Cost of Living in Atchison County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Atchison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Atchison County ranks #1,734 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Atchison County, Kansas
Atchison County stays affordable nationally
At 14.6%, Atchison's rent-to-income ratio meets the national affordability standard, keeping housing costs manageable despite household incomes running $12,591 below the U.S. median. Renters here spend 14% of income on housing—well within sustainable limits.
Atchison ranks near Kansas average
Atchison County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio mirrors Kansas's state average of 14.7%, positioning it firmly in the mainstream of Kansas affordability. The county's median rent of $756 undercuts the state average of $787 by $31, offering slight savings to local renters.
Middle ground for regional housing costs
Atchison's $756 rent splits the difference between Allen County's $685 and Anderson County's $792, reflecting its position as a moderate-cost option. The county's median home value of $147,900 matches Anderson's exactly, suggesting comparable homebuying pressures.
Atchison household housing breakdown
Median Atchison households earning $62,164 invest $756 monthly in rent or $841 in mortgages, consuming roughly 14.6% and 16.2% of income respectively. Home values averaging $147,900 demand moderate down payments but remain achievable for local wage earners.
Atchison balances rent and ownership costs
Consider Atchison if you want state-average affordability without the premium prices of urban Kansas centers. The county offers balanced options across both rental and homeownership paths, making it ideal for families weighing long-term housing stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Atchison County
Affordability Verdict
Atchison County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $756/month representing approximately 14.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $756/month rent versus $841/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $85/month cheaper — a 10% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,043/year. With a median household income of $62,164, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Atchison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ellsworth County where rent averages $705/month, Atchison County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Atchison County
Rent Burden
14.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,450
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Atchison County
Median home value is $147,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,181 vs. your max of $1,450.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Atchison County, Kansas?
What is the median rent in Atchison County?
Is Atchison County affordable?
How does Atchison County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Atchison County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Atchison County, Kansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Atchison County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.