Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,396 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Kansas
Jefferson outperforms on affordability
Jefferson County's 13.1% rent-to-income ratio is among the best in the nation, offering exceptional housing affordability to households earning a median income of $77,393. At $844 monthly rent, Jefferson residents enjoy strong purchasing power and manageable housing burdens compared to national averages.
Kansas's most affordable county here
Jefferson County ranks among Kansas's most affordable communities, with a 13.1% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 14.7%. This superior affordability—combined with above-average household income—makes it an attractive option for Kansans prioritizing housing value.
Premium affordability and income in the region
Jefferson County leads neighboring Jackson ($72,703 income) and Haskell ($69,138 income) with a median household income of $77,393, while maintaining comparable or lower rent at $844. Home values at $200,800 are the highest in the immediate region, reflecting the county's relative affluence and stability.
Strong balance across housing types
Both renters (13.1% of income) and homeowners (16.1% of income) maintain reasonable housing-cost burdens in Jefferson County, though monthly ownership costs of $1,041 indicate a meaningful jump for buyers. The combination of high income and controlled costs creates broad accessibility across the housing spectrum.
Jefferson: Kansas's affordability leader
If you're relocating to Kansas and prioritize affordability with stable income, Jefferson County deserves serious consideration with its 13.1% rent-to-income ratio and $77,393 median household income. It consistently outpaces neighbors while offering home values ($200,800) that reflect genuine community investment and stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Jefferson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $844/month — about 13.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $844/month on average, compared to $1,041/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,614/year. With a median household income of $77,393, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Anderson County where rent averages $792/month, Jefferson County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
13.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,806
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $200,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,603 vs. your max of $1,806.
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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