countyscore
34.7
County Score
Soil Quality 71.2Health 66.1Water Quality 65.6

County Report Card

About Riley County, Kansas

Falling Behind the National Median

Riley County holds a composite score of 34.7, trailing significantly behind the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in the lower third of jurisdictions nationwide, indicating a need for improvement in several livability metrics.

Underperforming the Kansas State Average

Compared to the Kansas state average composite score of 49.5, Riley County lags by nearly 15 points. It struggles to compete with peer counties across the state in terms of overall value and affordability.

Strong Health and Water Infrastructure

Health services and water quality are the county's primary bright spots, with scores of 66.1 and 65.6 respectively. These figures suggest a robust local healthcare system and reliable public utilities for residents.

Significant Tax and Housing Cost Burdens

The county faces stiff challenges in affordability, evidenced by a low tax score of 15.9 and a cost score of 19.9. With an effective tax rate of 1.435% and median rents at $1,065, residents face higher financial pressures than neighboring areas.

Best for Health-Conscious Professionals

This county is a strong fit for individuals who prioritize access to medical care and clean infrastructure over low taxes. Families may appreciate the amenities, provided they can manage the higher-than-average Kansas living costs.

Score breakdown

Tax15.9Cost19.9Safety30.7Health66.1Schools35.5Income37.7Risk41.6Water65.6Weather46.9
🏛15.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼37.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡30.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓35.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡41.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧65.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.4
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

Riley County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Riley County

via TaxByCounty

Riley County taxes above national average

Riley County's effective tax rate of 1.435% sits comfortably above the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the upper half of U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay a median of $3,317 annually—22% more than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both higher local rates and stronger property values.

Ranked 8th highest in Kansas

At 1.435%, Riley County's effective rate exceeds the Kansas state average of 1.549%, though it ranks 8th among the state's counties. The median tax of $3,317 is notably higher than the state median of $1,943, driven by a median home value of $231,200.

Higher taxes than central Kansas peers

Riley County residents pay substantially more than comparable rural counties nearby: Saline County at 1.328% and Russell County at 1.751% of median home value. Only Scott County in the immediate region approaches Riley's effective rate at 1.532%.

Expect $3,317 in annual property tax

On a median home valued at $231,200, Riley County homeowners pay approximately $3,317 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure can reach $3,480 when accounting for escrow and county adjustments.

Many Riley County homes may be overassessed

Property assessments don't always reflect market reality, and homeowners who believe their home is overvalued can file a formal appeal with the county assessor. Taking 20 minutes to review your assessment could save you hundreds annually if you're successful.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Riley County

via CostByCounty

Riley rents strain local budgets

Riley County renters spend 21.5% of their income on housing, nearly 50% higher than the U.S. average of 14.6%. This gap reflects Riley's median household income of $59,560—about $15,000 below the national median of $74,755—paired with rents averaging $1,065 per month.

Among Kansas's least affordable

Riley County ranks as one of Kansas's least affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 21.5% compared to the state average of 14.7%. Despite this challenge, Riley's median rent of $1,065 sits well above Kansas's typical $787, reflecting the county's proximity to Manhattan and its college-town economy.

Pricier than neighboring counties

Riley County's rents exceed those of surrounding rural counties—$1,065 versus $679 in Rooks County and $700 in Rush County—yet residents earn only modestly more. This rent premium reflects Riley's position as a regional hub with Kansas State University, driving demand and costs upward.

Where Riley incomes go

A household earning Riley's median $59,560 annually spends roughly $12,894 on rent yearly, leaving $46,666 for all other expenses. Homeowners face similar pressure, with median monthly mortgage costs of $1,238 consuming 24.9% of household income—well above the sustainable 28% threshold.

Is Riley right for you?

If you're relocating and can work remotely, Riley offers vibrant college-town amenities and a university job market, but budget for higher housing costs than rural Kansas neighbors. Renters should plan for rents near $1,100; homebuyers will find median values around $231,200, requiring strong dual incomes for comfort.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Riley County

via IncomeByCounty

Riley County Lags Behind National Earnings

Riley County's median household income of $59,560 falls $15,195 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. This 20% gap reflects economic conditions that many rural and college-town communities across America share. Despite this gap, Riley County's per capita income of $34,583 closely tracks the state average of $34,748.

Middle Tier in Kansas Earnings Rankings

Riley County's median household income of $59,560 sits below Kansas's state average of $64,428, placing it in the middle ranks among the state's 105 counties. The county's economic profile reflects its position as home to Kansas State University, which supports professional and service-sector employment. This blended economy creates income diversity but doesn't match the state average.

Comparable to Regional Peer Counties

Riley County's $59,560 median income sits slightly below neighboring Saline County ($63,316) and Pottawatomie County, but comfortably ahead of Russell County ($53,902). The county's rent-to-income ratio of 21.5% is notably higher than rural neighbors like Rooks County (13.2%), reflecting stronger housing demand near the university. This trade-off means renters here face tighter budgets despite similar overall household earnings.

