countyscore
44.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.8Health 78.7Lawn Care 71.3

County Report Card

About Miami County, Kansas

Miami County Trails the National Median

Miami County carries a composite score of 44.4, which is lower than the national median of 50.0. This ranking is primarily due to high housing costs and infrastructure challenges that outweigh its economic strengths. It represents a more expensive segment of the American landscape.

Trailing Behind the Kansas Average

At 44.4, Miami County sits below the state average of 49.5. While it leads the state in certain economic categories, the high cost of living pulls its overall ranking down compared to more affordable peers. It faces unique challenges as it balances growth with affordability.

Exceptional Income and Health Stats

Miami County is an economic powerhouse with an income score of 90.8 and a median household income of $88,000. It also provides excellent health outcomes, scoring 78.7 in the health dimension. These metrics suggest a highly prosperous and physically healthy population.

Steep Housing Costs and School Rankings

Housing affordability is a major hurdle, with a cost score of 15.4 and median home values reaching $277,700. The school score of 41.3 and water score of 25.1 also suggest areas where public investment is needed. High taxes further impact the overall livability for budget-conscious residents.

A Destination for Wealthy Professionals

This county is best suited for high-earning professionals who can navigate its high housing costs and tax rates. The trade-off for expensive living is access to one of the most prosperous and healthy communities in Kansas. It is the premier choice for those prioritizing income and personal health over low costs.

Score breakdown

Tax24.2Cost15.4Safety52.7Health78.7Schools41.3Income90.8Risk57Water25.1Weather53.3
🏛24.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡52.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤78.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤53.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71.3
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

Miami County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Miami County

via TaxByCounty

Miami taxes below national rate

Miami County's effective tax rate of 1.226% falls well below the national median of 1.29%, making it a tax bargain nationally. The median property tax of $3,406 exceeds the national median of $2,690 because Miami homes are valued much higher—reflecting proximity to the Kansas City metro.

Lowest rate among all Kansas counties

Miami's 1.226% effective rate is one of the lowest in Kansas, significantly below the state average of 1.549%. Despite a low rate, the median tax of $3,406 substantially exceeds the state median of $1,943 due to Miami's higher home values near the metro area.

Lowest rate, highest home values

Miami's 1.226% rate beats nearby Marshall (1.280%), Morris (1.547%), and all other regional neighbors, but its median home value of $277,700 is far higher. The result: Miami has the lowest rate but one of the highest actual tax bills in the region.

What Miami homeowners actually pay

The median Miami home valued at $277,700 generates approximately $3,406 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $3,498; without one, closer to $3,248.

You may be overassessed

Miami County's higher-value homes can sometimes be assessed above market rates, especially in fast-changing neighborhoods near Kansas City. Homeowners should compare their assessments to recent comparable sales and file appeals if valuations appear inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Miami County

via CostByCounty

Miami County's housing costs stretch affordability

At 15.0%, Miami County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, signaling housing costs that demand a larger income share than most Americans experience. Median rent of $1,101 and homeownership costs of $1,438 reflect a developed county where median household income of $88,000 works hard—though it does substantially exceed the national median.

Miami County is Kansas's most expensive market

Miami County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio matches the state average but supports the highest median home value in this survey at $277,700, placing it as Kansas's premium housing market. Renters and owners here pay the region's top dollar, though incomes are correspondingly strong.

Miami dominates the region's housing prices

Miami County's $1,101 median rent far exceeds all neighbors—McPherson charges $889, Meade $799, and Marion $727—reflecting Miami's position as the region's most developed economy. Median home values of $277,700 more than double most neighboring counties, indicating a distinct market tier.

Housing consumes 15% of Miami County incomes

Renters earning Miami County's $88,000 median household income spend $1,101 monthly on rent, while homeowners invest $1,438 on median properties valued at $277,700. These premium costs demand the region's highest incomes, leaving less cushion than lower-cost counties for savings and emergency expenses.

Miami County: highest costs, highest earning potential

Miami County delivers Kansas's strongest household incomes at $88,000, but demands the highest housing costs in return—rent at $1,101 and homes valued near $278,000. If your relocation prioritizes maximum earning potential over minimum costs, Miami County rewards it; otherwise, Marshall or Meade offer superior affordability-to-income ratios.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Miami County

via IncomeByCounty

Miami County leads Kansas in household earnings

Miami County's median household income of $88,000 substantially exceeds the national median of $74,755 by about 18%, making it one of Kansas's wealthiest counties by this measure. This significant advantage reflects Miami's proximity to metropolitan areas and its strong employment base relative to rural Kansas peers.

Kansas's elite earners concentrate here

Miami County ranks at the top of Kansas counties with a $88,000 median household income, surpassing the state average of $64,428 by nearly $24,000. This exceptional advantage positions Miami County as the economic leader among Kansas communities, with households earning substantially more than typical Kansans.

