countyscore
48.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 90.6Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 74.9

County Report Card

About Thomas County, Kansas

Thomas County Sits Near the National Median

With a composite score of 48.5, Thomas County performs just below the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the middle tier of counties across the country for overall livability.

Tracking Slightly Below the Kansas Average

Thomas County’s 48.5 score is one point below the Kansas state average of 49.5. It remains a competitive choice in Western Kansas, though it trails some of its higher-scoring neighbors.

High Incomes and Environmental Stability

The county excels in environmental safety with a Risk Score of 90.6 and a Water Score of 86.0. It also features a strong Income Score of 74.9, supported by a median household income of $73,575.

Property Tax and Safety Concerns

The tax burden is a notable hurdle, with a Tax Score of 20.1 reflecting an effective rate of 1.321%. Additionally, the Safety Score of 33.7 suggests there is room for improvement in local crime rates.

A Strong Choice for High Earners

This county best suits professionals who value high earning potential and minimal environmental risk. The combination of $73,575 median income and $165,900 home values offers a solid financial foundation.

Score breakdown

Tax20.1Cost57.8Safety33.7Health65Schools42.5Income74.9Risk90.6Water86Weather36.5
🏛20.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼74.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡33.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓42.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡90.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨56.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.8
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

Sheridan County
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63.8
Logan County
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Rawlins County
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Sherman County
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Gove County
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Decatur County
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Wallace County
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Cheyenne County
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Deep Dives

Thomas County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Thomas County

via TaxByCounty

Thomas County taxes rank low nationally

At 1.321%, Thomas County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 1.55%, placing it in the bottom half of all U.S. counties. Property owners here pay a median of $2,192 annually, compared to the national median of $2,690—saving roughly $500 per year on a similar-value home.

Below average by Kansas standards

Thomas County's 1.321% effective rate ranks it among the lowest in Kansas, where the state average is 1.549%. Homeowners benefit from this lower burden compared to the median Kansas county tax of $1,943.

Competitive with nearby counties

Thomas County's rate of 1.321% is lower than neighboring Trego County (1.456%) and Wallace County (1.538%), making it one of the more tax-friendly options in the northwest Kansas region. Only Wabaunsee County (1.274%) in this group offers a marginally lower rate.

What a typical home costs to own

On the median home value of $165,900, Thomas County homeowners can expect to pay approximately $2,192 in annual property taxes. That breaks down to roughly $183 per month—a manageable burden for property owners with or without a mortgage.

You might be overassessed

Many Thomas County homeowners are unaware that their properties may be overvalued on the county's assessments. If your tax bill seems high compared to similar homes nearby, filing an appeal could potentially reduce your burden and recoup overpaid taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Thomas County

via CostByCounty

Thomas County: Below National Averages

Renters in Thomas County spend 12.3% of income on housing, well below the national standard of affordability. With median household income at $73,575—nearly matching the national median of $74,755—Thomas County offers competitive shelter costs compared to the broader U.S. market.

Among Kansas's Most Affordable

Thomas County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.3% beats the Kansas state average of 14.7%, positioning it in the upper tier of affordability across the state. At $753/month, median rent runs slightly below Kansas's state average of $787.

Competitive with Northwest Kansas

Compared to neighboring Trego County, Thomas County rents run $59 higher monthly, though both counties maintain healthy affordability ratios below 13%. Thomas County's median home value of $165,900 exceeds nearby Trego County's $115,400, reflecting stronger property appreciation.

Balanced Housing Costs

Renters allocate $753 monthly while homeowners pay $898—a manageable gap against the $73,575 median household income. Together, these costs consume roughly 13% of household income for renters and 15% for owners, leaving substantial income for other needs.

Reliable Affordability for Remote Workers

If you're relocating to rural Kansas, Thomas County delivers stable housing costs with incomes that stretch further than national averages. Compare its 12.3% rent-to-income ratio against other Great Plains counties to confirm your relocation savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Thomas County

via IncomeByCounty

Thomas County Keeps Pace Nationally

With a median household income of $73,575, Thomas County sits just $1,180 below the U.S. median of $74,755—a strong showing for a rural Kansas county. This positions Thomas County in the upper-middle range nationally, outperforming most of rural America.

Top Earners in Kansas

Thomas County's median income of $73,575 towers 14% above Kansas's state average of $64,428, ranking it among the highest-income counties in the state. The county's per capita income of $39,637 also exceeds the state average by 14%, signaling strong earning power across all residents.

Outearning the Region

Thomas County leads most of its northwest Kansas neighbors, beating Trego County ($73,375) by just $200 and substantially outpacing Wallace County ($60,263). This income resilience reflects a more diversified economic base than surrounding rural counties.