Housing Costs Squeeze Local Budgets

At a rent-to-income ratio of 21.5%, Riley County renters dedicate more than one-fifth of gross income to housing—above the 30% affordability threshold and considerably higher than state peers. The median home value of $231,200 remains accessible to buyers with steady incomes, but combined with rental pressures, housing consumes an outsized share of household budgets. Financial planning here must prioritize housing costs and build emergency savings accordingly.

Strategic Savings Close the Wealth Gap

Riley County households earning $59,560 should prioritize debt reduction and building an emergency fund equal to 6-9 months of expenses, given tighter housing affordability. Consider tax-advantaged retirement accounts (401k, IRA) to reduce taxable income while building long-term wealth—every dollar invested compounds significantly over decades. With university presence driving professional development, investing in skills and credentials can unlock higher income tiers over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Riley County

via CrimeByCounty

Riley County Outpaces National Safety Standards

Riley County maintains a robust safety score of 97.4, significantly higher than many parts of the country. Its total crime rate of 1,642.0 per 100K is well below the national average of 2,385.5.

A Competitive Safety Profile in Kansas

The county's safety score of 97.4 sits just below the Kansas state average of 98.0. While the local crime rate is slightly higher than the state average of 1,282.2, Riley County remains a secure regional hub.

Comparing Riley to Regional Neighbors

Riley County shows higher crime activity than rural Rooks County but is significantly safer than urban Saline County. Its 1,642.0 crime rate offers a middle ground for residents seeking a balance of amenities and security.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crime accounts for 1,368.8 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 273.2. Both figures stay below national benchmarks, suggesting most local incidents are non-violent in nature.

Staying Vigilant in Riley County

Since property crime is the primary concern, residents should focus on home security basics. Installing motion-activated lighting and locking all entry points can further reduce these already low numbers.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Riley County

via HealthByCounty

Riley County lives longer than most

At 79.7 years, Riley County residents live significantly longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Only 17.4% report poor or fair health, a rate well below the national median. This advantage positions Riley among the healthiest counties in its state.

A top performer in Kansas

Riley County's 79.7-year life expectancy exceeds Kansas's state average of 75.4 years by 4.3 years. This 4-year gap reflects Riley's superior health outcomes across most major metrics. The county ranks in the upper tier statewide for longevity and overall health status.

Outpacing surrounding regions

Riley County's residents live 4-7 years longer than those in adjacent Rush, Russell, and Saline counties. The county's 17.4% poor/fair health rate is among the lowest in the region, compared to 16.2% in Rush and Saline. This advantage reflects both better healthcare access and healthier population demographics.

Strong healthcare access and coverage

At 10.2%, Riley County's uninsured rate sits below the state average of 11.5%, ensuring more residents have care access. The county boasts 69 primary care providers and 346 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—exceptional mental health support. This robust infrastructure translates to shorter wait times and more treatment options for residents.

Keep your coverage strong

Riley County's lower uninsured rate shows what good coverage looks like, but 10.2% of residents still lack insurance. If you're uninsured or nearing a coverage change, check your eligibility for marketplace plans at Healthcare.gov or contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Your health depends on it.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Riley County

via SchoolsByCounty

A robust educational hub in Riley County

The county manages 18 public schools across two districts, serving a total of 7,863 students. This infrastructure includes 11 elementary schools, three middle schools, and three high schools to support a growing population.

High local investment despite graduation challenges

Riley County's 83.4% graduation rate currently trails the Kansas state average of 88.7% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure sits at $7,533, which is lower than the state's $9,009 average, though the county maintains a school score of 51.2.

Manhattan-Ogden leads the local education scene

The Manhattan-Ogden district dominates the landscape, operating 14 schools and educating 7,066 students. No charter schools currently operate in the county, meaning public education is exclusively managed through traditional district channels.

Urban settings meet mid-sized school environments

Twelve of the county's 18 schools are located in city locales, contributing to an average school size of 437 students. While Manhattan High School West/East Campus serves 1,954 students, the Riley County Grade School offers a smaller environment with 504 students.

Educational variety for Riley County homebuyers

Families looking to settle near Manhattan's diverse city schools or Riley's rural campuses should factor these distinct environments into their search. Exploring homes in these districts ensures proximity to the county's primary educational resources.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Riley County

via RiskByCounty

Riley County's risk exceeds national average

Riley County scores 58.46 on the composite risk scale, nearly double the national median and placing it in the "Relatively Low" category. This elevation stems primarily from wildfire and tornado threats that significantly outpace typical U.S. county profiles.

Among Kansas's most hazardous counties

At 58.46, Riley County's composite risk score nearly doubles the Kansas state average of 29.89, ranking it among the highest-risk counties in the state. This gap reflects the county's exposure to multiple severe weather phenomena.

Riley stands out in its region

Riley County's 58.46 risk score substantially exceeds nearby Russell County (12.53) and Saline County's wildfire-tornado combination, though Saline County rivals it at 66.16. Riley's wildfire risk of 89.54 is notably higher than regional neighbors, making it a regional outlier.

