Education in Paola, KS

Updated 2026 β€’ Schools and education data

HS Graduate or Higher
88.7%
Bachelor's Degree+
28.7%
Total Schools
4

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023 estimates (Population 25+: 4,024)

Education Levels (Age 25+)

Bachelor's Degree+
28.7%
Some College / Associate
26.1%
High School Diploma
33.9%
Less Than High School
22.2%

Median Earnings by Education Level

Graduate Degree
$41,000
Bachelor's Degree
$43,516
HS Diploma
$30,127
Less Than HS
$25,563

Annual median earnings for full-time workers aged 25+

School Enrollment

Total Enrolled
1,233

Education in Paola

Evaluating schools in Paola, KS? This average educational attainment community boasts 29% college graduation rates (near the national average). The 4 schools range from elementary to high school, with varying performance metrics. Review detailed school data, including ratings and demographics, below.

Schools in Paola, KS

Showing 4 schools β€” including public, private, and charter schools with student-teacher ratios and graduation rates.

Paola Middle

Middle

Paola

Teachers
32
Students
430
Grad. Rate
β€”
Student-Teacher Ratio: 1/13

Paola High

High

Paola

Teachers
37
Students
558
Grad. Rate
96.9%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 1/15

Sunflower Elem

Elementary

Paola

Teachers
29
Students
403
Grad. Rate
β€”
Student-Teacher Ratio: 1/13

Cottonwood Elem

Elementary

Paola

Teachers
29
Students
385
Grad. Rate
β€”
Student-Teacher Ratio: 1/13

Pros & Cons

βœ“

Pros

  • β€’Friendly community
  • β€’Small-town charm
  • β€’Quiet suburban area
  • β€’Nearby parks and trails
  • β€’Low cost of living
  • β€’Local events and festivals
  • β€’Affordable housing options
  • β€’Low crime rate
  • β€’Good for families
  • β€’Access to local businesses
βœ—

Cons

  • β€’Less cultural diversity
  • β€’Few kids activities available
  • β€’Few job opportunities
  • β€’Schools need improvement
  • β€’Limited nightlife options
  • β€’Public transport is lacking
  • β€’Dependence on nearby cities
  • β€’Economic growth is slow
  • β€’Conservative political views
  • β€’Limited dining variety

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in Paola, KS? β–Ό

The cost of living in Paola, KS is 0% equal to the national average, with a cost of living index of 100 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown β†’

Is Paola, KS a safe place to live? β–Ό

Paola, KS is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Paola crime statistics β†’

How are the schools in Paola, KS? β–Ό

Paola, KS has 4 schools serving the community, including public, private, and charter options. School quality varies, so we recommend checking specific school ratings and test scores. See Paola school ratings β†’

What are the best neighborhoods in Paola, KS? β–Ό

The best neighborhoods in Paola, KS depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods vary in price depending on proximity to amenities and schools.

How are the taxes in Paola, KS? β–Ό

Tax rates in Paola, KS include state and local components. The cost of living index of 100 reflects a moderate cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Paola tax information β†’

How does Paola, KS compare to nearby cities? β–Ό

Paola, KS offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 100, median home prices of $0, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.

What is the weather like in Paola, KS? β–Ό

Weather in Paola, KS varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Paola climate & environment data β†’

How do schools in Paola, KS compare to state average? β–Ό

School quality in Paola, KS varies by district and individual school. We recommend checking specific school ratings, test scores, and parent reviews for the neighborhoods you're considering.

πŸ“… Last Updated: February 2026

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (2023), National Center for Education Statistics

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