countyscore
72.2
County Score
Safety 89.2Schools 83.4Disaster Risk 82.6

County Report Card

About Nemaha County, Kansas

Nemaha County Surges Above National Median

With a composite score of 72.1, Nemaha County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. This high performance places it among the top-rated counties for quality of life nationwide. Its metrics suggest a thriving, well-rounded community.

A Top-Performing Kansas County

Nemaha's 72.1 score towers over the Kansas state average of 49.5. It represents the gold standard for rural Kansas living, combining economic health with public safety. The county consistently outpaces its neighbors in almost every critical category.

Superior Safety and Strong Local Economy

The county boasts an elite 89.2 safety score and a robust 80.6 income score, with median household earnings at $77,375. Public schools are a major draw, earning a high 83.4 score. These strengths create a stable environment for both businesses and families.

Tax Rates and Water Quality Trade-offs

While the effective tax rate of 0.978% is better than many, the tax score of 39.8 shows room for improvement relative to national leaders. Water quality is the main laggard with a score of 46.9. These remain minor obstacles in an otherwise stellar profile.

The Ideal Choice for Family Growth

Nemaha County is a premier destination for families who want the safety of a small town without sacrificing education or income. Its high scores across school, safety, and income make it a rare all-rounder. It provides exceptional value for those seeking a high-quality Midwestern lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax39.8Cost70.3Safety89.2Health76.8Schools83.4Income80.6Risk82.6Water46.9Weather50.7
🏛39.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠70.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼80.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡89.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤76.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧46.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨78.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.1
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

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62.5
Brown County
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50.4
Marshall County
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57.6
Jackson County
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Nemaha County
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Pottawatomie County
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Johnson County
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Deep Dives

Nemaha County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Nemaha County

via TaxByCounty

Nemaha's low rate beats nation

Nemaha County's effective tax rate of 0.978% ranks among the lowest in the nation, well below the national median of 1.549% and setting it in the bottom quartile. This makes Nemaha one of the most tax-friendly counties in America for property owners.

Kansas's lowest-taxed county

At 0.978%, Nemaha County has the lowest effective tax rate among the eight featured counties and well below the state average of 1.549%. This exceptional rate reflects the county's approach to property taxation.

Nemaha stands out for low taxes

Nemaha's 0.978% rate is substantially lower than every comparable county in the region, including Osage (1.598%), Ottawa (1.615%), and Osborne (1.612%). Homeowners here enjoy a significant tax advantage over neighbors.

Median tax bill stays modest

On a median home value of $196,100, Nemaha County residents pay just $1,917 in annual property taxes. This is remarkably affordable given the home values and underscores the county's tax-efficient governance.

Appeal if assessed too high

Even in low-tax counties like Nemaha, some homeowners face inflated assessments. If your home's assessed value seems out of line with comparable sales in your area, an appeal—filed with your county assessor—is free and worth the effort.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Nemaha County

via CostByCounty

Nemaha County: affordable by national standards

With a rent-to-income ratio of 11.3%, Nemaha County sits comfortably within the healthy housing affordability zone and beats the national average. Median household income of $77,375 exceeds the national average by nearly $2,600, while median rent at $726/month keeps housing costs modest relative to earnings.

Top quartile affordability in Kansas

Nemaha County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio stands well above the Kansas state average of 14.7%, securing it among the state's most affordable counties for renters. The county's median income of $77,375 is also one of the stronger earnings figures in Kansas, amplifying housing affordability even further.

Nemaha County leads the neighborhood

At $726/month, Nemaha's median rent is competitive with Osage County ($810) but higher than bargain markets like Morton ($637) and Osborne ($591). However, Nemaha commands a significant homeownership advantage: a median home value of $196,100 reflects community stability and equity potential that rival any neighbor in this region.

Renters win; homeowners invest

Renters spend 11.3% of income on housing, while homeowners allocate 11.8% ($762 monthly), creating nearly identical affordability for both pathways. With median home values at $196,100—higher than most peers—homebuyers here are building equity in a county where incomes support the purchase price.

Strong income, accessible housing, proven value

Nemaha County attracts families balancing affordability with long-term stability: above-average income, near-bottom-quartile rent burden, and homes appreciating in value. If you're trading up from cheaper but stagnant markets, Nemaha offers the rare combination of affordability and investment potential.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Nemaha County

via IncomeByCounty

Nemaha County leads Kansas in income

Nemaha County's median household income of $77,375 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $2,620, marking it among Kansas's strongest-performing counties. The county outearns the state average of $64,428 by nearly $13,000 annually.

Top earner among Kansas counties

Nemaha County ranks near the very top of Kansas counties for household income, commanding one of the state's highest median household earnings. Its per capita income of $38,996 significantly exceeds Kansas's state average of $34,748.

