countyscore
60
County Score
Disaster Risk 92.3Cost of Living 90.6Schools 88.3

County Report Card

About Woodson County, Kansas

Strong National Standing for Livability

Woodson County earns a composite score of 60.0, placing it well ahead of the national median of 50.0. This score highlights its effectiveness in providing essential services affordably.

Beating the Kansas State Benchmark

At 60.0, the county ranks significantly higher than the Kansas average of 49.5. It is one of the more surprisingly high-performing rural counties in the region.

Top-Tier Schools and Low Costs

The county boasts an excellent School Score of 88.3 and a Cost Score of 90.6. With median home values of just $77,100, it is one of the most affordable places to live in the state.

Taxes, Income, and Water Infrastructure

Woodson faces significant hurdles with a Tax Score of 5.0 and an Income Score of 11.3. Additionally, the Water Score of 2.1 indicates a major need for infrastructure investment.

A Haven for Affordable Family Living

This county is a prime choice for families who want great schools without high housing prices. It suits those who can navigate a low-income local economy or bring their own remote employment.

Score breakdown

Tax5Cost90.6Safety74.4Health46.8Schools88.3Income11.3Risk92.3Water2.1Weather56.3
🏛5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠90.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼11.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡74.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓88.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡92.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧2.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨62.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74
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

Wilson County
Kansas
50.5
Coffey County
Kansas
60.4
Allen County
Kansas
40.8
Greenwood County
Kansas
49.6
Neosho County
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Anderson County
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Elk County
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49.7
Lyon County
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39.6

Deep Dives

Woodson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Woodson County

via TaxByCounty

Woodson County has highest rates

At 1.811%, Woodson County's effective tax rate significantly exceeds the national median of 1.55%, placing it well above most U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,396 is roughly half the national median of $2,690, due to lower home values.

Well above Kansas average

Woodson County's 1.811% effective rate is substantially higher than Kansas's 1.549% state average—the highest among all eight counties analyzed. Even so, the median tax of $1,396 remains below the statewide median of $1,943 because homes are valued lower.

Significantly highest rate in group

At 1.811%, Woodson County has the highest effective tax rate by far, more than 0.3 percentage points above Wallace County (1.538%), the second-highest in this eight-county set. This represents a major tax burden difference for residents.

Highest burden relative to home values

The median home in Woodson County is valued at $77,100, the lowest in this group, with annual property taxes of $1,396. At approximately $116 per month, Woodson residents pay a notably high rate despite modest home values.

Assessment appeal could provide relief

With the highest effective tax rate in the region, Woodson County residents should prioritize reviewing their assessments. An appeal challenging an overvalued property could provide meaningful relief from an already above-average tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Woodson County

via CostByCounty

Woodson County: Deepest Rural Poverty

Woodson County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% approaches national affordability thresholds despite having Kansas's lowest median household income at $48,152—35% below the national median of $74,755. Ultra-low rents of $597/month barely offset severe income challenges.

Kansas's Lowest-Income County

At $48,152 median income, Woodson County ranks among Kansas's lowest-earning communities, though its 14.9% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches the state average of 14.7%. Median rent of $597/month represents genuine affordability for those who can earn stable income here.

Lowest Incomes, Lowest Rent

Woodson County's $597 rent ties with Wallace County's and beats Washington County's $547, though its median income of $48,152 dramatically trails all neighbors—by $12,111 compared to Wallace and $14,300 compared to Washington. Median home value of $77,100 represents the region's lowest entry point for homeownership.

Affordability Through Necessity

Renters spend $597 monthly while owners spend $591 against just $48,152 median income, consuming 15% and 15% respectively—the highest burden despite lowest absolute costs. The tight alignment reflects a rural community where both renters and owners stretch modest incomes to their limits.

Remote Income Essential for Relocation

Woodson County offers rock-bottom housing costs, but its severe income deficit (35% below national median) makes relocation realistic only for remote workers or retirees with stable outside income. If you can guarantee $60,000+ annual income independent of local employment, Woodson County's affordability becomes genuinely attractive.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Woodson County

via IncomeByCounty

Woodson County Faces Steepest Challenges

Woodson County's median household income of $48,152 is the lowest in this group and roughly $26,600 below the U.S. median of $74,755—placing it in the bottom 10% nationally. This income gap reflects decades of economic contraction in rural southeast Kansas.

Among Kansas's Lowest Earners

At $48,152, Woodson County's median household income is about 25% below the Kansas state average of $64,428, ranking it among the state's most economically challenged counties. Per capita income of $29,024 is also well below state average, indicating severe wealth constraints.

