countyscore
35.9
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 57.7Income & Jobs 45.8

County Report Card

About Seward County, Kansas

Trailing the National Median

Seward County earns a composite score of 35.9, falling significantly below the national median of 50.0. The score suggests that many quality-of-life factors are lower than the U.S. average.

Below the Kansas Average

With a score of 35.9, the county trails the Kansas state average of 49.5 by over 13 points. It struggles to keep pace with the livability metrics of many neighboring Kansas counties.

Elite Water and Stable Risks

The county's strongest category is its water score of 86.0. It also maintains a moderate risk score of 57.7, suggesting it is better prepared for environmental challenges than many urban centers.

Low Tax and Health Scores

Seward County faces a tax score of 7.5 and a health score of 33.7. The effective tax rate of 1.684% combines with lower health outcomes to create a challenging environment for wellness and savings.

Best for Essential Industry Workers

This county suits individuals who are employed in regional industries and value reliable utilities and moderate housing costs. It is a pragmatic choice for those focused on stable employment over high-end amenities.

Score breakdown

Tax7.5Cost40.3Safety38.5Health33.7Schools36.7Income45.8Risk57.7Water86Weather43
🏛7.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠40.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼45.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤33.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱44.5
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

Seward County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Seward County

via TaxByCounty

Seward County taxes above national average

Seward County's effective tax rate of 1.684% exceeds the national median of 1.1%, ranking the county among higher-taxed areas nationwide. The median annual tax of $2,257 on homes valued at $134,000 reflects substantial local tax collection.

Seward ranks 4th in Kansas tax rates

At 1.684%, Seward County's effective rate is the fourth-highest in Kansas, surpassed only by Rush County (1.897%), Rooks County (1.770%), and Russell County (1.751%), and above the state average of 1.549%. The median tax of $2,257 reflects the county's relatively aggressive tax posture.

Notably higher taxes than most peers

Seward County's 1.684% rate substantially exceeds Scott County (1.532%), Saline County (1.328%), and Sedgwick County (1.230%), placing it among the region's pricier tax environments. The burden falls squarely in the upper tier of Kansas counties.

Median tax of $2,257 on $134,000 home

Seward County homeowners with a median-valued property of $134,000 pay approximately $2,257 annually in property taxes. That figure climbs to $2,469 when mortgage-related adjustments and escrow are factored in.

Appeal if you suspect overassessment

In a high-tax county, an overestimated property value can significantly drain your household budget—making a formal assessment appeal worthwhile. Request your assessor to provide comparable sales data for homes similar to yours in your school district or township.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Seward County

via CostByCounty

Seward rents strain local incomes most

Seward County renters spend 17.8% of income on housing, exceeding both the Kansas state average of 14.7% and the national average of 14.6%. With median rents of $924 and household income of $62,269, Seward faces the tightest affordability margin among all peer counties surveyed.

Seward least affordable of peers

Seward County ranks as the least affordable county in this peer group, with a 17.8% rent-to-income ratio and median rents 17% above the state average of $787. This combination of above-average rents and below-average incomes creates the steepest housing burden in the region.

Seward costs most, earns less

Seward County's $924 rents exceed all rural peers except Sedgwick's metro rate, yet household income trails Scott County by $5,500 and Rooks by $1,300. This unfavorable income-cost ratio makes Seward the region's most challenging affordability case.

Seward housing consumes largest share

A household earning Seward's $62,269 median spends approximately $11,088 annually on $924 rent, consuming 17.8% of income and leaving just $51,181 for all other expenses. Homeowners see modest relief, with $883 monthly costs consuming 17.0% of income, though median home values reach $134,000.

Seward demands strong financial footing

Seward County requires careful relocation planning—budget roughly $920 for rent or $134,000 for home purchase, and prioritize dual incomes or above-median wages. The county's relatively high costs paired with lower regional incomes make it less forgiving than surrounding alternatives.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Seward County

via IncomeByCounty

Seward County Below National Income Standards

Seward County's median household income of $62,269 trails the national median of $74,755 by $12,486—a 16.7% gap placing it below half of U.S. counties. Per capita income of $29,053 significantly lags both national and state averages, indicating limited individual earning power. Despite modest household income, Seward County faces broader income challenges common to rural agricultural and rural industrial regions.

Below Kansas Average but Moderate Performance

Seward County's median household income of $62,269 ranks below Kansas's state average of $64,428 by $2,159, placing it in the lower-middle tier statewide. Per capita income of $29,053 falls well below the state average of $34,748, suggesting limited individual earning opportunities or higher unemployment. Seward County occupies the lower-to-middle range among Kansas counties economically.

