countyscore
44.4
County Score
Schools 82.8Cost of Living 72.8Disaster Risk 67.5

County Report Card

About Neosho County, Kansas

Neosho County Faces National Headwinds

Neosho County earns a composite score of 44.4, which sits below the national median of 50.0. While it offers high marks in specific areas like education, other socioeconomic factors pull down its overall ranking. It faces typical challenges common to rural manufacturing hubs.

Tracking Below the Kansas Average

The county's 44.4 score is lower than the Kansas average of 49.5. This performance highlights a gap between its strong school system and its local economic and safety metrics. It ranks in the lower half of Kansas counties for overall livability.

Educational Excellence and Affordable Living

The standout feature is the school system, which earns an impressive 82.8 score. Housing is also highly accessible, with a cost score of 72.8 and a median gross rent of $650. These assets provide a solid foundation for local residents and young families.

Critical Safety and Economic Concerns

Safety is a primary concern here, with a score of only 3.0 reflecting significant local challenges. The income score of 27.0 also indicates that household earnings of $55,704 struggle to keep pace with state leaders. Additionally, the 1.483% effective tax rate limits the county's fiscal score.

Best for Education-Focused Budget Seekers

Neosho County suits residents who place a high premium on public school quality and low housing costs. It is an attractive option for those who can navigate local safety concerns to take advantage of its educational assets. The low cost of entry makes it accessible for first-time homebuyers.

Score breakdown

Tax13.5Cost72.8Safety3Health48.2Schools82.8Income27Risk67.5Water60.8Weather56.9
🏛13.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠72.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤48.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓82.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡67.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.9
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

Neosho County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Neosho County

via TaxByCounty

Neosho's tax rate near national median

Neosho County's effective tax rate of 1.483% sits just below the national median of 1.549%, placing it squarely in the middle of American counties. The median property tax of $1,501 is significantly lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting modest home values.

Slightly below Kansas average

At 1.483%, Neosho County's effective rate runs about 4% below the state average of 1.549%, positioning it among the more moderate-taxed counties in Kansas. The median tax of $1,501 is also below the state median of $1,943.

Middle ground in the region

Neosho's 1.483% rate falls between low-tax Nemaha (0.978%) and higher-tax counties like Osage (1.598%) and Ottawa (1.615%). It represents a tax environment that's comfortable but not exceptionally cheap or expensive.

Affordable annual property tax

The median home in Neosho County, valued at $101,200, costs $1,501 in annual property taxes. This combines a moderate rate with below-average home values, creating a genuinely affordable tax situation for homeowners.

Know your assessment rights

Neosho County homeowners can request an assessment review if they believe their home was valued too high relative to similar properties. This informal appeal process is free and may lower your tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Neosho County

via CostByCounty

Neosho County: tighter budgets, steady housing

Neosho County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio sits at the upper edge of affordability, reflecting a median income of $55,704 that lags the national average by nearly $19,000. Median rent of $650/month is reasonable in absolute terms, but the lower income base makes it a larger slice of the household budget.

Slightly above Kansas average on rent burden

Neosho County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the Kansas state average of 14.7% by a narrow margin, placing it in the middle of Kansas affordability rankings. The county's median income trails the state, which partly explains why housing costs consume a larger percentage of earnings here.

Neosho County among the moderate markets

Neosho's $650 median rent sits between the bargain options (Morton at $637, Osborne at $591) and the pricier markets (Osage at $810, Ottawa at $738). Homeownership is more expensive here: a $814 monthly owner cost paired with a $101,200 median home value makes this county better suited to established, stable households.

Renters have the edge—for now

Renters spend 14.0% of income on housing, while homeowners commit a steeper 17.5% ($814 monthly), making renting the more accessible entry point to housing stability. For households earning $55,704, the $164/month difference between rent and owner costs adds up significantly over a year.

Renters seeking stability should compare

Neosho County works best for renters willing to accept tighter budgets in exchange for lower absolute costs and a rural quality of life. If homeownership is your goal, compare Neosho's 17.5% owner-cost burden with affordability leaders like Morton County or Osborne County before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Neosho County

via IncomeByCounty

Neosho County significantly below national income

Neosho County's median household income of $55,704 lags the national median of $74,755 by nearly $19,000 annually, placing it among Kansas's lower-earning counties. The county trails the state average of $64,428 by almost $9,000.

Bottom tier of Kansas counties

Neosho County ranks among the lowest-income counties in Kansas, with median household earnings placing it in the bottom quartile statewide. Its per capita income of $30,510 also falls below Kansas's state average of $34,748.