Trailing Even Struggling Peers

Woodson County's median income of $48,152 trails Wilson County ($57,056) by over $9,000 and falls dramatically short of better-performing eastern Kansas counties. The gap reflects unique demographic and economic pressures facing this isolated rural area.

Housing Costs Consume Critical Income

At 14.9%, Woodson County's rent-to-income ratio is among the highest statewide, meaning housing devours nearly 15% of median household income—leaving little margin for other essentials. The median home value of $77,100, while low, still challenges households earning under $50,000.

Seek Economic Development Support

Woodson County residents should connect with workforce development agencies, state economic development programs, and regional initiatives focused on rural revitalization—these offer the fastest path to higher earnings. Even modest income increases create meaningful budget relief and opportunity for saving.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Woodson County

via CrimeByCounty

Woodson County Ranks Among the Safest

Woodson County is extremely safe, boasting a safety score of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 606.2 per 100,000 is approximately 75% lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Woodson Exceeds Kansas Safety Norms

Woodson surpasses the Kansas average safety score of 98.0 and reports a crime rate less than half the state average of 1,282.2. Two reporting agencies provide a consistent picture of local safety.

Quiet Living Compared to Neighbors

The county's crime rate of 606.2 is lower than neighboring Wilson County at 830.7 and Trego County at 607.5. It is one of the safest rural jurisdictions in the southeastern part of the state.

Minimal Property and Violent Crime

The local property crime rate is just 478.6 per 100,000, while violent crime remains low at 127.6. These figures demonstrate a community where serious incidents are infrequent events.

Shared Responsibility for Safety

Community safety is a shared responsibility in Woodson County. Using simple home security tech like window sensors can help maintain this exceptionally high safety score for years to come.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Woodson County

via HealthByCounty

Woodson County faces severe health burden

Woodson County's life expectancy of 73.3 years is 2.8 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years, placing it among America's lowest. The county's 17.5% poor/fair health rate is the highest among these eight counties and exceeds the national average of 15.3%, indicating profound health challenges.

Lowest life expectancy in Kansas group

Woodson County's life expectancy of 73.3 years ranks among Kansas's lowest, falling more than 2 years below the state average of 75.4 years. The 17.5% poor/fair health rate is the highest in this region, signaling serious population health distress.

Health crisis in the region

Woodson County's 73.3-year life expectancy is nearly 7 years lower than top performers, placing it at the bottom of this eight-county group. The 17.5% poor/fair health rate is the region's highest, indicating a community struggling with chronic disease and health inequity.

Better coverage but minimal provider access

Woodson County's uninsured rate of 9.5% is better than the state average of 11.5%, yet primary care provider data is unavailable, suggesting critical access gaps. Mental health support is extremely limited at just 32 providers per 100,000 residents, far below regional norms, leaving many residents without specialist care despite having insurance.

Secure coverage and demand better access

With 9.5% uninsured, Woodson County's coverage rate is decent, but residents must ensure they maintain plans that cover available services. Contact healthcare.gov or Kansas Medicaid to verify coverage, and advocate locally for expanded primary and mental health provider recruitment to address the county's severe health crisis.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Woodson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient education in Yates Center

Woodson County operates a streamlined school system with two public schools: one elementary and one high school. A single district manages the entire county's enrollment of 415 students. This compact infrastructure is centered in Yates Center to serve the entire regional population.

Top-tier graduation and investment

Woodson County achieves a high 95.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 87%. The county invests a significant $10,430 per pupil, which is more than $1,400 above the state average of $9,009. These factors result in a composite school score of 63.6, the highest among its neighboring counties.

Unified Woodson district excellence

The Woodson school district oversees 100% of the county's public education, serving 415 total students. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring all public funds and community focus stay within the traditional district. This unified approach appears to be paying off in high graduation and funding metrics.

Small rural schools with high impact

Both schools in the county are classified as rural, with an average school size of 208 students. Yates Center Elementary is the larger facility with 312 students, while Yates Center High provides an intimate environment for its 103 students. The small high school size allows for a high degree of teacher interaction and student participation.

Invest in a home with premium school outcomes

With one of the highest school scores in the region and a 95% graduation rate, Woodson County is a premier choice for families. Real estate in and around Yates Center provides direct access to these well-funded and successful public schools. Consider this county for a home purchase if academic performance and high per-pupil spending are your priorities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Woodson County

via RiskByCounty

Woodson County enjoys low overall risk

At 7.73, Woodson County scores well below the national average and carries a "Very Low" rating for natural disasters. Your county's exposure to major hazards remains minimal compared to most U.S. regions.

Among Kansas's safer counties

Woodson County scores 7.73 against the state average of 29.89, placing it firmly in the lower-risk category statewide. Your location in east-central Kansas provides solid protection across natural hazard types.

