Cost of Living in Jackson County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #1,084 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, Kansas
Jackson offers solid national affordability
Jackson County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national average, offering reasonable housing affordability for renters earning $72,703 median household income. At $856 monthly, rents remain accessible compared to national trends, though homeownership costs are notably higher.
Slightly above Kansas average for renters
Jackson County ranks near the middle of Kansas counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.1% compared to the state average of 14.7%. This positions it as a balanced market—not the most affordable, but reasonable for families seeking Kansas housing.
Mid-range costs in the region
Jackson's $856 monthly rent sits between Jefferson County's $844 and Kearny County's $1,137, reflecting a moderate rental market. Home values at $193,600 are higher than western county neighbors but lower than Jefferson County's $200,800, indicating Jackson attracts mid-market homebuyers.
Homeownership premium in Jackson
Renters spend 14.1% of their income on housing, but homeowners commit 17.2% to monthly ownership costs of $1,042, suggesting a steeper jump to homeownership here. This disparity reflects median home values of $193,600, making Jackson attractive for renters but requiring substantial income commitment for buyers.
A reasonable choice for Kansas relocators
Jackson County suits renters and entry-level homebuyers seeking moderate affordability in central Kansas with a stable income base of $72,703. Consider Jefferson County to the south for slightly higher incomes and home values, or Haskell to the west for lower overall costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Jackson County is affordable. The median rent is $856/month against a median household income of $72,703, putting rent at 14.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Jackson County is $856/month, while owner costs run $1,042/month. Renting saves approximately $186/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,657/year. With a median household income of $72,703, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cherokee County where rent averages $801/month, Jackson County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
14.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,696
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jackson County
Median home value is $193,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,546 vs. your max of $1,696.
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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