Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Montgomery County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Montgomery County ranks #2,946 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Kansas
Montgomery County faces affordability pressures
At 17.1%, Montgomery County's rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national average, meaning residents here dedicate nearly one-fifth of their earnings to rent alone. With median household income at just $53,242—nearly $22,000 below the national median—and rent at $759, housing costs create genuine financial strain for renters.
Montgomery County struggles with Kansas affordability
Montgomery County's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks as the poorest in this survey, substantially exceeding Kansas's 14.7% state average. The combination of the state's lowest median income and mid-range rents creates a affordability crisis that requires careful household budgeting.
Montgomery faces the region's steepest rent burden
Despite charging moderate rent at $759, Montgomery County's extremely low income of $53,242 creates the region's worst rent-to-income ratio at 17.1%—considerably worse than Marion (13.8%), Marshall (11.3%), or any neighbor. This income-to-cost mismatch distinguishes Montgomery as the region's most financially stretched county.
Housing costs stretch Montgomery incomes thin
Renters earning Montgomery County's median of $53,242 annually pay $759 monthly for rent—nearly 17% of their gross income—leaving limited funds for other necessities. Homeowners face slightly lower costs at $752 monthly on median homes worth just $92,100, but both groups experience financial tightness compared to neighboring counties.
Montgomery County: proceed with caution
Montgomery County's combination of low incomes and moderate housing costs creates the region's toughest affordability challenge—avoid this county unless employment opportunities significantly exceed current wage levels. If you're relocating for work, verify that new job income substantially exceeds the county median; otherwise, Marshall, Mitchell, or Marion offer far superior housing affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Montgomery County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Montgomery County is affordable. The median rent is $759/month against a median household income of $53,242, putting rent at 17.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Montgomery County pay $759/month on average, compared to $752/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,229/year. With a median household income of $53,242, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Montgomery County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Osage County where rent averages $810/month, Montgomery County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Montgomery County
Rent Burden
17.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,242
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Montgomery County
Median home value is $92,100. Estimated monthly cost: $735 vs. your max of $1,242.
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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