countyscore
55.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.6Health 82.8Schools 80

County Report Card

About Pottawatomie County, Kansas

Leading the National Pack

Pottawatomie County secures a strong 55.5 composite score, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. It represents a highly developed and economically vibrant slice of America.

An Economic State Leader

With a score far above the Kansas average of 49.5, this county is a top-tier destination. It attracts residents with its combination of high-performing schools and a robust healthcare system.

High Incomes and Elite Schools

The county shines with a massive Income Score of 90.6, driven by a median household income of $87,694. Schools and health both score above 80.0, reflecting exceptional community services.

The Price of Prosperity

Success drives higher prices, resulting in a low Cost Score of 25.2. Median home values reach $223,000, and a low Water Score of 28.5 remains a challenge for the region.

Suited for High-Earning Families

This county is ideal for professionals and families who prioritize education and income potential over low housing costs. It offers a premium lifestyle backed by strong local economic fundamentals.

Score breakdown

Tax30.5Cost25.2Safety59.4Health82.8Schools80Income90.6Risk69.1Water28.5Weather47.4
🏛30.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠25.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤82.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓80
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡69.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧28.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨62.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱61.3
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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Nearby counties

Riley County
Kansas
34.7
Wabaunsee County
Kansas
52.3
Shawnee County
Kansas
30.7
Geary County
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Jackson County
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Marshall County
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Nemaha County
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Deep Dives

Pottawatomie County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pottawatomie County

via TaxByCounty

Pottawatomie has lowest county tax rate

At just 1.110%, Pottawatomie County ranks among the lowest-taxed counties in the nation, falling well below the national median effective rate of 1.549%. This exceptional rate places residents in the 15th percentile nationally—meaning they pay significantly less in property taxes than most Americans.

Kansas's most tax-friendly county

Pottawatomie's effective rate of 1.110% ranks as the lowest in Kansas, falling 0.439 percentage points below the state average of 1.549%. Despite this favorable rate, its median property tax of $2,475 exceeds most counties due to higher median home values ($223,000).

Clear tax advantage in region

Pottawatomie's 1.110% rate is substantially lower than any neighboring county examined, with the next-best rates—Rice County (1.551%) and Phillips County (1.697%)—running 44 and 59 basis points higher. This gives Pottawatomie residents a distinct tax advantage.

What homeowners pay annually

A typical Pottawatomie County home valued at $223,000 generates approximately $2,475 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,935; without one, it drops to $1,823.

Review your assessment today

Many Kansas homeowners pay more than they should due to outdated assessments. If your property tax seems high relative to comparable homes, filing an appeal with your county assessor's office could reduce your burden—and the process is free.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pottawatomie County

via CostByCounty

Pottawatomie: Higher incomes, higher costs

Pottawatomie County residents earn a median household income of $87,694—17% above the national median of $74,755—and spend 13.8% of that income on rent, below the national affordability ceiling. The county's higher incomes absorb its above-average housing costs, making it more accessible than raw rent figures suggest.

Kansas's most affluent housing market

Pottawatomie County boasts the highest median household income of any county in this analysis and ranks as one of Kansas's most affluent markets. Its 13.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average, reflecting the economic strength of the region.

Premium pricing for premium incomes

Pottawatomie's $1,011 monthly rent and $1,104 owner costs are the highest in the regional comparison, but the county's median household income of $87,694 is also the region's strongest. Home values of $223,000 reflect a substantially more developed market than surrounding rural counties.

Higher-income households pay proportionally less

Renters in Pottawatomie County pay $1,011 monthly while homeowners invest $1,104, but both remain manageable at 13.8% and 15% of household income respectively. The county's $223,000 median home value allows homeowners to build equity faster than in lower-value markets.

Pottawatomie attracts upwardly mobile families

If you're seeking a Kansas county with strong job markets and higher incomes, Pottawatomie County delivers both, with housing costs that remain proportionally affordable for higher earners. The region's economic momentum makes it a strategic choice for career-focused relocators.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pottawatomie County

via IncomeByCounty

Pottawatomie outearns the nation

Pottawatomie County's median household income of $87,694 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by nearly $13,000, positioning it firmly in the upper-income tier nationally. This achievement reflects the county's proximity to Fort Riley military installation and stronger economic diversification.

Kansas's income leader by far

At $87,694, Pottawatomie County's median household income ranks highest among all Kansas counties profiled here and significantly surpasses the state average of $64,428. The county's per capita income of $37,341 also tops peers, demonstrating broad-based economic strength across the population.

Far ahead of surrounding counties

Pottawatomie County earns $20,000 to $34,000 more than adjacent counties like Riley, Geary, and Wabaunsee, reflecting its unique economic positioning. This income advantage stems largely from military presence and related employment opportunities unavailable to neighbors.

Strong income supports higher costs

While Pottawatomie's rent-to-income ratio of 13.8% remains healthy, median home values of $223,000 represent the highest in this group and reflect elevated local costs. Higher incomes align well with these expenses, maintaining affordability for homebuyers despite rapid property appreciation.

