A solid choice for building in Southwest. Defined zoning, low flood risk, and very affordable land.
📊72/100AcreScore
💰$2KLand $/acre
🏠$125KHome Value
👥37,150Population
📈+0.8%Growth (10yr)
🌊4%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Mixed DryClimateZone 4B
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Finney County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Finney County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Kansas requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Finney County Building Department
Garden City, KS
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 4% of Finney County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones — well below the national average.
4%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $1,500 per acre make Finney County one of the most budget-friendly options in Kansas.
$2K
Median $/acre
$125K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.35%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Finney County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Finney County sits in the heart of Southwest. Dodge City is 50 min away. Kansas has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $1,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population37,150
10-Year Growth+0.8%
County SeatGarden City
State Income TaxYes
ClimateMixed Dry (Zone 4B)
How Close Is Everything?
Dodge City50 min
GCK10 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Finney County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Garden City. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Finney County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Finney County?
Check with the Finney County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Finney County?
Median price is approximately $1,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Finney County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Finney County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Finney County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.35%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Finney County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Kansas, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.