Miami dominates regional income hierarchy

Miami County's $88,000 income substantially exceeds all comparison counties, outpacing McPherson County ($77,701) by over $10,000 and Marshall County ($70,828) by more than $17,000. This commanding lead reflects Miami County's unique economic advantages and attraction as a higher-income enclave within Kansas.

Higher income supports premium housing costs

Miami County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio sits above the national threshold, reflecting a median home value of $277,700—substantially higher than all neighboring counties. However, the county's above-national-average income of $88,000 provides sufficient purchasing power to support both premium housing and robust wealth accumulation.

Miami County families build substantial wealth

With median household income at $88,000, Miami County residents rank among Kansas's highest earners and can pursue sophisticated wealth strategies: maxing retirement contributions, building real estate portfolios, and diversifying investments across equities and alternatives. The county's strong income base supports $15,000–$25,000 annual wealth-building capacity even after supporting premium housing costs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Miami County

via CrimeByCounty

Miami County: Safer Than the Average

Miami County features a total crime rate of 1,063.8 per 100,000, well below the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 98.3 reflects a very secure environment compared to the rest of the country. It is a preferred destination for safety-conscious families.

Above the Kansas Safety Standard

The county sits above the Kansas state average safety score of 98.0. Four local agencies report crime data that is consistently lower than the state total average of 1,282.2 per 100,000. This data confirms Miami County's role as a regional safety leader.

Regional Comparisons Favor Miami County

Miami County is significantly safer than Montgomery County, which has nearly triple the total crime rate. It shares similar safety profiles with other high-performing rural and suburban Kansas counties. Residents benefit from a consistently low crime landscape.

Low Risk for Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime accounts for only 201.1 incidents per 100,000 people, much lower than the national figure of 369.8. Property crime also remains low at 862.7, which means residents are much less likely to experience theft here. Total crime is less than half the national average.

Proactive Protection in Miami County

Property crime is the primary concern for most homeowners, so visible security cameras can be a great deterrent. Staying informed about local trends helps keep Miami County’s safety score in the top tier. Simple home habits contribute to a more secure community for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Miami County

via HealthByCounty

Miami leads the nation in longevity

Miami County's 77.1-year life expectancy beats the U.S. average of 76.1 years by a full year, representing one of America's healthiest county profiles. Just 12.0% report poor or fair health—well below the national 17%—reflecting Miami's strong population health outcomes.

Miami excels statewide on health

Miami County's 77.1-year life expectancy surpasses Kansas's 75.4-year state average by 1.7 years, placing it among the state's top-tier counties. The 7.6% uninsured rate is the second-lowest in Kansas, indicating robust health insurance coverage among Miami residents.

Miami rivals McPherson's strong health

Miami County's 77.1-year life expectancy matches McPherson County's performance, while Miami's 12.0% poor/fair health rate is the lowest of all eight counties. Miami's 58 primary care providers per 100K is strong, though McPherson's 70 and Mitchell's 104 slightly exceed it; Miami's 167 mental health providers per 100K lead the entire cohort.

Best coverage, excellent mental health care

Miami County's 7.6% uninsured rate is the lowest in this eight-county group, ensuring nearly universal healthcare access. With 58 primary care providers and an exceptional 167 mental health providers per 100K, Miami residents enjoy abundant options for both physical and behavioral health.

Miami's coverage is nearly universal

If you're among Miami's small 7.6% uninsured population, visit healthcare.gov to find affordable coverage. Miami's exceptional mental health provider network means insurance connects you quickly to behavioral health services when needed.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Miami County

via SchoolsByCounty

Growing Systems in a Town Setting

Miami County supports a large student population of 6,703 across 17 public schools. The county is divided into three districts, featuring seven elementary, four middle, and six high schools. This layout reflects the county's role as a growing residential hub with significant educational infrastructure.

Navigating Challenges in Graduation Rates

The county's graduation rate currently stands at 79.9%, which is lower than the state average of 88.7% and the national 87% benchmark. Spending per pupil is $8,552, trailing the state average of $9,009. These figures contribute to a composite school score of 51.6, highlighting areas for potential growth.

Large Districts and Virtual Options

Louisburg is the largest district with 1,802 students, followed closely by Paola with 1,776 students. The county hosts the Insight School of Kansas, a charter school that enrolls 1,035 students, representing roughly 6% of the county's schools. Osawatomie also serves a significant population with 1,063 students.

Vibrant Towns and High Enrollment

Most education occurs in town settings, with 15 schools classified as town-based and only two as rural. Schools here are larger than average for the region at 394 students per campus. The Insight School of Kansas and Louisburg High are major landmarks, with 1,035 and 562 students respectively.

Home Buying in Expanding Districts

Families often look at the Louisburg and Paola districts for their comprehensive high school programs and town amenities. As the county grows, these schools serve as central anchors for local neighborhoods and property values. Choosing a home near these campuses offers a blend of suburban convenience and Kansas tradition.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Miami County

via RiskByCounty

Miami County's elevated risk profile

Miami County scores 43.07 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating and exceeding Kansas's state average of 29.89 by 44%. This places the county in a higher-risk tier compared to most Kansas communities.

