countyscore
42
County Score
Disaster Risk 95.4Water Quality 86Cost of Living 81.3

County Report Card

About Morton County, Kansas

Morton County Lags Behind National Median

Morton County earns a 42.0 composite score, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a rural profile with specialized strengths but broader infrastructure challenges. It ranks in the lower tier of counties across the United States.

Below the Kansas Average for Livability

The county's overall score of 42.0 falls short of the Kansas state average of 49.5. While it provides a unique rural lifestyle, it lacks the balanced metrics found in higher-ranking state peers. It remains one of the more affordable but less serviced counties in the region.

Excellent Environmental Resilience and Low Costs

Morton County excels in environmental stability with a near-perfect risk score of 95.4. It also offers incredible affordability, boasting an 81.3 cost score and a median gross rent of just $637. Water quality remains a significant asset with a high score of 86.0.

High Tax Burdens and School Limitations

The local tax burden is heavy, with a 2.042% effective rate resulting in a very low 2.8 tax score. School performance also lags significantly behind regional peers with a score of 17.2. These factors present hurdles for families seeking robust public services.

A Haven for Remote Budget-Conscious Individuals

Morton County is best suited for individuals who prioritize low housing costs and environmental safety above all else. Its $95,600 median home value is ideal for those looking to maximize their savings. It offers a quiet, low-risk lifestyle for those not dependent on local school systems.

Score breakdown

Tax2.8Cost81.3Safety34.3Health35.6Schools17.2Income56.3Risk95.4Water86Weather44.1
🏛2.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠81.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼56.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡34.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓17.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡95.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨27
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱44.4
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

Morton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Morton County

via TaxByCounty

Morton taxes rank high nationally

Morton County's effective tax rate of 2.042% sits well above the national median of 1.549%, placing it in the top quartile of U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $1,952, compared to the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's lower home values rather than lower rates.

Among the highest-taxed in Kansas

At 2.042%, Morton County ranks in the upper tier of Kansas counties, exceeding the state average effective rate of 1.549% by about 32%. This makes it one of the more tax-intensive places to own property in Kansas.

Taxes climb in Morton County

Morton County's 2.042% rate outpaces nearby Ness County (1.965%) and Norton County (1.491%). Among the eight-county region, only Morton and Ness counties exceed the state average rate, signaling higher tax burdens here.

Annual tax on median home

A home valued at $95,600—the county median—costs $1,952 in annual property taxes under Morton's 2.042% rate. Owners with mortgages typically pay slightly more ($2,108) due to escrow adjustments.

Consider appealing your assessment

Many homeowners in high-tax counties like Morton are overassessed relative to actual market value. Filing an assessment appeal costs nothing and could reduce your tax bill if your home's assessed value exceeds its fair market worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Morton County

via CostByCounty

Morton County rents are a bargain

Renters in Morton County spend just 11.7% of their income on housing—well below the national affordability sweet spot of 12-15%. While median household income here ($65,625) trails the national average ($74,755) by about 12%, the county's low rent burden of $637/month makes it one of Kansas's most accessible rental markets.

Among Kansas's most affordable

Morton County ranks favorably within Kansas, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.7% compared to the state average of 14.7%—a 3-percentage-point advantage that puts renters here in genuinely comfortable territory. Median rent of $637/month undercuts the Kansas state average of $787 by $150, creating real savings for working families.

Morton County vs. the region

Morton County's $637 median rent is the lowest among its peer counties, with nearby Ness County ($653) and Nemaha County ($726) running noticeably higher. Homebuyers will find Morton's median value of $95,600 competitive regionally, though neighbors like Nemaha ($196,100) and Ottawa ($164,100) command significantly steeper prices.

Renting beats buying here

Renters allocate just 11.7% of income to housing, while homeowners commit 12.8% ($698 monthly on a $65,625 income), making rental the more affordable path. With a median home value of $95,600, both pathways remain accessible, though monthly owner costs ($698) are remarkably close to rent ($637)—a rare equilibrium.

A hidden gem for budget-conscious renters

If housing affordability tops your relocation checklist, Morton County delivers: lowest rents in the region and a rent-to-income ratio that beats the state by 3 percentage points. Compare this rural haven to pricier neighbors like Osage County ($810 rent) or Ottawa County ($738 rent) and you'll see why value-seeking renters should take a closer look.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Morton County

via IncomeByCounty

Morton County trails national income average

Morton County's median household income of $65,625 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by about $9,100 annually. While the county sits below the U.S. average, it still outpaces Kansas's statewide median of $64,428, placing it in the state's upper-middle tier.

Above-average earner in Kansas

Morton County ranks in the top third of Kansas counties for household income, earning $1,197 more than the state average. This positions the county as a relative economic strength in rural Kansas.

