countyscore
61.2
County Score
Disaster Risk 93.5Property Tax 88.8Safety 88.4

County Report Card

About Sedgwick County, Colorado

Sedgwick exceeds national livability norm

Sedgwick's composite score of 61.2 ranks above the national median of 50.0, placing it in the top 41% of U.S. counties. Strong safety and low housing costs anchor this respectable performance.

Above average, but room to grow

Sedgwick's score of 61.2 edges past Colorado's 51.2 average, signaling solid overall livability. However, limited data in some dimensions and weak schools prevent it from ranking with the state's leaders.

Safety and affordability shine

Sedgwick boasts exceptional safety (88.4) and true affordability with median rent of $728 and median home value of $142,700—lowest-cost in this group. Risk mitigation scores (93.5) are also exceptional, indicating a secure environment.

Incomes and schools need attention

Income levels are low at $52,833 (20.4 score), and school quality ranks poorly (25.9), making educational advancement challenging. Health outcomes (43.2) and water availability (16.3) also trail state averages significantly.

Ideal for rural, cost-conscious retirees

Sedgwick County appeals to budget-conscious families and retirees prioritizing safe, affordable rural living over urban services and schools. Limited job opportunities and educational resources make it less suitable for families with school-age children or career ambitions.

Score breakdown

Tax88.8Cost68.1Safety88.4Health43.2Schools25.9Income20.4Risk93.5Water16.3Weather33.7
🏛88.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡88.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤43.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓25.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡93.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧16.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤33.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨35.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.5
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

Sedgwick County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sedgwick County

via TaxByCounty

Sedgwick's high rate, low dollar taxes

Sedgwick County's effective tax rate of 0.470% exceeds the Colorado state average of 0.393%, yet its median property tax of $671 falls 75% below the national median of $2,690. This paradox reflects the county's modest home values of just $142,700.

Above-average rate, low absolute taxes

Sedgwick County ranks in the top half of Colorado counties by effective rate at 0.470%, but residents pay only $671 in median annual taxes. This demonstrates how effective rates vary dramatically with property values across Colorado.

Highest rate among rural plains peers

Sedgwick County's 0.470% effective rate exceeds Washington County's 0.408% and Yuma County's 0.475%, positioning it squarely in the higher-tax range for Colorado's eastern plains. Yet all three counties impose modest absolute taxes due to lower home values.

Median annual tax: $671 per year

Sedgwick County's median home value of $142,700 translates to just $671 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more at $788, while those without pay $568—a difference of only $220 annually.

Challenge inflated assessments

Sedgwick County homeowners can appeal property assessments if they believe valuations exceed fair market rates. Given the modest tax burden, many may overlook appeals—but those with property value declines should verify their assessed values.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sedgwick County

via CostByCounty

Sedgwick: Colorado's housing bargain

Sedgwick County offers the state's most affordable housing with a 16.5% rent-to-income ratio—the lowest among Colorado counties and well below the national norm. At just $728 monthly, median rent is 42% cheaper than Colorado's $1,253 average, making this northeast plains county a rare economic refuge.

Colorado's most affordable county

Sedgwick County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio significantly undercuts Colorado's 20.2% state average, securing its position as the state's most housing-friendly county. The $728 median rent and $52,833 median income create a powerful affordability equation unavailable elsewhere in Colorado.

Plains prices dwarf mountain costs

Sedgwick's $728 rent is less than two-thirds what Washington County residents pay ($991) and a quarter of Summit County's $1,851, illustrating the vast plains-to-mountains price divide. Home values mirror this gap: Sedgwick's $142,700 median home value is the lowest in this eight-county set.

Housing takes the smallest bite here

Sedgwick renters spend just $728 monthly on a $52,833 household income, consuming only 16.5% of earnings for shelter—the tightest housing budget ratio in the region. Homeowners pay similarly at $792 monthly, making both paths accessible to households earning the county's modest median.

Stretch your budget farthest here

If affordability is your primary concern, Sedgwick County delivers the most housing for your dollar—$728 rent or a $142,700 home purchase on a $52,833 median income. Rural northeast Colorado life isn't for everyone, but for renters and buyers on tight budgets, no Colorado county offers better arithmetic.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sedgwick County

via IncomeByCounty

Sedgwick trails national earning power

Sedgwick County's median household income of $52,833 falls significantly below the national median of $74,755, a gap of $21,922 that places this rural county among lower-earning U.S. communities. The per capita income of $34,866 also lags the national average, reflecting more limited economic opportunities.

Among Colorado's lowest earners

Sedgwick County ranks in the lower quartile of Colorado's 64 counties with a median household income of $52,833, trailing the state average of $74,792 by nearly $22,000. Its per capita income of $34,866 falls substantially short of Colorado's $43,584 state average.

Most economically challenged in region

Sedgwick's median household income of $52,833 significantly lags neighboring Washington County at $65,164 and Yuma County at $60,051, placing it as the lowest earner among nearby rural counties. The gap widens dramatically when compared to mountain counties like San Juan at $73,889.

