countyscore
34.7
County Score
Lawn Care 60.1Schools 54.5Health 53.8

County Report Card

About Reno County, Kansas

Facing Significant Local Hurdles

Reno County's composite score of 34.7 is well below the national median of 50.0. This indicates several systemic areas that require focused improvement.

Trailing the State Average

The county falls behind the Kansas average of 49.5, struggling to match the scores of its neighbors. It faces challenges that impact its overall livability ranking.

Foundation in Schools and Health

Education and health remain bright spots, with scores of 54.5 and 53.8 respectively. These sectors provide essential services to the local population of over 60,000.

Safety and Environmental Risks

Low scores in Safety (19.0) and Risk (19.9) are the primary drivers of the county's ranking. Taxes also remain a concern, with a score of 6.3 based on current rates.

Suited for Local Professionals

Reno County is best for those with established local ties or careers in its stable education and health sectors. It offers an affordable median home value of $125,000 for those committed to the area.

Score breakdown

Tax6.3Cost44.8Safety19Health53.8Schools54.5Income40.7Risk19.9Water15.8Weather48.4
🏛6.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠44.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼40.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡19.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧15.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨49.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.1
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

Rice County
Kansas
54.7
Kingman County
Kansas
48.9
Sedgwick County
Kansas
29.9
Stafford County
Kansas
56.4
McPherson County
Kansas
49.6
Pratt County
Kansas
46.8
Harvey County
Kansas
40.2
Barton County
Kansas
42.2

Deep Dives

Reno County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Reno County

via TaxByCounty

Reno's rate outpaces national median

Reno County's effective tax rate of 1.744% runs 195 basis points above the national median of 1.549%, placing residents in the 60th percentile for property tax burden nationwide. This means most American homeowners enjoy lower effective tax rates than Reno county residents.

Upper-middle tier among Kansas counties

At 1.744%, Reno County sits 0.195 percentage points above the Kansas state average of 1.549%, ranking in the upper third of these eight counties. The median property tax of $2,180 exceeds the statewide median of $1,943 by $237.

Competitive with regional neighbors

Reno's 1.744% rate runs lower than Pratt County (1.763%) but higher than Rawlins County (1.661%) and Rice County (1.551%). Among south-central Kansas counties, Reno occupies the moderate-to-higher range.

What homeowners pay annually

A typical Reno County home valued at $125,000 generates approximately $2,180 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,381; without one, it drops to $1,844.

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 Reno County

via CostByCounty

Reno faces the tightest affordability squeeze

Reno County residents spend 17.0% of their $60,498 median household income on rent—the highest ratio in this analysis and well above Kansas's state average of 14.7%. While still below the national 30% affordability threshold, the strain is more acute here than in neighboring counties, particularly given incomes that trail the national median by 19%.

Least affordable county in this analysis

Reno County ranks as the least affordable housing market among the eight counties examined, with a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio that significantly exceeds the state average. Its $857 monthly rent and $60,498 median income create the tightest housing-cost burden in the region.

Higher costs, lower incomes than peers

Reno County's $857 rent and $907 owner costs exceed most neighbors despite having the region's lowest median household income of $60,498. This combination makes Reno the most cost-strained county in the comparison, outpaced only by higher-income Pottawatomie.

Housing dominates household budgets

Reno County renters dedicate $857 monthly (17% of income) to housing while homeowners pay $907, consuming a disproportionate share of already-tight budgets. With a median home value of $125,000, homeownership offers modest equity-building potential but significant financial commitment.

Seek opportunities elsewhere if affordable housing matters

If housing affordability is central to your relocation decision, Reno County's 17% rent-to-income ratio signals tighter finances than neighboring counties like Phillips or Republic. Consider higher-income markets or lower-cost alternatives before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Reno County

via IncomeByCounty

Reno significantly lags national income

Reno County's median household income of $60,498 falls roughly $14,250 short of the national median of $74,755, marking one of the larger gaps in this group. This reflects broader economic challenges in south-central Kansas and the decline of traditional agricultural employment.

Below-average county in Kansas

Reno County ranks below Kansas's median household income of $64,428, placing it in the lower half of the state's counties. Per capita income of $32,203 significantly trails the state average of $34,748, suggesting wealth is less evenly distributed than statewide.

Among the lower earners in region

At $60,498, Reno County ranks near the bottom of this comparison group, surpassing only Republic County ($53,611). Nearby counties like Rice ($63,947), Pawnee ($63,625), and Rawlins ($65,000) all earn more, highlighting Reno's economic challenges.

Housing strains household budgets

Reno County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% represents the highest burden in this group, approaching concerning levels for household budgets. Median home values of $125,000 exceed annual household income, suggesting homeownership requires careful financial planning or significant savings accumulation.