Housing Costs Are Manageable Here

At 12.3%, Thomas County's rent-to-income ratio signals that housing absorbs a modest share of household budgets—well below the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $165,900, homeownership remains accessible on the county's median income.

Build Security Beyond the Paycheck

Thomas County households earn enough to cover basics and save; the next step is intentional wealth-building through retirement accounts, home equity, and diversified investments. Local financial advisors can help families turn steady income into long-term security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Thomas County

via CrimeByCounty

High Safety Standards in Thomas County

Thomas County maintains an impressive safety score of 97.6, indicating a very secure environment compared to the rest of the nation. Its total crime rate of 1,542.9 per 100,000 residents remains well below the national average of 2,385.5.

Comparing Thomas County to Kansas Averages

While safe, the county's total crime rate of 1,542.9 is slightly higher than the Kansas state average of 1,282.2 per 100,000 people. This lands the county just below the average state safety score of 98.0.

Thomas County and Its Western Neighbors

Thomas County's crime rate is higher than neighboring Trego County at 607.5 and Wichita County at 375.4. It serves as a more active hub for the region while still preserving a high level of security.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

Property crime accounts for 1,138.2 incidents per 100,000 residents, while violent crime is reported at 404.7. These figures show that while property theft is more common, violent crime remains near the national average of 369.8.

Vigilance Protects Thomas County Homes

Strong safety scores are a community asset that residents can help maintain through active vigilance. Simple measures like installing motion-sensor lighting can further deter property crime in the area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Thomas County

via HealthByCounty

Thomas County outlives the nation

At 77.7 years, Thomas County residents live nearly 2 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. The county's 14.0% poor or fair health rate sits below the national average of 15.3%, suggesting a healthier population overall.

Well above Kansas average

Thomas County's life expectancy of 77.7 years ranks among the strongest in Kansas, outpacing the state average of 75.4 years by 2.3 years. This positions the county in the healthier tier of Kansas communities.

Leaders in northwest Kansas

Compared to neighboring counties, Thomas County holds steady with solid life expectancy and health metrics. The county's 14.0% poor/fair health rate matches its immediate region, though some neighbors exceed its primary care access with up to 96 providers per 100,000 residents.

One in eight residents uninsured

Thomas County's uninsured rate of 12.6% exceeds the state average of 11.5%, leaving about 1 in 8 residents without coverage. The county maintains 51 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and strong mental health capacity at 178 providers per 100,000.

Explore your coverage options today

With 12.6% of residents uninsured, Thomas County residents should check healthcare.gov or Kansas Medicaid to find affordable plans. Local primary care providers and mental health specialists are available to serve you once covered.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Thomas County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education infrastructure in the High Plains

Thomas County supports a network of seven public schools including two elementary, two middle, and three high schools. Three distinct districts serve a total enrollment of 1,182 students across the region. This infrastructure provides a stable foundation for learners in the northwest corner of the state.

Tracking investment and graduation outcomes

The county reports an 85.2% graduation rate, which sits just below the national average of 87% and the state average of 88.7%. Per-pupil expenditure currently stands at $7,827, roughly $1,100 less than the Kansas state average. Despite lower funding levels, the county maintains a school score of 52.8, slightly above the national median.

Colby Public Schools leads regional enrollment

Colby Public Schools is the largest provider in the county, managing three schools and educating 964 students. Traditional public districts oversee 100% of the county's schools, as there are currently no charter schools in operation. Smaller districts like Golden Plains and Brewster provide alternative options with a combined enrollment of 294 students.

A blend of town and rural campuses

The educational experience is split between four rural sites and three town-based schools, with an average school size of 169 students. Colby Elementary is the largest campus with 409 students, offering a busier atmosphere than the intimate Golden Plains High, which serves just 46 students. This diversity allows families to choose between small-town community hubs and very small rural cohorts.

Establish your home near Colby schools

Proximity to the county's centralized campuses in Colby makes the area a primary target for families researching local real estate. Quality education remains a top driver for property values in this regional hub. Explore available homes near these established districts to secure a place in this High Plains community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Thomas County

via RiskByCounty

Thomas County faces very low national risk

With a composite risk score of 9.45, Thomas County sits well below the national average and carries a "Very Low" rating for natural disasters. This means your county experiences fewer and less severe hazard exposures than most U.S. counties.

Among Kansas's safest counties

Thomas County's score of 9.45 ranks it far below Kansas's state average of 29.89, placing it in the lower-risk tier statewide. You're in one of the more protected corners of Kansas when it comes to composite disaster risk.

Safer than nearby Wallace County

Thomas County (9.45) edges out its western neighbor Wallace County (1.18) for lowest overall risk, though both remain very low. Your risk profile is comparable to other northwest Kansas plains counties.

