Cost of Living in Barton County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barton County, Kansas
Barton County faces highest rent burden
Barton County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% ranks among the most strained in this analysis, exceeding national affordability limits by 1.6 percentage points. Despite rents of $742—slightly below national averages—lower household incomes of $56,733 create disproportionate housing burden.
Barton struggles most in Kansas
At 15.7%, Barton County's rent-to-income ratio peaks above the Kansas average of 14.7% by a full percentage point, marking it as the state's most affordability-challenged county examined. The median rent of $742 mirrors state averages, but paired with the lowest incomes analyzed, generates severe budget strain.
Barton and Barber compete for affordability
Barton's $742 rent virtually matches Barber County's $743, yet Barton renters face marginally worse affordability (15.7% vs. 15.5%) due to $782 lower incomes. Both counties represent the region's most cost-burdened rental markets despite low absolute rents.
Barton County's tight housing budget
Barton households earning $56,733 allocate $742 for rent (15.7% of income) or $771 for mortgages, consuming more proportional income than most Kansas peers. Median home values of $117,200 offer moderate purchase paths but remain challenging relative to local wage levels.
Barton requires careful affordability planning
Consider Barton County cautiously—rents consume more of your paycheck here than in most Kansas alternatives, and mortgage ratios demand careful savings. Explore higher-income opportunities locally or weigh relocation to less-strained counties like Bourbon or Brown before deciding.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barton County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,324
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Barton County
Median home value is $117,200. Estimated monthly cost: $936 vs. your max of $1,324.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Barton County, Kansas?
What is the median rent in Barton County?
Is Barton County affordable?
How does Barton County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Barton County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Barton County, Kansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Barton 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.