Clear income advantage over region

Nemaha County's $77,375 median household income substantially outpaces nearby Norton County ($50,305) and Neosho County ($55,704), showcasing the strongest earning power in this region. Only Ottawa County ($76,755) comes close to Nemaha's income levels.

Strong income supports local living costs

Nemaha County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio indicates minimal housing cost burden, freeing households to pursue other financial goals. The county's median home value of $196,100 remains within reach for its well-earning population.

Capitalize on Nemaha's strong earnings

Nemaha County's above-average income positions residents to build substantial wealth through disciplined saving and investment strategies. Consider diversifying into real estate, retirement accounts, and long-term securities to compound your county's income advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Nemaha County

via CrimeByCounty

Nemaha County is one of the nation's safest

The county boasts a remarkable total crime rate of only 225.1 per 100K, which is nearly ten times lower than the national average. This stellar performance results in a safety score of 99.6 out of 100.

Outperforming the Kansas state average

Nemaha's crime rate of 225.1 is vastly superior to the Kansas average of 1282.2 per 100K. Its safety score of 99.6 also beats the state benchmark of 98.0 by a healthy margin.

Leading neighboring counties in public safety

With a violent crime rate of just 19.6, Nemaha County offers a level of security that many surrounding areas cannot match. It remains a standout performer in the Northeast Kansas region.

Crime is exceptionally rare for local residents

Violent crime is almost non-existent at 19.6 incidents per 100K, while property crime sits at a low 205.5. These numbers indicate a community where serious criminal activity is the exception, not the rule.

Maintain the standard of community safety

Even in high-safety zones like Nemaha, simple precautions prevent local crimes of opportunity. Continue to use basic deadbolts and share safety concerns with your local neighborhood watch groups.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Nemaha County

via HealthByCounty

Nemaha County outperforms national health benchmarks

Nemaha County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 79.0 years, exceeding the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 2.6 years—a remarkable advantage. Only 15.1% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 17.0%, suggesting strong community health outcomes.

Nemaha County ranks among Kansas's healthiest

With a life expectancy of 79.0 years, Nemaha County significantly outperforms Kansas's state average of 75.4 years, placing it in the upper tier of Kansas counties. The uninsured rate of 8.1% also beats the state average of 11.5%, indicating better health security.

Nemaha County leads regional health outcomes

Nemaha County's 79.0-year life expectancy surpasses nearby Norton County (78.8 years) and substantially outpaces Morton County (74.0 years), signaling consistent investment in health and wellbeing. The uninsured rate of 8.1% is among the lowest in the region.

Strong primary care access supports health gains

Nemaha County provides 127 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, among the highest in its region, enabling accessible preventive and routine care. With only 8.1% uninsured, most residents can afford to use these providers, supporting the county's exceptional health outcomes.

Keep coverage strong in your community

Nemaha County's low uninsured rate reflects strong enrollment in health plans—continue exploring employer coverage and Kansas marketplace options to maintain this health advantage. Community commitment to accessible healthcare has made a measurable difference in how long and how well Nemaha residents live.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Nemaha County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in Northeast Kansas

Nemaha County manages a robust education system featuring nine public schools serving 2,027 total students. Three districts coordinate a mix of four elementary schools, one middle school, and four high schools for the region.

Graduation Rates Outpace State Benchmarks

The county boasts an impressive 96.3% graduation rate, far exceeding the state average of 88.7% and the national median of 87.0%. With a school score of 60.3 and per-pupil spending of $8,590, Nemaha delivers strong results while remaining near state investment levels.

Prairie Hills Leads by Enrollment

The Prairie Hills district is the largest, managing seven schools and 1,068 students. Nemaha Central and Vermillion follow, serving 774 and 652 students respectively, with no charter schools currently in the county.

A Blend of Town and Rural Life

The county features a mix of seven rural and two town-based schools, with an average enrollment of 225 students. Nemaha Central Elementary and Middle is the largest single campus with 553 students, while local high schools remain small and personalized.

Move to a Top-Tier School District

Nemaha County’s high graduation rates make it a premier destination for families prioritizing academic success. Discover homes in Sabetha or Seneca to secure a place in these high-achieving districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Nemaha County

via RiskByCounty

Nemaha County: low risk below state average

Nemaha County's composite risk score of 17.43 places it well below Kansas's state average of 29.89, earning a very low risk rating nationally. This county faces substantially less natural disaster exposure than most U.S. counties, though vigilance remains important for localized hazards.

Among Kansas's safest counties

Ranking near the bottom of Kansas counties for overall disaster risk, Nemaha County scores significantly lower than the state average across most hazard categories. Its very low composite score reflects relatively minimal exposure to major natural threats statewide.

