Cost of Living in Clay County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clay County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clay County, Kansas
Clay County: highest rent burden here
Clay County renters spend 17.3% of their income on housing—the highest ratio in this county group and well above the national average of 14.7%. The $911/month rent is the highest in the region, and though incomes are reasonable at $63,136, the rent burden remains significant.
Among Kansas's most challenging markets
Clay County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Kansas's 14.7% state average, making it one of the least affordable counties examined. The $911/month rent is $124 above the state median, creating the steepest affordability challenge in this region.
Clearly the priciest option here
Clay County's $911/month rent towers over every neighbor—$198 more than Chautauqua, $153 more than Cheyenne, and $110 more than Chase County. This exceptional rent premium creates the region's toughest housing affordability challenge.
Steep rent burden despite decent income
Renters pay $911/month (17.3% of $63,136 income), while homeowners pay $867/month on the highest median home value in the region at $149,600. Clay County houses are premium-priced, and renters bear the heaviest burden relative to income.
Clay County demands careful budgeting
Clay County's significantly higher housing costs require careful financial planning—expect to spend roughly $200/month more on rent than most neighboring counties. If homeownership is your goal, the highest home values here suggest stronger property equity potential, but renting carries real affordability risk.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clay County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,473
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clay County
Median home value is $149,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,194 vs. your max of $1,473.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.