Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamilton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamilton County ranks #1,452 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Kansas
Hamilton stretches incomes slightly tight
Hamilton County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national 12-14% comfort zone, signaling modest housing pressure on lower incomes of $61,929 versus the national $74,755. Renters allocate roughly $9,360 annually to housing here.
Above-average affordability challenge
At 15.1%, Hamilton County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kansas's state average of 14.7%, placing it slightly below the state median in affordability rankings. Monthly rent of $778 approaches the state median of $787, while incomes lag behind more prosperous regions.
Mid-tier among western Kansas counties
Hamilton's $778 rent and 15.1% ratio position it between affordable Grant ($696, 11.5%) and tight Graham ($726, 16.5%), while incomes of $61,929 fall behind Greeley ($78,819) and Gray ($77,885). Compared to Greenwood ($710 rent, 14.6% ratio), Hamilton charges modestly more without income advantage.
Balanced renting and owning costs
Monthly rent ($778) and homeowner costs ($759) are nearly identical, both consuming roughly 15% of the $61,929 median income. Homes value at $119,700, offering moderate ownership opportunity, yet the broader income constraint affects both housing markets equally.
Feasible for steady, mid-range earners
Hamilton County suits households earning $60,000–$75,000 seeking affordable housing without extreme income requirements or constraints. Whether renting or buying, plan around the 15% housing expense figure and compare to higher-income counties like Grant or Gray if your earnings exceed $72,000.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamilton County
Affordability Verdict
Hamilton County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $778/month — about 15.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hamilton County pay $778/month on average, compared to $759/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,529/year. With a median household income of $61,929, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in Hamilton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hamilton County sits 7% more expensive than Marion County ($727/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamilton County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,445
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hamilton County
Median home value is $119,700. Estimated monthly cost: $956 vs. your max of $1,445.
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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