Best affordability, limited earning power

Sedgwick's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% represents the strongest housing affordability among these counties, with a median home value of just $142,700. However, the low median income of $52,833 suggests households may struggle with non-housing costs despite housing affordability.

Strategic wealth-building despite income gaps

Sedgwick households earning $52,833 benefit from exceptionally affordable housing that frees capital for saving and investing. Focus on building emergency reserves, exploring employer retirement benefits, and seeking income growth opportunities through education or career development.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sedgwick County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety on the Plains

Sedgwick County achieves a nearly perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 250.9 per 100,000 is a small fraction of the 2,385.5 national benchmark.

State-Leading Security Levels

With a safety score of 99.6, Sedgwick is significantly safer than the average Colorado county score of 97.1. It maintains one of the lowest crime rates recorded in the entire state.

Quiet Safety Compared to Neighbors

Sedgwick's crime rate of 250.9 is much lower than nearby Washington County's rate of 1,370.2. It serves as a peaceful outlier even among other rural agricultural communities.

Zero Violent Crimes Reported

The county reported a violent crime rate of 0.0 in 2022, a rare and impressive statistic. All reported incidents involve property crime, which remains low at 250.9 per 100,000.

Maintaining a Secure Rural Home

In a community with zero reported violent crime, residents can focus on preventing opportunistic theft. Simple perimeter fencing and secure outbuildings are effective ways to protect rural property here.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sedgwick County

via HealthByCounty

Sedgwick faces serious health crisis

Sedgwick County's life expectancy of 73.5 years falls 2.9 years short of the national average of 76.4 years, marking it as one of America's most challenging health communities. Nearly one in five residents—18.5%—report poor or fair health, substantially above the U.S. average of 13%.

Bottom tier in Colorado rankings

Sedgwick's 73.5-year life expectancy lags Colorado's state average of 78.2 years by 4.7 years, among the widest gaps in the state. With 18.5% in poor or fair health—well above Colorado's typical patterns—Sedgwick ranks among the state's most health-challenged counties.

Significant gap vs regional counties

Sedgwick's 73.5-year life expectancy contrasts starkly with nearby Yuma County (79.1 years) and Washington County (74.0 years). The county's 18.5% poor/fair health rate matches only Yuma, suggesting concentrated health challenges across Colorado's eastern plains.

Limited providers, moderate coverage

Sedgwick's 10.2% uninsured rate slightly exceeds Colorado's state average of 9.7%, leaving over 1 in 10 residents vulnerable. With just 43 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and no reported mental health provider data, access to healthcare remains stretched in this rural county.

Urgent: check your coverage status

With limited providers and higher uninsured rates, Sedgwick residents must prioritize health insurance enrollment immediately. Visit connectforhealthco.com or call 1-855-532-8276 to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, and community health resources available to you.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sedgwick County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Education in the Plains

Sedgwick County operates a lean educational system with four total public schools managed by two districts. The county serves a small student body of 345 children through a balanced layout of two elementary and two high schools.

Competitive Graduation Rates on Lean Budgets

The county achieves an 86.0% graduation rate, outperforming the state average of 83.1% despite a low per-pupil expenditure of $6,407. Its composite school score of 50.1 aligns almost perfectly with the Colorado state average of 50.2.

Julesburg and Revere Serve the Region

The Julesburg School District No. Re1 is the larger entity, overseeing three schools with 607 students. There are no charter schools in the county, with all students attending traditional district-run facilities.

Small Classes in a Rural Setting

Schooling here feels deeply personal, as all four campuses are rural with an average size of only 86 students. Julesburg Elementary is the largest school with 124 students, while Revere Junior-Senior High School provides a tiny, focused environment for its 53 students.

Discover Rural Living and Tiny Schools

Sedgwick County offers a rare opportunity for families who value ultra-small school sizes and a rural lifestyle. Use these school performance metrics to guide your home search in this quiet corner of Colorado.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sedgwick County

via RiskByCounty

Sedgwick ranks among America's lowest-risk counties

Sedgwick County's composite score of 6.52 earns a Very Low rating and places it in the safest tier nationally. The county faces minimal exposure to most major natural hazards.

Colorado's lowest-risk county

Sedgwick's 6.52 score is the lowest in Colorado, representing just 16% of the state average of 40.67. No other Colorado county matches its low overall disaster exposure.

Safest county in the northeast plains

Sedgwick outranks all neighboring counties in safety, including Washington County (11.99) and Yuma County (36.80). Its risk profile is exceptionally favorable compared to the broader High Plains region.

Tornadoes pose the biggest local threat

While overall risk is very low, tornado exposure (23.35) is Sedgwick's highest individual hazard score. Wildfire (34.13) and earthquake (14.31) risks remain moderate; flooding is minimal at 3.88.

