Cost of Living in McPherson County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McPherson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McPherson County ranks #1,640 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McPherson County, Kansas
McPherson County balances higher incomes and costs
At 13.7%, McPherson County's rent-to-income ratio tracks just below the national norm, though housing itself costs more here—median rent stands at $889 versus the state average of $787. The county compensates with above-average household income of $77,701, $3,000 more than the national median, making higher costs manageable for most residents.
McPherson ranks mid-tier among Kansas counties
McPherson County's 13.7% rent-to-income ratio performs better than the state average of 14.7%, placing it solidly in the affordable range despite charging above-state-average rents. Higher incomes here offset premium housing prices, creating favorable affordability overall.
McPherson is the region's premium rental market
At $889 per month, McPherson County's median rent exceeds Marion ($727), Marshall ($670), and Meade ($799)—reflecting a more developed economy with higher service and job diversity. The trade-off: median household incomes here outpace neighbors, rewarding higher earners with quality services and amenities.
Housing consumes 13.7% of McPherson incomes
Renters in McPherson County earning $77,701 annually pay $889 monthly in gross rent, while homeowners invest $1,066 into ownership on median-valued properties of $198,400—the highest in this region. Despite these premium costs, the healthy income base keeps housing affordability in check across both renters and owners.
McPherson offers Kansas's highest earning potential
If career advancement and higher incomes matter more than minimum housing costs, McPherson County delivers—residents earn $77,701 on average, well above neighboring counties. Compare McPherson's higher wages and diverse job market against Marshall's rental bargains to find your relocation balance.
Cost of Living Advisory: McPherson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McPherson County is affordable. The median rent is $889/month against a median household income of $77,701, putting rent at 13.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in McPherson County pay $889/month on average, compared to $1,066/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 17%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,686/year. With a median household income of $77,701, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in McPherson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Crawford County where rent averages $837/month, McPherson County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McPherson County
Rent Burden
13.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,813
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McPherson County
Median home value is $198,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,584 vs. your max of $1,813.
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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