countyscore
51.3
County Score
Water Quality 86Soil Quality 78.7Schools 78.6

County Report Card

About Morris County, Kansas

Morris County Surpasses the National Median

Morris County achieves a composite score of 51.3, placing it slightly above the national median of 50.0. This suggests a balanced lifestyle with notable strengths in public services and environmental quality. It offers a competitive quality of life compared to the rest of the country.

Outperforming the State Average

With a score of 51.3, Morris County sits above the Kansas average of 49.5. This solid performance indicates that it is one of the more desirable rural counties in the state. It provides residents with a better-than-average Kansas experience across most metrics.

High-Quality Schools and Pristine Water

The county's water score of 86.0 and school score of 78.6 are major assets for the local community. It also manages natural disasters well, as shown by a strong risk score of 72.6. Housing remains very affordable with a cost score of 68.0 and median rent of $711.

Income Potential and Tax Pressures

The county's income score of 29.6 is relatively low, reflecting a median household income of $56,716. Property taxes also take a bite out of residents' pockets, with a low tax score of 11.0. Safety scores also present an opportunity for improvement, currently sitting at 37.8.

A Top Choice for School-Aged Families

Morris County is a fantastic option for families who want high-quality education and clean water at a low price point. While incomes are lower than some neighbors, the low cost of living helps bridge the gap. It is a great fit for those looking for a stable, high-service rural environment.

Score breakdown

Tax11Cost68Safety37.8Health54.3Schools78.6Income29.6Risk72.6Water86Weather52
🏛11
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡37.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤54.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓78.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡72.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨78.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱70.8
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

Geary County
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26.3
Wabaunsee County
Kansas
52.3
Dickinson County
Kansas
47.7
Chase County
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Marion County
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Lyon County
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Riley County
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Pottawatomie County
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Deep Dives

Morris County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Morris County

via TaxByCounty

Morris taxes slightly above national median

Morris County's effective tax rate of 1.547% exceeds the national median of 1.29%, placing it in the upper-middle range nationally. The median property tax of $1,870 is about 30% lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting Kansas's lower home values overall.

Right at Kansas state average

Morris's 1.547% effective rate sits just slightly below the Kansas state average of 1.549%, making it extremely typical statewide. The median tax of $1,870 is slightly below the state median of $1,943 due to somewhat lower property values.

Mid-range taxes among nearby counties

Morris's 1.547% 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 $1,870 represents a balanced property tax burden for the region.

What Morris homeowners actually pay

The median Morris home valued at $120,900 generates roughly $1,870 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that rises to $2,142; without one, it drops to $1,707.

You may be overassessed

Morris County homeowners should verify assessments match recent comparable sales in their area. Even modest overvaluations compound into thousands in overpayment over a homeownership lifetime—appeals are worth exploring.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Morris County

via CostByCounty

Morris County renters face above-average burden

At 15.0%, Morris County's rent-to-income ratio matches Miami County's and exceeds the national average, signaling housing costs that demand a significant income share. Median household income of $56,716 falls well below the national median of $74,755, creating affordability pressure despite modest rent of $711.

Morris County ranks below Kansas affordability

Morris County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 14.7%, placing it among Kansas's least affordable counties despite the lowest incomes in this survey. The county struggles to balance low earning potential with even modest housing costs.

Morris faces rural Kansas affordability challenges

Morris County's $711 median rent falls in the middle of regional options, but its $56,716 median income ranks among the lowest alongside Montgomery ($53,242), creating above-average rent burden. Compared to better-earning neighbors like Marshall and McPherson, Morris residents face tighter housing-cost squeeze.

Housing claims 15% of Morris County incomes

A typical Morris County household earning $56,716 annually spends $711 monthly on rent, or about 15% of gross income—above-average burden for a lower-income community. Homeowners invest $825 monthly on median-valued properties of $120,900, a manageable figure offset by reduced renter affordability.

Morris County requires strong job prospects

Morris County's below-average incomes combined with above-average rent ratios make it a relocation risk unless your new employment significantly exceeds current county wage levels. Consider Marshall County's superior affordability or McPherson's higher earning potential before committing to Morris.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Morris County

via IncomeByCounty

Morris County substantially trails national average

Morris County's median household income of $56,716 falls well below the national median of $74,755 by about 24%, positioning it among lower-income American counties. This substantial gap reflects Morris County's rural economy and employment limitations compared to national benchmarks.

Below-average earners in Morris County

Morris County ranks in the lower half of Kansas counties with a $56,716 median household income, trailing the state average of $64,428 by approximately $7,700. This below-state-average position indicates Morris faces economic challenges relative to most other Kansas communities.

Morris ranks among lower-earning neighbors

Morris County's $56,716 income trails Marion County ($63,438) and Marshall County ($70,828), matching only Montgomery County ($53,242) among the comparison group. The nearly $7,000 gap versus Marion County reflects Morris's weaker employment base and economic opportunities within the region.

