Cost of Living in Gray County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Gray County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Gray County ranks #1,329 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Gray County, Kansas
Gray County balances income and housing
Gray County residents enjoy a 12.8% rent-to-income ratio, nestled comfortably within the national affordability sweet spot of 12-14%. With a median household income of $77,885—above the national average of $74,755—renters here allocate roughly $9,600 annually to housing.
Above-average affordability statewide
At 12.8%, Gray County's rent-to-income ratio beats Kansas's state average of 14.7%, reflecting both higher-than-typical incomes and moderate rental costs. This positions the county as one of Kansas's more livable markets.
Premium rents, premium incomes
Gray County's $833 monthly rent is the highest among western Kansas peers, but its $77,885 median income is also the strongest, keeping the ratio competitive. Grant County offers cheaper rent ($696) with lower income ($72,484), while Greeley County splits the difference at $915 rent and $78,819 income.
Renting and owning fairly balanced
Monthly rent ($833) and homeowner costs ($885) are closely matched, both consuming roughly 12.8% and 13.6% of income respectively. Homes value at $174,700—the highest among western Kansas counties surveyed—reflecting stronger equity-building potential for local buyers.
Best fit for income-secure households
Gray County rewards those with steady, above-average incomes—its strong rent-to-income ratio depends on the $77,885 median income. If your household income is $75,000 or higher, Gray's robust rental and ownership markets offer genuine affordability; lower-income movers may find western neighbors more comfortable.
Cost of Living Advisory: Gray County
Affordability Verdict
Gray County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $833/month — about 12.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Gray County pay $833/month on average, compared to $885/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 6%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,929/year. With a median household income of $77,885, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Gray County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cowley County where rent averages $779/month, Gray County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Gray County
Rent Burden
12.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,817
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Gray County
Median home value is $174,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,395 vs. your max of $1,817.
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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