currently, 78.4% of the county is abnormally dry, and residents dealt with 15 weeks of drought over the past year. In this climate, choosing drought-tolerant species and installing efficient drip or smart irrigation is not just an option, but a necessity. Xeriscaping or reducing lawn size are practical strategies for this water-stressed region.

Select Heat-Hardy Grass Species

Buffalograss and Blue Grama are the best bets for Meade County, as they thrive in dry conditions and alkaline soil. Wait until the final frost passes around April 20 to begin any major planting projects. While the 83 heat days are daunting, the right species choice can result in a beautiful, sustainable landscape.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Meade County's county score?
Meade County, Kansas has a composite county score of 53.1 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 Meade County rank among counties in Kansas?
Meade County ranks #43 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 Meade County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Meade County is $1,858, with an effective tax rate of 1.52%. This earns Meade County a tax score of 11.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Meade County?
The median household income in Meade County, Kansas is $74,868 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Meade County earns an income score of 77.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Meade County, Kansas a good place to live?
Meade County scores 53.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #43 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Meade 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 Meade County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.