Housing costs burden Morris households

Morris County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national 12% affordability threshold, meaning renters spend a substantially higher share of lower earnings on housing than typical Americans. The median home value of $120,900 represents a challenging price point for households earning $56,716 annually.

Morris County: modest wealth-building strategies

With median household income at $56,716, Morris County families need careful financial planning to build wealth, starting with achievable savings goals of $1,000–$2,000 annually directed to accessible savings accounts or employer retirement plans. Focus on expense reduction and finding community financial assistance can free up resources for long-term financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Morris County

via CrimeByCounty

Morris County Stays Below National Average

Morris County maintains a total crime rate of 1,429.9 per 100,000, which is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 97.7 shows it remains a generally safe place to live. It offers a secure environment compared to much of the country.

Tracking the Kansas Safety Average

The safety score of 97.7 is just slightly under the state average of 98.0. However, the total crime rate of 1,429.9 is higher than the Kansas average of 1,282.2, as reported by two local agencies. It remains a competitive area for public safety within the state.

Safety Comparisons to Other Counties

Morris County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Marshall County but remains much safer than Montgomery County. It occupies a middle ground in terms of safety within the state's landscape. It is safer than many similarly sized counties across the nation.

Analyzing Local Crime Numbers

Property crime accounts for 1,151.3 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is well below the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is also moderate at 278.6, significantly lower than the national figure of 369.8. Residents face relatively low risks in their daily activities.

Protecting Your Morris County Property

Residents should focus on protecting their property to keep total crime rates trending downward. Simple security habits, like checking window locks and using smart doorbells, can make a big difference. Community participation helps maintain Morris County’s high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Morris County

via HealthByCounty

Morris slightly trails national average

Morris County's 75.5-year life expectancy falls 0.6 years short of the U.S. average of 76.1 years, a small but measurable gap. The 16.8% poor/fair health rate sits below the national average of 17%, suggesting Morris's population carries moderate health burden for its lifespan.

Morris lags Kansas's state average

At 75.5 years, Morris County's life expectancy trails Kansas's 75.4-year state average by just 0.1 year—essentially at parity with the state. The 10.6% uninsured rate is slightly below the state average of 11.5%, indicating adequate health insurance coverage.

Morris sits in the middle tier

Morris County's 75.5-year life expectancy places it squarely between high performers like McPherson (77.6) and struggling counties like Meade (74.1). With 56 primary care providers per 100K and 75 mental health providers, Morris offers moderate provider density—better than Marion but less than Marshall or Mitchell.

Moderate coverage and provider access

Morris County's 10.6% uninsured rate sits modestly below the state average, meaning most residents maintain health coverage. With 56 primary care providers and 75 mental health specialists per 100K, Morris residents enjoy reasonable access to healthcare, though travel distances may exceed those in higher-density counties.

Get covered in Morris County

If you're among Morris's 10.6% uninsured residents, visit healthcare.gov to explore marketplace plans and subsidies. Securing coverage connects you to Morris's network of providers and supports your long-term health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Morris County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Focus in Morris County

Morris County provides a rural educational experience for 875 students across four public schools. The infrastructure is comprised of two elementary schools and two high schools, ensuring a local campus for both primary and secondary learners. This compact system focuses on serving the local community through dedicated rural campuses.

Exceptional Outcomes for Morris Students

The county boasts a stellar 93.8% graduation rate, far outpacing the state average of 88.7% and the national 87% rate. While per-pupil spending is $8,896, slightly under the state average, the results are clear in the 59.6 school score. This performance indicates that Morris County schools are highly effective at guiding students to graduation.

Council Grove and Rural Vista Schools

Education is centered around the Morris County and Rural Vista schools, with Council Grove Elementary being the largest at 352 students. Rural Vista serves the smaller outlying communities through campuses like White City Elementary. There are no charter schools in the county, maintaining a 100% traditional public school landscape.

Small Campuses in a Scenic Rural Setting

All four schools in the county are classified as rural, offering a quiet and safe learning environment. The average school size is 219 students, though this varies from the 352-student Council Grove Elementary to the very small White City High with just 47 students. This scale allows for highly personalized attention for every student.

Secure Your Future in Council Grove

For families who value high graduation rates and small class sizes, Morris County is an ideal destination. Homes near Council Grove or White City offer a peaceful lifestyle paired with proven academic success. Knowing your child will attend a school with a 93% graduation rate makes Morris County a smart move for any home buyer.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Morris County

via RiskByCounty

Morris County's low risk profile

Morris County scores 27.45 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting slightly below Kansas's state average of 29.89. This places the county in a favorable risk tier nationally.