Lower risk than eastern Kansas peers

Nemaha County's 17.43 score outperforms neighboring Doniphan and Marshall Counties in overall safety, though wildfire risk (82.82) does exceed regional norms. The county's tornado risk (58.30) mirrors typical northeast Kansas exposure patterns.

Wildfire emerges as primary hazard

Wildfire risk at 82.82 significantly outpaces other hazards in Nemaha County, reflecting grassland conditions and seasonal drought patterns common to the region. Tornado risk follows at 58.30, while flood risk (23.31) and earthquake risk (21.85) pose secondary concerns.

Secure wildfire and tornado coverage

Homeowners in Nemaha County should prioritize comprehensive wildfire insurance and wind damage coverage given the county's high wildfire exposure relative to other risks. Bundle these protections with standard homeowner's insurance and create a defensible space plan around your property.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Nemaha County

via WeatherByCounty

A Typical North-Central Climate Profile

Nemaha’s 53.7°F average temperature sits close to the national median. However, its 35.8 inches of annual rain makes it wetter than many Great Plains peers.

Cooler and Wetter Than State Average

The county ranks slightly cooler than the state average of 54.8°F. It receives about 5 more inches of rain than the typical Kansas county, making it one of the state's more fertile regions.

Milder Heat Compared to the South

Nemaha experiences 37 days over 90°F, which is far fewer than the high heat counts found in southern Kansas. It also enjoys more moisture than counties to the west.

Snowy Winters and Moderate Summers

Snowfall is a major factor here, with 22.8 inches coating the ground annually. Summer highs average 76.0°F, providing a milder experience than the state's hotter southern corners.

Prioritize Home Insulation and Drainage

Homeowners should prioritize roof maintenance for heavy snow and insulation for the 30.2°F winter lows. Gardeners can successfully take advantage of the generous 35.8 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Nemaha County

via SoilByCounty

Near Perfect pH Balance

Nemaha County's soil boasts an average pH of 6.48, sitting almost exactly at the national ideal of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this region, this neutral acidity creates an excellent foundation for diverse plant health.

The Silt-Rich Prairie Soil

The soil is comprised of 55.1% silt and 28.2% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 16.6%. This silty profile provides a smooth, workable texture that excels at holding onto essential nutrients for crop production.

Elite Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter content is an impressive 3.28%, far exceeding the Kansas state average of 2.22%. Coupled with an available water capacity of 0.197 in/in, this soil is among the most naturally fertile in the state.

High Capacity for Moisture

Though specific drainage classifications are limited in current records, the high water capacity suggests the soil acts as an efficient reservoir. Farmers can rely on this storage during dry spells to sustain growth.

Bountiful Zone 6a Harvests

In hardiness zone 6a, these fertile silty soils are perfect for high-yield corn and soybeans. The high organic matter makes this an ideal spot for a home vegetable garden featuring nutrient-heavy crops like tomatoes.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Nemaha County

via LawnByCounty

Prime lawn conditions in Nemaha County

Nemaha County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 75.1, making it much easier to maintain than both the national and state averages. Located in USDA Zone 6a, this region provides a hospitable environment for lush, green turf. Most homeowners find success here with standard maintenance routines.

Ideal rainfall and moderate summers

The county enjoys 35.8 inches of annual precipitation, which sits perfectly within the ideal range for healthy grass. With only 37 extreme heat days annually, lawns face far less stress than the state average of 58 days. Mowing schedules typically follow the 3902 growing degree days that support consistent growth from spring through autumn.

Perfectly balanced soil pH

The soil pH in Nemaha County averages 6.48, which falls directly into the 6.0-7.0 sweet spot for nutrient uptake. Although local data on drainage is limited, the 28.2% clay content suggests the soil retains moisture well. This natural chemistry reduces the need for expensive lime or sulfur amendments.

Strong resilience to dry weather

The county currently reports 0.0% of its area in drought conditions, offering a great start for new growth. Even with 14 weeks of drought over the past year, the area remains more resilient than many of its neighbors. Routine mulching of grass clippings helps maintain this natural soil moisture during the occasional dry week.

Thriving in Zone 6a

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue are excellent performers in this climate and soil profile. Plan your seeding projects around the frost-free window between April 19 and October 19. With such favorable conditions, your lawn is well-positioned for a successful growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nemaha County's county score?
Nemaha County, Kansas has a composite county score of 72.2 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 Nemaha County rank among counties in Kansas?
Nemaha County ranks #1 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 Nemaha County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Nemaha County is $1,917, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Nemaha County a tax score of 39.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Nemaha County?
The median household income in Nemaha County, Kansas is $77,375 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Nemaha County earns an income score of 80.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Nemaha County, Kansas a good place to live?
Nemaha County scores 72.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Nemaha 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 Nemaha County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.