Mixed results among neighboring counties

Morton County's $65,625 median sits between Ness County ($66,107) and Neosho County ($55,704), showing modest geographic variation. The county's per capita income of $29,023 trails the state average of $34,748, suggesting wealth concentration in fewer households.

Housing costs are manageable here

At 11.7%, Morton County's rent-to-income ratio signals healthy affordability—well below the 30% threshold that defines housing cost burden. Median home values of $95,600 remain accessible on the county's median income, though renters enjoy better affordability than homebuyers.

Build financial security in Morton County

With manageable housing costs consuming only 11.7% of household income, Morton County residents have opportunity to direct resources toward savings and investments. Consider working with a financial advisor to maximize retirement contributions and explore homeownership as a wealth-building tool.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Morton County

via CrimeByCounty

Morton County remains safer than national standards

Morton County reports a total crime rate of 1525.3 per 100K residents, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a high safety score of 97.6 out of 100.

Local rates track closely with Kansas averages

The county's safety score of 97.6 sits just below the Kansas state average of 98.0. While the total crime rate of 1525.3 slightly exceeds the state average of 1282.2, Morton remains a low-crime area.

A regional leader in violent crime prevention

Morton County's violent crime rate of 74.4 is much lower than the Kansas average of 235.9. Compared to more populous regions, local authorities manage to keep violent incidents rare across the county.

Property crimes drive the majority of local reports

Property crimes account for 1450.9 of the total 1525.3 offenses per 100K residents. This means residents are much more likely to face theft than personal violence in their daily lives.

Secure your property to stay safe

Since property crime is the primary concern here, basic home security makes a big difference. Lighting your perimeter and locking vehicles helps deter opportunistic theft in the community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Morton County

via HealthByCounty

Morton County lags behind national health trends

At 74.0 years, Morton County's life expectancy falls short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years, marking a 2.4-year gap that signals underlying health challenges. Nearly 1 in 5 residents (18.3%) report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of 17.0%.

Health outcomes trail Kansas state average

Morton County ranks below Kansas's state life expectancy of 75.4 years, a 1.4-year deficit that places it among the lower-performing counties statewide. The uninsured rate of 15.2% also exceeds Kansas's state average of 11.5%, leaving more residents vulnerable.

Morton County faces steeper challenges than peers

Neighboring Norton County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 78.8 years—nearly 5 years longer than Morton County's 74.0 years. Morton County's uninsured rate of 15.2% also stands notably higher than Norton County's 10.5%, suggesting greater economic barriers to care.

Primary care access varies; mental health services robust

Morton County has 111 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—well above the national recommendation of 50—but 15.2% of residents remain uninsured, limiting their ability to access that care. Mental health providers number 39 per 100,000, providing a solid foundation for behavioral health support.

Explore coverage options today

With 1 in 7 Morton County residents uninsured, exploring health insurance options through the Kansas marketplace or employer plans can dramatically improve access to the primary care providers available in your community. Local health departments and community health centers can connect you with enrollment assistance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Morton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network Focused on Elkhart

Morton County supports 1,765 students across seven public schools, primarily concentrated in two school districts. The infrastructure includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools to serve this southwestern corner of Kansas.

Comparing Achievement to Modest Investment

The county reports an 86.6% graduation rate, which sits just below the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 88.7%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $5,394—significantly lower than the $9,009 state average—the county maintains a school score of 48.3.

Elkhart Leads Regional Education

The Elkhart school district dominates the local landscape, overseeing five schools and 1,668 students. The smaller Rolla district serves 97 students across two schools, and currently, there are no charter schools operating within the county.

Small Classrooms in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating an intimate average school size of 252 students. While Kansas Connections Academy is the largest with 1,251 students, traditional brick-and-mortar sites like Rolla Elementary serve as few as 50 children.

Find Your Home in Morton County

Families looking for a close-knit community will find plenty of opportunities near the schools in Elkhart and Rolla. Explore local real estate where school quality and rural peace go hand-in-hand.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Morton County

via RiskByCounty

Morton County's disaster risk: well below average

With a composite risk score of 4.68, Morton County ranks as very low risk nationally and sits far below Kansas's state average of 29.89. This county faces minimal natural disaster exposure compared to most U.S. counties, giving residents substantially better odds of avoiding major natural hazards.

Safest county in Kansas

Morton County has the lowest composite risk score of any Kansas county, significantly outpacing state averages across multiple hazard types. This exceptional safety profile makes it one of the most protected counties in the state for natural disaster exposure.

Morton County stands apart from neighbors

At 4.68, Morton County's risk score dramatically undercuts neighbors like Stanton County and Texas County, which face higher wildfire and tornado exposure. This county's western plains location and lower population density contribute to its exceptionally low disaster vulnerability.