Lower risk than county to the west

Woodson County (7.73) outperforms nearby Wilson County (17.97) in overall safety, though both remain in the very-low-risk tier. You benefit from more moderate topography than eastern-tier neighbors.

Wildfire and earthquake notable concerns

Wildfire risk (75.95) is Woodson County's dominant hazard, driven by woodland coverage and summer drought potential. Earthquake risk (25.73) and tornado risk (26.43) present secondary threats, with flood risk (13.17) minimal.

Prioritize wildfire and quake readiness

Create a defensible space by removing dead trees and brush within 100 feet of structures, and secure heavy furniture to walls for earthquake safety. Confirm your homeowners policy covers both wildfire and earthquake damage, and maintain emergency supplies including bottled water and first-aid kits.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Woodson County

via WeatherByCounty

Abundant rainfall in Woodson County

Woodson County averages 55.9°F, placing it above the national median in a humid transition zone. The county is exceptionally wet, receiving 41.8 inches of annual precipitation compared to national norms.

Exceeding the state precipitation average

Woodson is significantly wetter than the Kansas average of 30.3 inches, collecting over 11 extra inches of rain. Its 55.9°F annual temperature also runs higher than the state average of 54.8°F.

Consistent moisture in the southeast

It shares a similar high-precipitation profile with Wilson County to its south, though it is slightly cooler. It experiences far fewer extreme heat days than western counties like Trego.

Temperate winters and warm Julys

The county averages 41 days of extreme heat over 90°F, paired with a warm July average of 78.8°F. Winters are relatively mild, seeing only 9.0 inches of snow and a 34.0°F average temperature.

Waterproofing for a wet climate

Due to the 41.8 inches of rain, residents should ensure proper basement waterproofing and roof maintenance. Moderate winter temperatures make heavy-duty snow equipment less of a priority than in western Kansas.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Woodson County

via SoilByCounty

Ideal pH for Eastern Varieties

Woodson County's soil maintains an average pH of 6.24, making it slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Although specific taxonomic data is limited, this pH level supports a diverse range of crops and native trees. It is particularly well-suited for the tallgrass prairie ecosystem found in this region.

Dense and Nutrient-Rich Silt

The soil profile consists of 54.9% silt and 27.1% clay, providing a very fine-textured ground. With only 18.0% sand, the soil is excellent at retaining nutrients and water for long-term plant health. This density makes it a stable environment for permanent structures and perennial plantings.

Top-Tier Organic Content

A standout feature is the 2.68% organic matter, which is much higher than the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity also exceeds the state norm at 0.183 in/in. These combined factors result in a solid soil score of 62.8, indicating very fertile land.

Navigating Slower Water Movement

Specific drainage and hydrologic group classifications are currently unavailable for this area. Given the high percentage of clay and silt, water likely infiltrates more slowly than in western sandier soils. Careful planning of flower beds can help manage any potential surface runoff during heavy storms.

Abundant Harvests in Zone 6b

Woodson County falls into hardiness zone 6b, providing a reliable window for a variety of vegetables and fruits. The high organic matter ensures your garden will be naturally productive with minimal extra work. Try planting a mix of native wildflowers and summer vegetables to make the most of this rich soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Woodson County

via LawnByCounty

Woodson County Leads in Lawn Ease

With a high score of 74.0, Woodson County provides some of the most favorable lawn conditions in Kansas. This rating is nearly 25 points higher than the national median, reflecting the advantages of hardiness zone 6b.

Plentiful Rain and Moderate Summers

Lawns benefit from 41.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the state average. Combined with 4,175 growing degree days and only 41 extreme heat days, turf stays green longer with less effort.

Rich Soils Tailored for Turf

The soil pH of 6.24 provides a perfect chemical environment for roots to thrive and absorb fertilizer. A clay content of 27.1% helps the soil act as a reservoir, holding onto moisture through the warmer summer months.

Resilient Against Short Dry Spells

The county only faced four weeks of drought in the last year, though 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. Focus on deep root development now to maintain the county's natural growth advantage.

Maximizing the Woodson Season

Tall Fescue is a regional favorite for zone 6b, offering a lush green look most of the year. With a long window between the April 10th frost and October 28th freeze, you have plenty of time for a successful project.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Woodson County's county score?
Woodson County, Kansas has a composite county score of 60 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 Woodson County rank among counties in Kansas?
Woodson County ranks #13 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 Woodson County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Woodson County is $1,396, with an effective tax rate of 1.81%. This earns Woodson County a tax score of 5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Woodson County?
The median household income in Woodson County, Kansas is $48,152 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Woodson County earns an income score of 11.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Woodson County, Kansas a good place to live?
Woodson County scores 60/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Woodson 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 Woodson 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.