Cost of Living in Osage County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Osage County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Osage County ranks #1,633 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Osage County, Kansas
Osage County: premium pricing for stability
Osage County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably in the affordable zone despite higher absolute housing costs—a testament to the county's strong median income of $70,216. At $810/month for rent and $996/month for homeownership, Osage County commands the highest housing costs in the peer group, reflecting a more established, affluent market.
Above Kansas average but income-balanced
Osage County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the Kansas state average of 14.7%, despite having the highest median rent ($810) among peer counties. Above-average median income of $70,216 allows households to absorb these higher costs while maintaining healthy affordability ratios.
Osage County: the premium regional market
Osage County's $810 median rent is notably higher than all peers—$173 above Nemaha County's $726 and $168 above Ottawa County's $738. Homebuyers will find median values of $142,800 moderate for the region, though monthly owner costs of $996 represent the highest in the peer group.
Income supports higher housing costs
Renters allocate 13.8% of income to housing, while homeowners commit 17.0% ($996 monthly), creating a meaningful affordability gap between renting and buying. Osage County's higher income base ($70,216) is what makes these premium prices sustainable—lower-income households would find both pathways strained.
For those seeking affluent stability
Osage County attracts established families and professionals who value strong community infrastructure and don't mind paying a premium for it. If your household income exceeds $75,000 and you prioritize neighborhood stability over rock-bottom housing costs, Osage County's vibrant market justifies its higher price tags.
Cost of Living Advisory: Osage County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Osage County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $810/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Osage County pay $810/month on average, compared to $996/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 $32,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,686/year. With a median household income of $70,216, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Osage County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Montgomery County where rent averages $759/month, Osage County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Osage County
Rent Burden
13.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,638
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Osage County
Median home value is $142,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,140 vs. your max of $1,638.
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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