Moderate Income with Higher Housing Burden

Seward County's $62,269 median income sits between rural peers like Rush County ($60,288) and Saline County ($63,316), creating middling performance. However, the rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% is the highest in this sample, indicating housing costs consume more income here than in most neighbors. The median home value of $134,000 is moderate, suggesting rent pressures rather than home-buying costs drive the ratio upward.

Rent-to-Income Ratio Signals Affordability Strain

Seward County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% is the highest in this eight-county comparison, indicating renters dedicate more of limited income to housing here. The $134,000 median home value is manageable, but combined with below-average per capita income, housing remains a significant household budget constraint. Families earning below the $62,269 median face genuine affordability challenges, particularly in rental markets.

Prioritize Income Growth and Emergency Savings

Seward County households at $62,269 with the nation's lowest per capita income sample should prioritize stable employment and skill development to increase earning power. Build emergency savings of 6-12 months immediately, given tight housing ratios and low per capita income suggesting vulnerability. Even modest investments in tax-advantaged accounts ($100-200/month) compound significantly over decades; start immediately regardless of income level to build long-term wealth and security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Seward County

via CrimeByCounty

Seward County Safety Exceeds National Average

Seward County maintains a respectable safety score of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1,403.7 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Aligning with Kansas State Averages

The county's safety score of 97.8 is virtually identical to the Kansas average of 98.0. While its crime rate is slightly above the state mean, it remains a secure community overall.

Seward vs the Western Kansas Region

Seward County is safer than urban centers like Saline but sees more activity than very quiet neighbors like Scott County. It serves as a middle-tier safety zone for the region.

Breakdown of Local Crime Incidents

Violent crime is 341.8 per 100K, staying just below the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 1,061.9, which is nearly half the U.S. property crime rate.

Smart Security for Seward Residents

Residents can maintain this safe environment by focusing on property security. Using deadbolts and securing windows are simple, effective ways to discourage the most common local crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Seward County

via HealthByCounty

Seward County's paradox: long life, poor health

At 77.2 years, Seward County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years, yet 23.3% report poor or fair health—the region's worst rate. This striking gap suggests residents live longer but experience significant daily health burdens. A 18.2% uninsured rate—among the nation's highest—likely explains this contradiction.

Longest life, worst health reports

Seward County's 77.2-year life expectancy ranks among Kansas's best, exceeding the state average of 75.4 years by 1.8 years. Yet 23.3% poor/fair health far exceeds the state median, and the 18.2% uninsured rate is the second-worst in Kansas. This paradox signals a county where length of life masks daily health struggles.

Worst self-reported health in region

Seward County's 23.3% poor/fair health rate dramatically exceeds all regional peers, notably Scott County (18.9%), Saline County (16.2%), and Rooks County (13.5%). Despite a respectable 77.2-year life expectancy, residents report the worst day-to-day health of any nearby county. This pattern reflects concentrated socioeconomic stress and coverage barriers.

Few providers, severe coverage crisis

Seward County has just 32 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—among the state's lowest—and 109 mental health providers. At 18.2% uninsured, nearly one in five residents lack coverage, making provider scarcity even more consequential. This combination of sparse supply and widespread uninsurance creates acute access barriers.

Coverage is urgent in Seward

Seward County's 18.2% uninsured rate is a health crisis, second-worst in Kansas and affecting nearly one in five residents. If you're uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov or contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment today—subsidies and Medicaid eligibility can cover most families. Your health and financial security depend on it.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Seward County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined public schooling in Seward County

Seward County serves 5,133 students through 10 public schools across two districts. The infrastructure includes six elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools, largely concentrated in the regional hub of Liberal.

Competitive graduation rates with room for growth

The graduation rate of 84.6% is within reach of the national 87.0% average but trails the state's 88.7%. Per-pupil spending is $7,449, which is approximately $1,500 below the Kansas state average.

Liberal district serves the vast majority of students

The Liberal district manages eight schools and 4,659 students, making it the primary educational provider. No charter schools exist in the county, with all students attending traditional public district schools.

A mix of town and rural school environments

The county features an average school size of 513 students, though Liberal Sr High is much larger with 1,353 students. Educational settings are split between four town-based schools and six rural campuses.

Housing opportunities near Liberal's core districts

Homebuyers in Seward County often focus on the Liberal district due to its central location and wide range of school levels. The county offers a blend of town convenience and rural options for families researching their next move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Seward County

via RiskByCounty

Seward County below national average risk

Seward County scores 42.30 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the "Very Low" category and below the national average. This favorable profile reflects managed exposure despite some elevated individual hazard scores.

Below-average risk for Kansas

Seward County's 42.30 score exceeds the Kansas state average of 29.89, positioning it in the moderate range for Kansas counties. However, it remains substantially safer than the highest-risk counties like Sedgwick (96.60) and Saline (66.16).