Strategic budgeting enables progress

Reno County residents must prioritize budgeting given elevated housing costs, but wealth building remains possible through disciplined saving. Explore down payment assistance programs for homeownership, maximize employer retirement contributions, and consider a second income source to accelerate financial goals.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Reno County

via CrimeByCounty

Reno County Approaches National Crime Averages

Reno County's total crime rate of 2,123.4 per 100K is much closer to the national average of 2,385.5 than its neighbors. It maintains a safety score of 96.6 out of 100.

Safety Levels Below State Average

The safety score of 96.6 falls below the Kansas state average of 98.0. Seven reporting agencies contribute to this data, indicating a complex public safety environment.

Reno County Faces Higher Local Risks

At 2,123.4 per 100K, Reno County's crime rate is significantly higher than Rice County's 826.2. This makes Reno a regional outlier for criminal activity in this part of Kansas.

High Property Crime Impacts Residents

Property crime is high at 1,748.5 per 100K, while violent crime is 374.9. The risk of theft or burglary is the primary safety concern for local households.

Increasing Your Home Security

Given the higher property crime rates, professional alarm systems and security cameras are highly recommended. Staying connected with neighborhood watch programs adds a vital layer of protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Reno County

via HealthByCounty

Reno falls slightly short nationally

Reno County residents live to 75.3 years, just below the U.S. average of 75.4 years. At 17.0%, the poor or fair health rate is among the highest in the region, signaling significant wellness challenges.

Below-state-average life expectancy

Reno County's 75.3-year life expectancy trails Kansas's state average of 75.4 years, and its 10.1% uninsured rate beats the state average of 11.5%. While coverage is relatively good, health outcomes lag statewide.

Moderate access to care providers

Reno County has 59 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 218 mental health providers per 100,000. While mental health access is above-average, primary care supply could better serve the county's health needs.

One in ten Reno residents uninsured

With 10.1% uninsured, Reno County's coverage rate is better than state average, yet 1 in 10 residents lack protection. The county's high poor/fair health rate suggests chronic disease burden and ongoing wellness challenges despite available provider access.

Take action to improve health security

If you're uninsured in Reno County, healthcare.gov and Kansas Medicaid provide enrollment pathways available year-round. Getting covered opens doors to preventive care that can improve the county's overall wellness trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Reno County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive and Diverse Educational Network

Reno County features one of the largest school systems in the region, with 32 public schools serving 9,020 students. The infrastructure is broad, including 14 elementary schools, six middle schools, and six high schools. Six different districts work together to provide a comprehensive range of educational opportunities.

Strong Graduation Success on a Lean Budget

Reno County's graduation rate of 88.8% aligns perfectly with the Kansas state average and exceeds national benchmarks. This is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $8,128, which is lower than the state average of $9,009. The county maintains a school score of 55.3, demonstrating efficient use of educational funding.

Hutchinson and Buhler Lead the Region

Hutchinson Public Schools is the largest district, managing 11 schools and 4,006 students. Buhler follows with 2,543 students across seven schools, while Haven Public Schools serves nearly 800 learners. The county also hosts one charter school, representing about 3% of the total local school offerings.

Urban Hubs and Rural Outposts

The county offers a diverse mix of 17 rural and 15 town school locales, with an average school size of 291 students. Hutchinson High School is a major regional hub with 1,299 students, while several smaller rural schools offer more intimate settings. This variety allows families to choose between large-scale collegiate-style high schools and smaller community campuses.

Diverse Living Options Near Top Schools

Whether you prefer the bustle of Hutchinson or the quiet of the Buhler district, Reno County offers homes to suit every lifestyle. The high graduation rates and wide range of school types make this a prime location for families. Use the district's diverse locale offerings to find the perfect neighborhood for your family's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Reno County

via RiskByCounty

Reno County faces the state's highest risk

Reno County's composite risk score of 80.15 far exceeds Kansas's state average of 29.89, making it the most disaster-exposed county in the state and placing it in the Relatively Low national category. The county faces significantly higher natural hazard exposure than typical U.S. regions.

Kansas's most hazardous county overall

Reno County ranks first in Kansas for composite disaster risk, with tornado (93.26), wildfire (95.55), and flood (70.93) scores that dominate the state landscape. No Kansas county exceeds Reno's combined exposure to these major perils.

Substantially riskier than all neighbors

Reno's composite score of 80.15 is nearly 26 points higher than Pratt County (54.83), the next-highest neighbor, and more than double that of Pawnee (31.62) or Rice (28.53). The county stands alone as a high-risk zone in western Kansas.

Wildfire, tornado, and flood converge

Reno faces an exceptional three-part hazard profile: wildfire at 95.55, tornado at 93.26, and flood at 70.93—the highest scores in Kansas for each. This triple threat makes Reno County one of the nation's more disaster-prone regions.