Wildfire and tornado: your main concerns

Wildfire risk (73.06) and tornado risk (20.07) represent Morton County's most significant natural hazards, though both remain below national averages. Flood risk is minimal at 0.92, and earthquake risk is modest at 16.98, leaving wildfire preparedness as your strongest planning priority.

Prioritize wildfire and wind insurance

Even in low-risk Morton County, wildfire insurance and comprehensive wind coverage should anchor your homeowner's policy given the county's elevated wildfire score. Review your coverage annually and maintain defensible space around your home to reduce wildfire risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Morton County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Dry High Plains Climate

Morton County averages 55.8°F, placing it above the national median temperature. Its 17.7 inches of annual rain marks it as significantly drier than most American counties.

One of the State's Warmer Extremes

At 55.8°F, Morton stays a full degree warmer than the Kansas average of 54.8°F. It is also much drier than the state average of 30.3 inches, reflecting its far-west position.

Drier Than Its Eastern Neighbors

The county receives less than half the rainfall of eastern Kansas and experiences 76 extreme heat days. This makes it hotter and more arid than counties in the central part of the state.

Intense Summers and Brisk Winters

Residents face 76 days above 90°F, while winter averages a cool 35.5°F. Annual snowfall reaches 18.2 inches, providing a surprising winter contrast to the dry summer heat.

Prepare for Heat and Limited Rain

High heat demands robust air conditioning systems and water-conscious landscaping for the 17.7-inch rainfall budget. Winter drivers should keep emergency kits ready for the 18 inches of seasonal snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Morton County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Vertisols of Morton County

Morton County features a dominant soil order of Vertisols with an average pH of 7.25, making it notably more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This pH level is also higher than the Kansas state average of 6.80, influencing how nutrients interact with the land.

A Sandy Mix with Clay Character

The soil composition is unique, containing 55.3% sand, 27.8% silt, and 16.9% clay. While technically categorized by dominant texture as clay, the high sand content generally aids drainage, though the clay components retain enough moisture to remain workable.

Arid Fertility Challenges

With an organic matter content of just 1.15%, the soil sits well below the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.140 in/in also lags behind the Kansas average of 0.180, suggesting a need for careful irrigation and soil building.

Managing Poorly Drained Hydrologic Group D

The county's soil is classified as poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group D, which indicates high runoff potential. Builders and farmers must account for slow water movement through the profile during heavy rains.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 6b

Located in USDA Zone 6b, this soil supports hardy crops like winter wheat and sorghum that can handle alkaline conditions. Native shortgrass prairie species thrive here, so consider starting a drought-tolerant garden with local favorites.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Morton County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging conditions in Morton County

Morton County faces a tough lawn care environment with a difficulty score of 44.4, falling well below the national median of 50.0. Maintaining a green space in this USDA Zone 6b region is significantly harder than the Kansas state average of 59.1. Homeowners must work against high heat and limited natural moisture to keep turf healthy.

High heat and dry plains climate

The county receives just 17.7 inches of annual precipitation, far short of the 30-50 inches ideal for most lawn grasses. With 76 extreme heat days per year, nearly 20 more than the state average, lawns require intensive irrigation to survive the summer. The 4059 growing degree days indicate a long, warm season that accelerates grass growth when water is available.

Working with alkaline clay soils

Soil here is predominantly clay with a high sand content of 55.3% and a slightly alkaline pH of 7.25. While the pH is just above the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, the poorly drained nature of the soil makes proper aeration critical. Residents often need to manage water runoff carefully to prevent the clay-heavy texture from suffocating grass roots.

Managing near-constant dry spells

Drought is a persistent threat, with 99.7% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry. Over the past year, the area endured 15 weeks of drought, necessitating strict water conservation habits. Deep, infrequent watering and keeping grass taller can help lawns withstand these recurring dry periods.

Strategic planting for the high plains

Buffalograss or drought-tolerant fescue blends are the best choices for this Zone 6b climate. Aim to seed after the last spring frost on April 27 or plan for early fall before the first frost on October 23. Starting with the right seed and timing ensures your lawn survives the intense 79.2°F July heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Morton County's county score?
Morton County, Kansas has a composite county score of 42 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 Morton County rank among counties in Kansas?
Morton County ranks #81 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 Morton County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Morton County is $1,952, with an effective tax rate of 2.04%. This earns Morton County a tax score of 2.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Morton County?
The median household income in Morton County, Kansas is $65,625 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Morton County earns an income score of 56.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Morton County, Kansas a good place to live?
Morton County scores 42/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #81 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Morton 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 Morton 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.