Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ottawa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ottawa County ranks #830 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Kansas
Ottawa County: strong incomes offset housing costs
Ottawa County's 11.5% rent-to-income ratio reflects excellent affordability, bolstered by a median income of $76,755 that exceeds the national average by nearly $2,000. At $738/month for rent, housing costs are moderate in absolute terms, and the strong income base makes them feel manageable.
Top-tier affordability in Kansas
Ottawa County's 11.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Kansas's best, beating the state average of 14.7% by 3.2 percentage points. Combined with above-average median income of $76,755, Ottawa County offers one of the state's strongest housing value propositions.
Ottawa County: premium community, solid value
Ottawa County's $738 median rent falls between Nemaha County's $726 and Osage County's $810, positioning it as a moderate-cost option with above-average household income. The $164,100 median home value is second-highest in the peer group—only behind Nemaha—reflecting a stable, appreciating market.
Homeownership carries a premium here
Renters allocate just 11.5% of income to housing, while homeowners commit 14.8% ($949 monthly), creating a meaningful affordability gap favoring tenants. For households earning $76,755, the gap is manageable, but would-be buyers should understand the ownership cost premium.
Stable communities with earned affordability
Ottawa County appeals to professionals and established families whose above-average incomes unlock access to quality communities and property appreciation potential. If you're seeking both affordability and long-term equity building in a stable market, Ottawa County's combination of strong income and moderate housing costs makes it a compelling choice.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ottawa County
Affordability Verdict
Ottawa County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $738/month — about 11.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $738/month rent versus $949/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $211/month cheaper — a 22% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,671/year. With a median household income of $76,755, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Ottawa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Ottawa County sits 8% more expensive than Allen County ($685/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ottawa County
Rent Burden
11.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,791
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ottawa County
Median home value is $164,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,310 vs. your max of $1,791.
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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