Advanced wealth strategies for leaders

Pottawatomie County's above-average incomes create opportunities for aggressive wealth building through diversified investments and real estate. Consult a fee-only financial planner about tax-advantaged strategies, investment portfolios, and long-term wealth accumulation suitable for your higher income bracket.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pottawatomie County

via CrimeByCounty

High Marks for Pottawatomie County Safety

The total crime rate in Pottawatomie County is 934.0 per 100K, far below the national average of 2,385.5. These low figures result in a high safety score of 98.5.

Secure Standing Within the State

Pottawatomie’s safety score of 98.5 beats the Kansas average of 98.0 across its six reporting agencies. This consistent reporting provides a reliable picture of a very safe county.

Competitive Safety Among Kansas Neighbors

Pottawatomie’s crime rate of 934.0 per 100K is nearly identical to Republic County’s 917.6. Both counties represent the high standard of public safety found in this part of Kansas.

The Property and Violent Crime Split

Property crime accounts for 816.3 incidents per 100K, while violent crime is very low at 117.7. The vast majority of police activity involves non-violent property disputes and thefts.

Focusing on Home and Property Security

Since property crime is the primary risk, installing security cameras can provide peace of mind. Consistent use of alarm systems helps keep Pottawatomie County's property crime rates on the decline.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pottawatomie County

via HealthByCounty

Pottawatomie residents live longest in region

At 78.7 years, Pottawatomie County's life expectancy tops the U.S. average of 75.4 years by over 3 years—a significant advantage. Just 12.8% report poor or fair health, the lowest rate among peer counties, reflecting strong overall wellness.

Kansas's healthiest county by longevity

Pottawatomie County's 78.7-year life expectancy far exceeds Kansas's state average of 75.4 years, and its 7.5% uninsured rate is the lowest statewide compared to 11.5%. This county is a health leader within Kansas.

Good access, but mental health lag

Pottawatomie County maintains 74 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, adequate for a rural county. However, mental health provider availability at 38 per 100,000 lags most neighbors, creating a gap in behavioral health access.

Nearly all Pottawatomie residents insured

With only 7.5% uninsured, Pottawatomie County achieves near-universal coverage—the best in the region. Residents enjoy broad access to primary care, though those needing mental health services may face longer wait times or limited local options.

Stay covered with regular enrollment checks

If you're among Pottawatomie County's uninsured 7.5%, healthcare.gov offers enrollment year-round, and Kansas Medicaid covers eligible families. Review your coverage annually to maintain the health security your neighbors enjoy.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pottawatomie County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Education Systems Near Manhattan

Pottawatomie County maintains a robust educational infrastructure with 15 public schools and 4,256 students. Four districts manage this network, which includes eight elementary schools and five high schools. The county provides a wide range of options for families living in both rural and growing town corridors.

Exceptional Graduation and Academic Success

The county achieves a standout graduation rate of 94.4%, far exceeding the national average of 87.0%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $8,843, which is slightly below the state average, the county earns a high school score of 59.8. This indicates high efficiency and strong academic outcomes for the local student body.

Wamego and Rock Creek Drive Growth

Wamego is the largest district, serving 1,641 students across five schools, followed closely by Rock Creek with 1,346 students. These two districts represent the bulk of the county's enrollment and offer comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs. There are no charter schools in the county, reflecting a community committed to traditional public districts.

Active Town Hubs and Quiet Rural Schools

With an average school size of 284 students, Pottawatomie offers a more bustling environment than many neighboring counties. Wamego High is the largest school with 507 students, while eight rural and seven town-based campuses provide diverse settings. This variety allows families to choose between larger town schools and smaller, community-centered rural locations.

Invest in a County Committed to Excellence

With graduation rates near 95%, Pottawatomie County is a premier choice for families prioritizing secondary education success. Homes in the Wamego and Rock Creek districts are particularly sought after for their proximity to high-performing schools. Make school quality the cornerstone of your home search in this thriving region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pottawatomie County

via RiskByCounty

Pottawatomie sits at very low national risk

With a composite risk score of 30.88, Pottawatomie County ranks just slightly above Kansas's state average of 29.89 and earns a Very Low national risk rating. The county's overall disaster exposure remains lower than the typical U.S. county.

Middle-of-road Kansas county for hazards

Pottawatomie ranks near the state average among Kansas counties, with wildfire risk driving much of its exposure at a notable 90.74. This wildfire score significantly outpaces the county's other hazard exposures, making vegetation management a critical local concern.

Wildfire threat stands out in the region

Pottawatomie's composite risk of 30.88 is nearly identical to nearby Pawnee County (31.62), but its wildfire score of 90.74 is substantially higher than both Pawnee's (55.12) and Rawlins's (36.77). This reflects unique local wildfire vulnerability in the county.

Wildfire dominates; tornado threat is real

Wildfire risk is exceptional at 90.74, making it the county's dominant hazard concern and well above state norms. Tornado exposure is also notable at 57.47, while flood risk remains moderate at 33.97.

