Cost of Living in Osborne County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Osborne County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Osborne County ranks #890 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Osborne County, Kansas
Osborne County: genuine affordability all around
Osborne County's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio delivers genuine affordability, supported by a median rent of just $591/month—the lowest among peer counties. Though median income of $59,408 trails the national average, the county's rock-bottom housing costs create exceptional purchasing power for everyday expenses.
Kansas's most affordable rental market
Osborne County's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio and $591 median rent rank among Kansas's best values, beating the state average of 14.7% and $787 respectively. The county offers genuine relief for renters stretched by housing costs in pricier Kansas markets.
Osborne County: the region's bargain anchor
Osborne County's $591 median rent is the lowest in the entire peer group—$46 below Morton County and $59 below Ness County. The $84,700 median home value is equally spartan, making Osborne a destination for renters and buyers prioritizing absolute cost minimization over amenities.
Buying and renting nearly equivalent
Renters spend 11.9% of income on housing, while homeowners commit 11.8% ($585 monthly), creating nearly perfect parity between both pathways. This equilibrium means households here have genuine freedom to choose based on personal preference rather than affordability constraints.
The region's true affordability leader
Osborne County is the clear winner for anyone making relocation decisions based purely on housing cost minimization—lowest rent, lowest home prices, and balanced affordability across both renting and buying. If you're relocating from a high-cost market and value financial breathing room, Osborne County delivers unmatched rural affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Osborne County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Osborne County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $591/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Osborne County pay $591/month on average, compared to $585/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 $23,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,071/year. With a median household income of $59,408, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Osborne County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Osborne County sits 8% less expensive than Norton County ($642/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Osborne County
Rent Burden
11.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,386
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Osborne County
Median home value is $84,700. Estimated monthly cost: $676 vs. your max of $1,386.
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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