Comprehensive coverage is critical here

Reno County residents must secure full homeowners insurance including separate flood and wildfire coverage, along with a reinforced storm shelter or safe room. Implement aggressive defensible space management around your property and ensure your roof, siding, and foundation can withstand high winds and flooding.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Reno County

via WeatherByCounty

Well above the national average

Reno County averages 55.9°F annually, making it one of the warmer regions in the central United States. Its 30.1 inches of precipitation aligns perfectly with typical continental expectations.

Warmer than the Kansas average

The county's 55.9°F average is higher than the state average of 54.8°F. Reno receives 30.1 inches of precipitation, matching the Kansas state average of 30.3 inches almost exactly.

Leading the region in heat

Reno is warmer than neighboring Rice County, which averages 55.5°F. It also receives much less snow than western counties, recording only 9.2 inches compared to 27.1 in Rawlins.

Hot summers and low snowfall

The July average hits 80.3°F, driving 65 extreme heat days each year. Winters are relatively dry and mild, with only 9.2 inches of annual snowfall and a 31.5°F January average.

Focus on summer cooling systems

With 65 days over 90°F, cooling costs will be a major part of any household budget. The low snowfall of 9.2 inches means less winter maintenance than in the northern parts of the state.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Reno County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic Soils in Reno

Reno County's soil has an average pH of 6.31, making it more acidic than the state average of 6.80 and the national median of 6.5. This slight acidity is generally beneficial for many ornamental plants and certain vegetables. However, some traditional field crops may require lime applications to maximize yield.

Coarse Texture and High Sand

The soil is quite sandy at 50.7%, mixed with 33.6% silt and 15.8% clay. This composition ensures that the soil is light and easy to till, providing great aeration for plant roots. The trade-off is that sandy soils generally hold onto less water and fewer nutrients than silty ones.

Moisture and Organic Matter Needs

Organic matter is recorded at 1.68%, falling below the state average of 2.22%. Similarly, the available water capacity of 0.159 in/in is lower than the Kansas average of 0.180. With a soil score of 49.1, these lands benefit significantly from the addition of compost and careful irrigation.

Rapid Infiltration Rates

While specific drainage class data is not provided, the 50.7% sand content suggests very rapid drainage. This prevents waterlogging even during heavy downpours but can lead to quick drying in the wind. Gardeners should consider mulching heavily to keep the soil temperature down and moisture in.

Thriving in Zone 6b

Reno County sits in Zone 6b, a region that supports everything from tomatoes to sweet potatoes. The sandy soil is particularly well-suited for root vegetables, which encounter less resistance as they grow. It is a great place to start an early-season garden that drains quickly after spring rains.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Reno County

via LawnByCounty

Ideal Performance in the Heart of Kansas

Reno County's lawn difficulty score of 60.1 indicates a favorable environment that outperforms both the state and national averages. Located in Zone 6b, it offers a reliable climate for established lawns to thrive with standard care. It is an excellent region for homeowners who want a healthy, vibrant yard.

Ample Rainfall Meets Summer Heat

The county receives 30.1 inches of rain annually, hitting the bottom edge of the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health. However, with 65 extreme heat days, the turf must endure significantly more 90°F+ weather than the state average. The 4,270 growing degree days mean a long, active season that requires consistent mowing and watering.

Acidity and Sand in the Soil Mix

Reno County soil is slightly acidic with a pH of 6.31, which is within the ideal window for most grass species. The soil composition is notably sandy at 50.7%, paired with 15.8% clay. While this ensures the ground won't become waterlogged, it does mean that water drains quickly and nutrients may need more frequent replenishment.

Strong Resilience Against Dry Cycles

Only 8.4% of Reno County is currently abnormally dry, following 11 weeks of drought over the last year. The high sand content makes the lawn sensitive to brief dry spells, so monitoring for wilt is key. Deep watering twice a week is typically more effective than daily shallow sprinkling for building heat-resistant roots.

Reliable Planting Windows for Zone 6b

Tall Fescue and Bermuda grass are the top performers for Reno's sandy, warm environment. Plan your seeding after the April 20 frost date to ensure warm enough soil for germination. With the first frost not expected until October 19, there is plenty of time for fall-seeded grass to establish itself.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Reno County's county score?
Reno County, Kansas has a composite county score of 34.7 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 Reno County rank among counties in Kansas?
Reno County ranks #97 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 Reno County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Reno County is $2,180, with an effective tax rate of 1.74%. This earns Reno County a tax score of 6.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Reno County?
The median household income in Reno County, Kansas is $60,498 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Reno County earns an income score of 40.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Reno County, Kansas a good place to live?
Reno County scores 34.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #97 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Reno 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 Reno 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.