Standard homeowner's coverage should suffice

Sedgwick's very low risk profile means standard homeowner's insurance typically provides adequate protection. However, renters and homeowners in tornado-prone areas may want to review coverage for wind damage and consider a safe room or shelter plan.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sedgwick County

via WeatherByCounty

Sedgwick runs warmer than most of America

Sedgwick County averages 49.8°F annually, nearly 3°F above the U.S. median of 47°F, placing it in the temperate continental climate zone. The county receives 18.1 inches of precipitation per year, slightly above the national average of 16.5 inches, supporting semi-arid grasslands and agricultural operations.

Warmest county in northeastern Colorado

At 49.8°F, Sedgwick ranks among Colorado's warmest counties—nearly 4°F warmer than the state average of 46.0°F. This elevation advantage makes Sedgwick one of the few Colorado plains counties that rarely experiences extreme cold snaps.

Warmer than Weld, cooler than Yuma

Sedgwick's 49.8°F average places it between neighboring Weld County (48.6°F) and Yuma County (51.3°F), reflecting its position in Colorado's northeast plains corridor. All three counties experience similar extreme heat pressure, with Sedgwick recording 48 days per year above 90°F.

Hot summers, cold winters, steady snow

July temperatures reach 74.7°F while January drops to 27.8°F, a 47-degree annual swing typical of plains climates. Sedgwick receives 26.5 inches of snow annually and logs 48 extreme heat days per year, requiring residents to plan for both seasonal extremes.

Plan cooling for heat, backup for snow

With nearly 50 days of 90°F+ heat, air conditioning and shade are essential infrastructure for Sedgwick residents and businesses. Winter snow averaging 26.5 inches demands reliable heating systems and snow removal capacity, while spring and fall are relatively mild—ideal windows for outdoor work.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sedgwick County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils of the Northeast Plains

Sedgwick County features slightly alkaline soil with an average pH of 7.30. This level sits just above the Colorado average of 7.29 and notably higher than the national median of 6.5. Such pH levels typically require management to ensure micronutrients remain available to crops.

A Sandy and Workable Profile

The soil composition consists of 51.6% sand, 32.2% silt, and 16.2% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent drainage and makes the soil easy to till and work throughout the spring. However, the lower clay content means the soil may require more frequent fertilization to maintain nutrient levels.

Stable Organic Matter and Storage

Organic matter measures 2.13%, which is nearly identical to the Colorado state average of 2.18%. Available water capacity reaches 0.135 in/in, providing a solid foundation for regional grain production. These figures suggest a healthy balance for sustaining plant life during dry spells.

Rapid Infiltration and Permeable Ground

While specific hydrologic classifications are unavailable, the sand-heavy texture suggests rapid water movement through the soil. Builders and gardeners should prepare for high permeability and very low runoff potential. This profile is ideal for deep-rooted crops that can access moisture trapped in the subsoil.

Northeastern Success in Zone 5b

Sitting in hardiness zone 5b, Sedgwick County is ideal for winter wheat, corn, and sugar beets. The well-drained loamy soils provide an excellent environment for a productive home vegetable garden. Start a plot today with hardy perennials or seasonal cool-weather crops.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sedgwick County

via LawnByCounty

Sedgwick Beats the State Average

With a difficulty score of 42.5, Sedgwick County is one of the more hospitable places for lawns in Colorado, surpassing the state average of 37.4. Despite this, the Zone 5b climate is still tougher than the national median of 50.0. Success here relies on managing high summer heat and alkaline soil conditions.

Extreme Heat and High Mowing Needs

The climate is defined by 48 extreme heat days above 90°F, significantly higher than the state average of 27 days. Lawns receive only 18.1 inches of rain annually, meaning heavy irrigation is required to offset the high 2,927 growing degree days. This heat drives rapid growth, requiring a frequent and consistent mowing schedule throughout the summer.

Alkaline and Sandy Soil Challenges

The soil pH in Sedgwick sits at 7.30, which is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 7.0 maximum for most grasses. With a high sand content of 51.6% and moderate clay at 16.2%, water drains quickly through the profile. Adding sulfur or organic mulch can help lower the pH and keep moisture near the roots.

Managing Widespread Severe Drought

Currently, 100% of Sedgwick County is under severe drought conditions, with 24 weeks of drought recorded over the past year. To protect your lawn, avoid fertilizing during peak heat, as this can stress the grass further. Use smart controllers to adjust watering based on actual evaporation rates to save water while keeping turf alive.

Beat the Heat with Smart Seeding

Kentucky Bluegrass remains a local favorite, but heat-tolerant Tall Fescue is an excellent choice for the 48 scorching summer days. Plan your seeding around the May 7 frost date to allow for strong spring establishment. With the first fall frost arriving October 7, late summer is also an ideal time for repair work.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sedgwick County's county score?
Sedgwick County, Colorado has a composite county score of 61.2 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 Sedgwick County rank among counties in Colorado?
Sedgwick County ranks #12 among all counties in Colorado 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 Sedgwick County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Sedgwick County is $671, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Sedgwick County a tax score of 88.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sedgwick County?
The median household income in Sedgwick County, Colorado is $52,833 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sedgwick County earns an income score of 20.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sedgwick County, Colorado a good place to live?
Sedgwick County scores 61.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Sedgwick 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 Sedgwick 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.