Wildfires and tornadoes dominate here

Wildfire risk reaches 89.54 and tornado risk hits 84.29 in Riley County—both extreme threats that can develop rapidly across the county's terrain. Flood risk, at 59.86, presents a secondary concern during heavy precipitation events.

Prioritize wildfire and tornado coverage

Homeowners should ensure comprehensive coverage for wildfire damage, including ember damage and defensible space insurance, given the 89.54 wildfire risk. Add tornado/wind coverage to your policy and maintain a disaster preparedness kit, as the 84.29 tornado risk is substantial.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Riley County

via WeatherByCounty

Riley County aligns with the continental median

Riley County maintains an annual average temperature of 54.6°F, placing it squarely in a humid continental climate zone. This temperature closely tracks the national median, offering a traditional four-season experience.

A wet and temperate Kansas standard

The county's 54.6°F average is nearly identical to the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. However, Riley is significantly wetter than the rest of the state, receiving 33.1 inches of annual precipitation compared to the 30.3-inch state benchmark.

The humid edge of the Flint Hills

Riley County is wetter than its western neighbor, Russell County, which receives only 26.0 inches of rain. While temperature profiles remain similar across the region, Riley's proximity to eastern moisture sources increases its annual humidity.

Deep freezes followed by intense summer sun

Residents face 53 days per year with temperatures reaching at least 90°F during the 79.2°F July peaks. Winters are brisk but manageable, averaging 31.6°F with roughly 15.9 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for humidity and moderate snow

The combination of high summer humidity and nearly 16 inches of snow requires versatile HVAC systems and reliable de-icing tools. Plan for lush spring growth due to the higher-than-average 33.1 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Riley County

via SoilByCounty

Riley County’s Near-Perfect pH Balance

Riley County features an average pH of 6.65, which sits remarkably close to the national median of 6.5. This slightly acidic to neutral profile is lower than the Kansas state average of 6.80. While specific taxonomic data is currently limited, the soil score of 71.2 indicates a highly productive landscape for the region.

A Silty Foundation for Flint Hills Farming

The soil contains 57.9% silt and 25.5% clay, providing excellent nutrient retention and structure. With only 16.6% sand, these fields remain workable while holding the moisture necessary for consistent yields. This mix creates a stable environment for both root development and industrial land use.

Superior Organic Matter and Water Storage

Riley County boasts an organic matter content of 2.60%, surpassing both the national average of 2.0% and the Kansas average of 2.22%. Its available water capacity of 0.197 in/in also beats the state benchmark of 0.180 in/in. These figures suggest a naturally fertile soil that resists drought effectively.

Deep Resources in Undefined Hydrology

While specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not recorded in this dataset, the county’s high overall soil score suggests reliable water management. Farmers and builders should verify local conditions, as the high silt content usually implies moderate permeability. The lack of specific classification reflects a need for site-specific testing before major projects.

Flourishing Gardens in Hardiness Zone 6b

Sitting in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, Riley County is ideal for growing native tallgrass species and hardy vegetables like tomatoes or peppers. The combination of high organic matter and balanced pH makes it a gardener's dream. Start a backyard plot today to take advantage of some of the best soil in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Riley County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Lawn Success in Riley County

Riley County earns a lawn difficulty score of 55.4, placing it above the national median of 50.0 but slightly behind the Kansas state average of 59.1. Homeowners in this USDA Hardiness Zone 6b region face moderate challenges that require steady maintenance to achieve a lush landscape.

Steady Rain Supports Growing Degree Days

The county receives 33.1 inches of annual precipitation, which sits comfortably within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy grass. With 4,060 growing degree days and 53 extreme heat days, you must manage irrigation carefully during the peak summer months to avoid heat stress.

Naturally Ideal Soil pH for Grass

The local soil features a pH of 6.65, which falls perfectly within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for nutrient uptake. Because the soil contains 25.5% clay, core aeration is recommended to prevent compaction and ensure deep root penetration.

Managing Persistent Dry Spells

Riley County experienced 36 weeks in drought over the last year, even though current D0 and D2+ levels are at 0%. Maintaining a tall mowing height of 3.5 to 4 inches helps shade the soil and retain moisture during these frequent dry cycles.

Start Seeding After the Spring Frost

The last spring frost typically hits on April 21, signaling the best time to begin your lawn projects. Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are excellent choices for Zone 6b to handle the transition between cold winters and hot Kansas summers.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Riley County's county score?
Riley 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 Riley County rank among counties in Kansas?
Riley County ranks #98 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 Riley County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Riley County is $3,317, with an effective tax rate of 1.43%. This earns Riley County a tax score of 15.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Riley County?
The median household income in Riley County, Kansas is $59,560 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Riley County earns an income score of 37.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Riley County, Kansas a good place to live?
Riley County scores 34.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #98 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Riley 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 Riley 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.