Lowest earner in surrounding region

Neosho County's $55,704 median household income ranks well below regional peers, trailing Nemaha County ($77,375) by over $21,000 and Osage County ($70,216) by $14,500. Among neighboring counties, only Norton County ($50,305) earns less.

Housing costs strain Neosho budgets

At 14.0%, Neosho County's rent-to-income ratio signals modest cost burden, approaching the 30% threshold that triggers financial stress. The combination of lower incomes and higher housing cost burdens suggests many residents face tighter household budgets.

Strategic planning essential in Neosho

With higher rent burdens, Neosho County residents should prioritize budgeting and seek financial counseling to maximize limited discretionary income. Exploring income-boosting opportunities—such as job training programs, side income, or homeownership for wealth equity—can help build long-term financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Neosho County

via CrimeByCounty

Neosho County crime rates exceed national averages

Neosho County reports a total crime rate of 4100.8 per 100K, which is significantly higher than the national figure of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 93.5, indicating room for improvement compared to peers.

Local statistics higher than Kansas state norms

The county's total crime rate of 4100.8 is more than triple the Kansas state average of 1282.2. Its safety score of 93.5 currently trails the state average of 98.0.

Facing higher challenges than neighboring rural counties

Neosho’s violent crime rate of 404.4 is higher than the state average of 235.9 and nearby counties like Osage. This indicates a more active landscape for local law enforcement than in surrounding areas.

Property crimes dominate the local crime data

The vast majority of reported incidents are property crimes, which occur at a rate of 3696.4 per 100K. While violent crime exists at 404.4, residents are statistically far more likely to experience theft or burglary.

Take proactive steps to secure your home

Because property crime rates are elevated, installing home security cameras or alarm systems is a wise investment. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the three local reporting agencies.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Neosho County

via HealthByCounty

Neosho County trails U.S. health life expectancy

At 73.9 years, Neosho County's life expectancy falls 2.5 years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years, indicating health vulnerabilities relative to the nation. The poor/fair health rate of 17.5% approaches the national average, suggesting chronic health challenges affecting daily life.

Neosho County ranks below Kansas average

Neosho County's life expectancy of 73.9 years lags Kansas's state average of 75.4 years, placing it among the lower-performing counties in the state. The uninsured rate of 9.8% performs slightly better than the state average of 11.5%, yet health outcomes remain subdued.

Neosho County faces steeper health challenges

Nemaha County residents live to 79.0 years on average—5.1 years longer than Neosho County's 73.9 years—despite geographic proximity, suggesting significant disparities in economic or health resources. Neosho's 9.8% uninsured rate mirrors nearby Osage County (10.0%), hinting at shared regional challenges.

Mental health providers compensate for primary care gaps

Neosho County has only 63 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—below the national standard—but offers 110 mental health providers per 100,000, nearly double the state average. This imbalance suggests the county is addressing behavioral health needs, yet residents may struggle accessing routine medical care.

Coverage unlocks the providers you need

With 9.8% of Neosho County residents uninsured, coverage through Kansas marketplace plans or employer programs can bridge gaps to available primary care and mental health services. Enrollment assistance is available through local health departments and federally qualified health centers in your area.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Neosho County

via SchoolsByCounty

Strong Educational Infrastructure in Neosho

Neosho County educates 2,622 students through a network of 10 public schools across two primary districts. The county provides four elementary schools, three middle schools, and three high schools to serve its growing communities.

Exceptional Graduation Outcomes

At 96.6%, the graduation rate here is nearly 10 points higher than the national average of 87.0%. The county achieves a high school score of 60.2 while spending $8,459 per pupil, slightly less than the Kansas state average.

Chanute Public Schools Lead the Way

Chanute Public Schools is the largest district, serving 1,815 students across three comprehensive campuses. Erie-Galesburg manages the remaining three schools with 443 students, and the county does not offer any charter school alternatives.

Expansive Schools and Rural Charm

While eight schools are rural, Chanute Elementary stands out as a major hub with 813 students. The average school size is 262, though secondary schools like Erie High remain much smaller with 143 students.

Establish Your Family in Neosho

With graduation rates among the highest in the state, Neosho County is a smart choice for home buyers with children. Look for properties near Chanute or Erie to take advantage of these standout public schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Neosho County

via RiskByCounty

Neosho County: slightly above-average risk

Neosho County's composite risk score of 32.51 places it slightly above Kansas's state average of 29.89, though it still maintains a very low risk rating nationally. This county faces more natural disaster exposure than most Kansas peers, driven primarily by tornado and flood vulnerabilities.

Middle of the pack in Kansas risk

Neosho County ranks in the upper-middle tier of Kansas counties for disaster risk, exceeding the state average on multiple hazard fronts. Its tornado risk (64.57) and flood risk (39.89) push the county above statewide norms, reflecting its location in eastern Kansas.