Wildfire preparedness is essential here

Pottawatomie residents must prioritize wildfire insurance coverage and invest in defensible space—removing trees and brush within 100 feet of structures. Ensure your policy includes coverage for wind damage from tornadoes and review your roof and siding materials for fire resistance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pottawatomie County

via WeatherByCounty

A humid continental climate profile

Pottawatomie County averages 54.5°F annually, very close to the standard national median. Its 34.4 inches of precipitation makes it wetter than many interior western counties.

One of the state's wetter regions

While the 54.5°F average temp matches the Kansas state average of 54.8°F, the rainfall is distinct. The county receives 34.4 inches of precipitation, well above the state average of 30.3 inches.

More rain than western neighbors

Pottawatomie receives 12.6 inches more annual precipitation than Rawlins County in the west. It also enjoys a milder summer heat profile, with 49 extreme heat days compared to 68 in Pawnee.

Balanced seasons with high precipitation

July averages 79.0°F, but the 34.4 inches of rain helps keep the landscape greener than western Kansas. Winters remain cold, with a January average of 28.5°F and 15.7 inches of snow.

Manage moisture and moderate heat

With 34.4 inches of rain, drainage and gutter maintenance are essential for local property owners. The county's 49 days of 90°F+ heat are frequent, but fewer than the Kansas average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pottawatomie County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced Soils in Pottawatomie

Pottawatomie County features an average pH of 6.73, which is almost perfectly aligned with the Kansas state average of 6.80. This near-ideal level is just above the national median of 6.5, making it suitable for a diverse range of plant life. These soils provide an excellent chemical baseline for high agricultural productivity.

Silty Loam Characteristics

With a composition of 51.1% silt, 26.0% sand, and 22.9% clay, these soils offer a high-quality structure. The significant silt and clay portions provide excellent nutrient cation exchange sites. This mixture prevents the rapid leaching of fertilizers, keeping nutrients available for crop uptake.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

The county boasts an organic matter content of 2.47%, significantly higher than both the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 2.22%. Available water capacity also exceeds the state norm at 0.184 in/in. These metrics explain the county's strong soil score of 62.5, which is well above the Kansas average.

Effective Moisture Management

Regional drainage class data is unavailable, but the high soil score suggests efficient natural processes. The combination of high organic matter and balanced silt helps manage moisture levels effectively across varying topographies. These soils generally provide stable foundations for both agriculture and construction.

Premium Growth in Zone 6a

Pottawatomie County's Zone 6a climate and high-quality soil make it a premier location for fruit trees and vegetables. The superior organic matter levels provide a natural boost for any garden or farm plot. It is a fantastic environment to start a hobby farm or expand a commercial operation.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pottawatomie County

via LawnByCounty

Pottawatomie Leads the Way in Lawn Success

With a lawn difficulty score of 61.3, Pottawatomie County is one of the easier places in Kansas to grow grass, surpassing the state average of 59.1. The Zone 6a climate here provides a more favorable balance of rain and temperature than many neighboring counties. This makes it a prime location for lush, green landscapes.

Ideal Rainfall and Manageable Heat

The county receives 34.4 inches of annual precipitation, which falls perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range for lawn health. Extreme heat is less of a factor here, with only 49 days over 90°F compared to the Kansas average of 58. This cooler profile during the 4,040 growing degree days allows grasses to stay green longer with less supplemental water.

Excellent Soil for Turf Growth

The soil pH sits at a healthy 6.73, which is right in the sweet spot for maximizing nutrient availability to your grass. The composition of 22.9% clay and 26.0% sand suggests a fertile soil structure that retains moisture and nutrients effectively. While drainage class data is unavailable, these percentages generally support robust root development.

Monitoring Moisture During Dry Years

Despite having 25 weeks of drought in the past year, current conditions are relatively stable with only 26.3% of the area being abnormally dry. The ample annual rainfall helps lawns recover quickly from stress, but smart irrigation remains important during the peak of summer. Utilizing rain barrels can help capture the county's generous precipitation for garden use.

Starting Your Zone 6a Lawn

The local climate is well-suited for Tall Fescue or a Kentucky Bluegrass mix. Aim to get your seeds in the ground after the April 18 frost or during the late summer before the October 19 frost. With the first fall frost coming in mid-October, early September is the goldilocks zone for establishing new turf.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pottawatomie County's county score?
Pottawatomie County, Kansas has a composite county score of 55.5 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 Pottawatomie County rank among counties in Kansas?
Pottawatomie County ranks #32 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 Pottawatomie County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Pottawatomie County is $2,475, with an effective tax rate of 1.11%. This earns Pottawatomie County a tax score of 30.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pottawatomie County?
The median household income in Pottawatomie County, Kansas is $87,694 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pottawatomie County earns an income score of 90.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pottawatomie County, Kansas a good place to live?
Pottawatomie County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Pottawatomie 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 Pottawatomie 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.