Higher-risk among Kansas counties

Miami County ranks above the state median among Kansas's 105 counties, driven primarily by elevated flood and tornado risk. Its Relatively Low rating indicates meaningful exposure to multiple hazard types statewide.

Riskiest county in cluster

Miami County's 43.07 score significantly exceeds neighboring Marshall (21.41) and Marion (37.98) counties. Its elevated flood risk (46.85) stands out as uniquely high compared to surrounding communities.

Flood and tornado dominance

Flooding emerges as the leading risk with a score of 46.85, considerably higher than most neighboring counties and reflecting local drainage challenges. Tornado exposure ranks second at 67.11, representing a secondary but substantial threat.

Flood insurance is critical

Miami County residents in flood-prone areas must purchase separate flood insurance, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Comprehensive coverage addressing both flood and tornado risk provides essential protection for this county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Miami County

via WeatherByCounty

A Moist and Temperate Eastern Region

Miami County's 54.9°F average temperature sits right at the national median. However, its 40.1 inches of annual rain makes it much wetter than most of the country.

Exceeding the State Precipitation Average

Miami is one of Kansas's wettest counties, receiving 40.1 inches of rain compared to the 30.3-inch state average. Its temperature of 54.9°F perfectly matches the statewide mean.

Wetter and Milder than Northern Counties

With only 8.4 inches of snow, Miami has much easier winters than Marshall County's 15.8 inches. It also receives nearly 13 more inches of rain than Mitchell County.

Rainy Summers and Light Winters

The county experiences only 40 days above 90°F, one of the lower counts in the region. Winters are relatively dry regarding snow, with only 8.4 inches falling annually.

Focus on Moisture and Humidity Control

Effective gutter systems and basement waterproofing are essential for the 40.1-inch annual rainfall. Summer gear should focus on humidity management rather than just extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Miami County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profiles in Miami County

Soil pH in Miami County averages 6.22, falling below both the state average of 6.80 and the national median. While slightly acidic, this range is excellent for many berries and hardwoods that struggle in more alkaline soils.

Fine-Grained and Silty Content

The soil is remarkably fine, consisting of 60.3% silt and 27.4% clay, with a minimal 11.2% sand fraction. This high-silt profile creates a smooth, floury texture that is highly fertile but susceptible to erosion if left uncovered.

Impressive Organic Reserves

Organic matter content is high at 2.98%, well above the Kansas average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.187 in/in ensures that the soil can hold significant moisture for crops during the peak of summer.

Monitoring Slow Water Release

While specific hydrologic data is not available, the low sand percentage indicates that this soil holds water very effectively. Gardeners should ensure proper site grading to avoid long periods of standing water in the heavy silt-clay mix.

Rich Gardening in Zone 6b

With a strong soil score of 66.0, Miami County offers great potential for diverse agriculture. This Zone 6b region is particularly well-suited for lush vegetable gardens and ornamental landscaping that thrives in organic-rich ground.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Miami County

via LawnByCounty

Kansas's Premier Lawn Growing Environment

Miami County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 71.3, the highest in this group and well above the state average of 59.1. Its position in Zone 6b combined with favorable weather makes it an ideal location for lush, healthy turf. Homeowners here find lawn maintenance significantly easier than the national average of 50.0.

Abundant Rain and Fewer Heat Waves

The county receives a generous 40.1 inches of annual precipitation, comfortably hitting the sweet spot for lawn health. Miami County also experiences only 40 extreme heat days per year, nearly 20 days fewer than the Kansas average. This combination of high moisture and moderate heat creates a long, productive growing season.

Nutrient-Rich Soil with Heavy Clay

The soil pH of 6.22 is nearly perfect for turfgrass, ensuring that fertilizers and natural nutrients are easily absorbed. While the 27.4% clay content helps retain that 40.1 inches of rain, the low 11.2% sand content means the soil can become heavy and slow to drain. Regular aeration is recommended to ensure oxygen reaches the root zones.

Managing Occasional Dry Periods

Despite having 18 weeks in drought over the last year, 39.1% of the county currently remains abnormally dry. The high annual rainfall usually compensates for these spells, but supplemental watering may be needed during the peak of summer. Using mulch in garden beds helps preserve the moisture provided by the county's frequent rains.

Prime Timing for Lush Lawns

Zoysia and Tall Fescue perform exceptionally well in Miami County's climate and soil. You can start your lawn journey early after the April 13 spring frost, or take advantage of the long fall season starting in late October. With such high scores, your biggest task will likely be keeping up with the vigorous mowing schedule.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Miami County's county score?
Miami County, Kansas has a composite county score of 44.4 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 Miami County rank among counties in Kansas?
Miami County ranks #73 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 Miami County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Miami County is $3,406, with an effective tax rate of 1.23%. This earns Miami County a tax score of 24.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Miami County?
The median household income in Miami County, Kansas is $88,000 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Miami County earns an income score of 90.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Miami County, Kansas a good place to live?
Miami County scores 44.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #73 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Miami 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 Miami 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.