Below-average risk for Kansas

Morris County ranks in the lower-risk tier among Kansas's 105 counties, with below-average exposure across most hazard types. Its Very Low rating reflects one of the state's more favorable natural disaster profiles.

Safer than most surrounding areas

Morris County's 27.45 score sits below Marshall (21.41) but outperforms Marion (37.98) and McPherson (39.22). The county benefits from a relatively balanced, moderate-risk geographic position.

Wildfire the leading concern

Wildfire risk reaches 84.06, the highest hazard in Morris County and significantly elevated compared to most statewide peers. Tornado exposure ranks second at 54.20, representing a secondary but notable threat.

Wildfire preparedness priority

Morris County residents should maintain homeowners insurance with robust wildfire coverage and clear vegetation around home perimeters. Standard policies typically cover wildfire damage, but verifying adequate limits and low deductibles ensures solid protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Morris County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Continental Climate Averages

Morris County's 55.5°F average temperature sits slightly above the national median. It experiences a balanced mix of 35.0 inches of rain and 13.5 inches of snow.

Aligning with Kansas Climate Benchmarks

The county's 55.5°F average is very close to the state mean of 54.8°F. Precipitation is slightly higher than the state average, coming in at 35.0 inches annually.

Cooler and Drier than Southern Peers

Morris is notably cooler than Montgomery County's 58.1°F average and much drier than Miami's 40.1-inch rainfall. It represents a middle ground for Kansas weather.

Steady Snow and Summer Heat

The seasons bring 47 days of heat over 90°F and an average snowfall of 13.5 inches. July temperatures peak at 79.8°F, while January stays cold at 29.9°F.

Versatile Gear for Changing Seasons

Residents need a full range of gear, from heavy winter coats to cooling systems for the 47 heat days. Maintain a clear driveway for the 13.5 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Morris County

via SoilByCounty

Optimal pH for Peak Production

Morris County features a pH of 6.55, which is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5. This chemical sweet spot is ideal for nutrient availability, making it some of the most versatile land in the state.

Extremely Fine Silty Soil

The soil is comprised of 62.7% silt and 30.3% clay, with a very low sand content of only 7.0%. This incredibly fine texture produces a rich, heavy soil that is exceptional at holding onto organic nutrients.

Exceptional Organic and Water Metrics

Organic matter is very high at 3.06%, far surpassing the state average of 2.22%. Additionally, the available water capacity of 0.203 in/in is one of the highest in the region, offering incredible resilience against drought.

Managing Dense Clay and Silt

While drainage class data is limited, the high silt-to-sand ratio indicates a soil that drains slowly and holds water tightly. This density provides great stability for native grasses but can be challenging for builders in wet weather.

Top-Tier Potential in Zone 6b

With an impressive soil score of 78.7, Morris County ranks as a premier agricultural destination. The Zone 6b climate, paired with this elite soil, is perfect for high-yield farming and spectacular home gardens.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Morris County

via LawnByCounty

Excellent Growing Conditions in Morris County

Morris County features a high lawn difficulty score of 70.8, making it one of the easiest places in Kansas to maintain a beautiful yard. It far exceeds the national average of 50.0 and the state average of 59.1. The Zone 6b climate provides a reliable window for both cool-season and transition grasses.

Optimal Rainfall and Moderate Summers

The county receives 35.0 inches of rain annually, hitting the ideal target for low-stress lawn maintenance. With only 47 extreme heat days, turf is less likely to go dormant or suffer from heat stress compared to the state average of 58 days. The primary growing season typically begins after the last spring frost on April 11.

Heavy Clay Requires Aeration Efforts

Morris County soil has a pH of 6.55, which is almost perfect for most lawn species. However, with a 30.3% clay content and only 7.0% sand, the soil is prone to compaction and slow drainage. Homeowners should prioritize annual core aeration to ensure water and nutrients reach the root system effectively.

Consistent Moisture and Low Stress

The county only experienced 9 weeks of drought over the last year and currently has 0% abnormally dry area. This stability is a significant advantage, allowing for more predictable lawn care and lower water bills. Even so, using drought-tolerant practices will protect the lawn during the occasional 47 heat days.

Early Starts Lead to Better Lawns

Tall Fescue and Bluegrass are the top recommendations for this 6b climate with its 35 inches of rain. Because the last frost is early on April 11, you can get a head start on spring seeding to establish roots before the summer heat. With such a high difficulty score, Morris County is a gardener's paradise.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Morris County's county score?
Morris County, Kansas has a composite county score of 51.3 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 Morris County rank among counties in Kansas?
Morris County ranks #51 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 Morris County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Morris County is $1,870, with an effective tax rate of 1.55%. This earns Morris County a tax score of 11/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Morris County?
The median household income in Morris County, Kansas is $56,716 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Morris County earns an income score of 29.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Morris County, Kansas a good place to live?
Morris County scores 51.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Morris 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 Morris County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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