Moderate risk in southwestern Kansas

Seward County's 42.30 score is higher than neighboring Scott County (46.44), placing it in the moderate-risk band of southwestern Kansas. It reflects the region's transitional hazard profile between very-low-risk central counties and higher-risk areas eastward.

Wildfire and tornado lead hazards

Wildfire risk of 88.39 and tornado risk of 68.99 represent Seward County's primary threats, both substantial hazards requiring preparation. Earthquake risk at 41.09 is elevated compared to most Kansas counties, adding a secondary concern.

Prioritize wildfire and tornado coverage

Homeowners should ensure comprehensive wildfire protection and wind/tornado coverage in their insurance, given the county's 88.39 wildfire and 68.99 tornado risks. Consider earthquake insurance as a supplemental policy given the 41.09 earthquake risk, unusual for Kansas but meaningful in Seward County.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Seward County

via WeatherByCounty

A hot, arid southern border climate

Seward County’s 55.8°F average annual temperature and low 21.1-inch rainfall reflect a semi-arid desert influence. This creates a landscape defined by sun and wind rather than consistent moisture.

Extreme heat and significant drought risk

Seward County experiences 81 days of extreme heat, far more than the state average. It is also nearly 10 inches drier than the 30.3-inch Kansas precipitation benchmark.

The heat capital of the region

Seward County is significantly hotter than Scott County, averaging 81 heat days compared to Scott's 67. While both are dry, Seward maintains a much warmer winter average of 34.8°F.

Eighty-one days of extreme summer heat

Seward County is defined by its 81 days of 90°F+ weather, the highest in this group. Despite the heat, it still sees 14.4 inches of annual snowfall during its 34.8°F average winters.

Sun protection and water conservation

The 81 days of extreme heat make sunshades and high-SEER air conditioners a necessity for residents. Water conservation is critical here, as the county receives only 21.1 inches of rain annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Seward County

via SoilByCounty

Seward County’s Sandy Alkaline Profile

Seward County has an average pH of 7.40, significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This value sits well above the Kansas average of 6.80, which can limit the availability of iron and phosphorus. The soil score of 26.3 reflects the harsh growing conditions of this sandy High Plains region.

High Sand Content and Rapid Drainage

The soil is dominated by 52.5% sand, with only 29.9% silt and 16.2% clay. This high sand percentage leads to very fast drainage but poor nutrient and water retention. It is a challenging composition for traditional crops without significant irrigation and fertilization.

Low Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is quite low at 1.25%, far below the Kansas average of 2.22%. Available water capacity is also the lowest in the group at 0.143 in/in, compared to the state average of 0.180 in/in. These soils require intensive management to support sustained agricultural growth.

Fast-Draining Sands in the Southwest

Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unlisted for Seward County. Given that over half the soil is sand, expect very high permeability and potential for wind erosion. For construction or landscaping, managing rapid water infiltration is the primary concern.

Tough Plants for Zone 6b

Seward County is in Hardiness Zone 6b, requiring drought-tolerant and heat-hardy species. Native grasses and xeric plants like cacti or agave are well-suited to the sandy, alkaline ground. If you garden here, use heavy mulching and frequent organic amendments to keep your plants thriving in the dry climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Seward County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty for Seward County Turf

Seward County presents a significant challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 44.5, the lowest in this group. In Zone 6b, the combination of extreme heat and low moisture makes traditional lawn care a demanding task.

Extreme Heat and Arid Climate

With 81 days of heat exceeding 90°F and only 21.1 inches of rain, lawns in Seward County face intense environmental stress. The 4,109 growing degree days are often interrupted by summer dormancy unless a rigorous irrigation schedule is maintained.

Very Sandy Soil Requires Frequent Watering

The soil is 52.5% sand, which is the highest in the region and leads to extremely rapid drainage. A pH of 7.40 further complicates nutrient availability, meaning organic soil amendments are vital for holding both water and fertilizer.

Facing Widespread Dry Conditions

Currently, 78.5% of the county is Abnormally Dry (D0), and there were 15 weeks of drought over the past year. Xeriscaping or choosing the most drought-hardy grasses available is the only way to maintain a sustainable landscape here.

Choose Heat-Defying Grass Species

With the last frost on April 20, you have a decent spring window, but the 81 heat days are your biggest hurdle. Buffalograss or Blue Grama are your best bets for success in these sandy, arid 6b conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seward County's county score?
Seward County, Kansas has a composite county score of 35.9 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 Seward County rank among counties in Kansas?
Seward County ranks #93 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 Seward County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Seward County is $2,257, with an effective tax rate of 1.68%. This earns Seward County a tax score of 7.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Seward County?
The median household income in Seward County, Kansas is $62,269 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Seward County earns an income score of 45.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Seward County, Kansas a good place to live?
Seward County scores 35.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #93 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Seward 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 Seward 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.