Cost of Living in Dickinson County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dickinson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dickinson County ranks #1,817 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dickinson County, Kansas
Dickinson leads Kansas on affordability
Dickinson County achieves a 14.3% rent-to-income ratio—the only county in this survey that beats Kansas's 14.7% state average and approaches national norms. A robust median household income of $67,982 (88% of the national median) paired with $809 monthly rents creates genuine affordability comfort.
Statewide affordability standout
Dickinson's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Kansas's best, undercutting the state average of 14.7% and signaling stronger local wages relative to housing costs. Its higher median income ($67,982) explains why residents handle housing expenses more smoothly than peers elsewhere.
Strong income drives housing comfort
Dickinson's $67,982 median income substantially exceeds all surveyed neighbors, allowing residents to absorb $809 monthly rents more easily than Comanche, Cowley, Crawford, or Decatur residents. Its $148,500 median home value reflects the county's relative prosperity and stronger buyer demand.
Renters and owners both find ease
Dickinson renters spend just 14.3% of their $67,982 income on $809 monthly rent, while homeowners allocate 16.0% to $907 monthly costs. This narrow gap and manageable percentages indicate that Dickinson residents—whether renting or buying—navigate housing affordably.
Kansas's most balanced housing market
Dickinson offers the region's strongest income-to-housing balance, making it ideal for families or professionals seeking Kansas stability without affordability strain. Compare its 14.3% ratio against Crawford's 20.0% to see the difference strong local wages make.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dickinson County
Affordability Verdict
Dickinson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $809/month — about 14.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $809/month rent versus $907/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $98/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,871/year. With a median household income of $67,982, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Dickinson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Chase County where rent averages $758/month, Dickinson County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dickinson County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,586
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dickinson County
Median home value is $148,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,186 vs. your max of $1,586.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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