Cost of Living in Morris County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Morris County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Morris County ranks #1,472 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Morris County, Kansas
Morris County renters face above-average burden
At 15.0%, Morris County's rent-to-income ratio matches Miami County's and exceeds the national average, signaling housing costs that demand a significant income share. Median household income of $56,716 falls well below the national median of $74,755, creating affordability pressure despite modest rent of $711.
Morris County ranks below Kansas affordability
Morris County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 14.7%, placing it among Kansas's least affordable counties despite the lowest incomes in this survey. The county struggles to balance low earning potential with even modest housing costs.
Morris faces rural Kansas affordability challenges
Morris County's $711 median rent falls in the middle of regional options, but its $56,716 median income ranks among the lowest alongside Montgomery ($53,242), creating above-average rent burden. Compared to better-earning neighbors like Marshall and McPherson, Morris residents face tighter housing-cost squeeze.
Housing claims 15% of Morris County incomes
A typical Morris County household earning $56,716 annually spends $711 monthly on rent, or about 15% of gross income—above-average burden for a lower-income community. Homeowners invest $825 monthly on median-valued properties of $120,900, a manageable figure offset by reduced renter affordability.
Morris County requires strong job prospects
Morris County's below-average incomes combined with above-average rent ratios make it a relocation risk unless your new employment significantly exceeds current county wage levels. Consider Marshall County's superior affordability or McPherson's higher earning potential before committing to Morris.
Cost of Living Advisory: Morris County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Morris County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $711/month in gross rent, with 19.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $711/month rent versus $825/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $114/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,357/year. With a median household income of $56,716, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Morris County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Mitchell County where rent averages $653/month, Morris County is approximately 9% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Morris County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,323
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Morris County
Median home value is $120,900. Estimated monthly cost: $965 vs. your max of $1,323.
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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