Cost of Living in Mitchell County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mitchell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mitchell County ranks #996 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mitchell County, Kansas
Mitchell County rents stay below national burden
At 13.5%, Mitchell County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, with median monthly rent of just $653 serving a median household income of $58,233. Though income lags the national average, Mitchell's exceptionally affordable housing keeps overall affordability competitive for renters nationwide.
Mitchell County ranks among Kansas's most affordable
Mitchell County's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.7%, delivering solid affordability through aggressive rent pricing at just $653 per month. Among Kansas counties, Mitchell stands out for creating genuinely affordable rental markets despite below-average incomes.
Mitchell offers Kansas's cheapest rents
At $653 monthly, Mitchell County's median rent trails only Marshall County's $670 in the region, making it one of the state's most affordable rental markets. This competitive advantage serves lower-income households particularly well, as housing costs consume a smaller portion of already-modest earnings.
Mitchell renters keep most income for essentials
A typical Mitchell County household earning $58,233 annually spends just $653 on rent monthly, freeing substantial income for food, utilities, and healthcare. Homeowners face higher costs at $859 monthly on median-valued properties of $109,600, but both renters and owners find genuine affordability here.
Mitchell County prioritizes renter affordability
If keeping housing costs minimal is your top relocation goal, Mitchell County delivers rents rivaling the state's cheapest while maintaining reasonable home prices. Compare Mitchell against Marshall for the absolute best rental value, or against slightly wealthier McPherson if you'd prefer stronger job markets and higher wages.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mitchell County
Affordability Verdict
Mitchell County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $653/month representing approximately 13.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $653/month rent versus $859/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $206/month cheaper — a 24% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,814/year. With a median household income of $58,233, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Mitchell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ellsworth County where rent averages $705/month, Mitchell County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mitchell County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,359
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mitchell County
Median home value is $109,600. Estimated monthly cost: $875 vs. your max of $1,359.
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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