Comparable risk to Crawford and Linn

Neosho County's 32.51 score aligns closely with neighboring Crawford and Linn Counties, all facing elevated tornado and flood risks typical of eastern Kansas. The county's slightly higher composite score reflects its position in a regionally vulnerable zone.

Tornado and flood dominate the risk profile

Tornado risk (64.57) is Neosho County's most pressing hazard, followed by flood risk (39.89) and earthquake risk (41.00), reflecting the county's eastern Kansas location near water systems. Wildfire risk is comparatively low at 21.06, though hurricane risk (24.32) adds seasonal vulnerability.

Bundle flood and tornado protection

Neosho County residents should maintain comprehensive coverage for tornado damage and separate flood insurance, as standard homeowner's policies exclude both perils. Review your coverage before severe weather season and ensure your family has a tornado safety plan.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Neosho County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Humidity and High Rainfall

Neosho’s 57.0°F average and 43.4 inches of rain create a lush, humid environment. This far exceeds the national rainfall median and marks it as a warm regional hub.

Warmest and Wettest in the State

It is significantly warmer and wetter than the Kansas averages of 54.8°F and 30.3 inches. Neosho ranks as one of the state's most humid southeast corners.

Lush Contrast to Western Plains

While western counties bake in dry heat, Neosho deals with a high 43.4 inches of precipitation. Its 9.7 inches of snow is much lower than the northern Kansas average.

Humid Summers and Mild Winters

July averages a sweltering 79.7°F with 48 days of extreme heat. Winters remain relatively mild, with the mercury averaging 35.3°F from December to February.

Manage Moisture and Summer Swelter

High humidity and 43 inches of rain require excellent drainage systems and dehumidifiers. Light winter gear usually suffices for the modest 9.7 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Neosho County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profiles in Neosho County

Neosho County has an average pH of 6.27, making it more acidic than the state average of 6.80. This slightly acidic profile is common in eastern Kansas and requires specific management for acid-sensitive crops.

Silty Soils for Better Retention

The soil consists of 55.3% silt, 26.7% clay, and 18.1% sand. This high silt-to-clay ratio ensures strong nutrient retention and a fine-grained texture that is generally easy to cultivate when moisture levels are right.

Above-Average Growing Potential

At 2.84%, the organic matter content is significantly higher than the 2.22% state average. The available water capacity of 0.185 in/in ensures that plants have a steady supply of moisture throughout the growing season.

Deep Water Storage

With water capacity exceeding the state average, these soils provide a stable environment for root systems. While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the silty-clay mix suggests moderate movement of water through the soil.

Thriving in Zone 7a

As part of the warmer hardiness zone 7a, Neosho County supports a long growing season for berries and specialty crops. This is a great environment to start a fruit orchard or a productive perennial garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Neosho County

via LawnByCounty

Supportive conditions in southeast Kansas

Neosho County earns a 62.9 lawn difficulty score, outperforming both the state average of 59.1 and the national median. As part of USDA Zone 7a, the county offers a slightly longer and warmer growing season than northern neighbors. This allows for a wider variety of grass species to thrive with moderate effort.

Abundant rainfall and long seasons

With 43.4 inches of annual precipitation, the county is among the wettest in the state, often meeting all a lawn's water needs naturally. The 4383 growing degree days signify a robust season, though 48 extreme heat days still require monitoring. Proper drainage is essential to handle the heavy rainfall typical of this region.

Acidic soil and clay textures

The soil pH averages 6.27, which is excellent for grass health and falls within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. A clay content of 26.7% provides good water retention but can become compacted over time. Regular aeration helps maintain the soil structure and ensures nutrients reach the root zone efficiently.

Watching for late summer dryness

Despite high annual rainfall, 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry. Neosho County experienced 20 weeks of drought over the last year, proving that even wet regions face water stress. Focus on building organic matter in the soil to act as a sponge during these fluctuating periods.

A long window for planting

Zone 7a allows for successful cultivation of both cool-season fescues and warm-season grasses like Zoysia. The growing season stretches from the last frost on April 10 to the first frost on October 29. Start your lawn projects in early spring to take full advantage of the generous 43.4 inches of rain.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Neosho County's county score?
Neosho 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 Neosho County rank among counties in Kansas?
Neosho County ranks #74 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 Neosho County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Neosho County is $1,501, with an effective tax rate of 1.48%. This earns Neosho County a tax score of 13.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Neosho County?
The median household income in Neosho County, Kansas is $55,704 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Neosho County earns an income score of 27/100 on CountyScore.
Is Neosho County, Kansas a good place to live?
Neosho County scores 44.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #74 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Neosho 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 Neosho County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.