Tornadoes your primary weather concern

Tornado risk (36.51) is Thomas County's dominant hazard, though still moderate in absolute terms. Earthquake risk (17.46) and wildfire risk (15.39) round out your secondary concerns, each well-managed with proper preparation.

Tornado insurance protects your investment

Given tornado risk of 36.51, ensure your homeowners policy covers wind damage and consider a separate rider for additional protection. Check your policy annually and maintain a home disaster kit with battery-powered radio and first-aid supplies.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Thomas County

via WeatherByCounty

High Plains climate in Thomas County

Thomas County's 51.8°F average temperature sits slightly below the national median for a semi-arid High Plains climate. The county receives only 20.7 inches of annual precipitation, making it significantly drier than the national average.

Cooler and drier than the Kansas average

With an annual average of 51.8°F, Thomas is one of the cooler counties in Kansas compared to the state average of 54.8°F. It also ranks among the top tier for snowfall in the state, averaging 21.4 inches per year.

A dry outlier among regional neighbors

The county's 20.7 inches of rain is slightly higher than western neighbor Wallace but significantly drier than eastern Kansas. The average temperature is lower than neighboring Trego County to the southeast.

Sweeping temperature swings across the seasons

July highs average 76.7°F, but the county still endures 58 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F. Winters are brisk with a December-to-February average of 30.3°F and 21.4 inches of annual snow.

Planning for snow and summer heat

High snow totals require reliable snow removal equipment and winterized vehicles for rural travel. Summer cooling costs rise during the 58 extreme heat days, so efficient HVAC systems are essential for residents.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Thomas County

via SoilByCounty

A Foundation of Gravelly Sandy Loam

Thomas County is defined by its gravelly sandy loam and Entisol soil order. The average pH of 7.22 sits well above the national median of 6.5, indicating an alkaline environment. This profile supports resilient agriculture but may require specific nutrient management for acid-loving plants.

Silt Dominates the High Plains

A robust 59.6% silt content dominates the landscape, balanced by 23.0% clay and 17.5% sand. This high-silt mix creates a soil that is relatively easy to work while retaining enough moisture for crop development. Farmers benefit from a texture that avoids the heavy density of clay-heavy regions.

Superior Water Retention Capacity

The organic matter content stands at 2.11%, trailing slightly behind the Kansas average of 2.22%. However, the available water capacity reaches 0.196 in/in, which beats the state average of 0.180. This makes the county exceptionally efficient at holding moisture in a semi-arid climate.

Rapid Drainage and Low Runoff

The soil is classified as excessively drained and belongs to hydrologic group A. This means water moves through the profile rapidly with very low runoff potential. While this prevents pooling, it requires careful irrigation timing to keep roots hydrated.

Flourishing in Zone 6a

Located in USDA hardiness zone 6a, Thomas County is perfectly suited for winter wheat, sorghum, and hardy perennials. Gardeners should focus on drought-tolerant species that thrive in alkaline conditions. Start your garden today with native grasses or robust sunflowers.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Thomas County

via LawnByCounty

Thomas County Faces Dry-Land Lawn Challenges

With a score of 50.8, lawn maintenance here sits near the national median but falls well below the Kansas average of 59.1. Local gardeners in hardiness zone 6a must manage semi-arid conditions that demand more attention than eastern neighbors.

Managing High Heat and Limited Rain

The county receives just 20.7 inches of annual precipitation, significantly below the 30-50 inches ideal for most turf. With 58 extreme heat days over 90°F, frequent irrigation is essential to keep grass from entering summer dormancy.

Handling Excessively Drained Sandy Loams

The soil is classified as excessively drained gravelly sandy loam, meaning it loses moisture rapidly. A slightly alkaline pH of 7.22 may also require sulfur amendments to help your lawn better absorb essential nutrients.

Building Resilience Against Sustained Drought

Thomas County endured 21 weeks of drought over the past year, with 40.2% of the area currently abnormally dry. To conserve water, homeowners should utilize deep, infrequent watering cycles to encourage deep root growth.

Start Your Thomas County Turf

Native Buffalo grass or drought-tolerant Tall Fescue are the best choices for this zone 6a climate. Aim to seed after the last frost on May 2nd or during the fall cooling period starting in early October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thomas County's county score?
Thomas County, Kansas has a composite county score of 48.5 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 Thomas County rank among counties in Kansas?
Thomas County ranks #65 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 Thomas County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Thomas County is $2,192, with an effective tax rate of 1.32%. This earns Thomas County a tax score of 20.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Thomas County?
The median household income in Thomas County, Kansas is $73,575 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Thomas County earns an income score of 74.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Thomas County, Kansas a good place to live?
Thomas County scores 48.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #65 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Thomas 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 Thomas 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.