Cost of Living in Reno County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Reno County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Reno County ranks #2,884 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Reno County, Kansas
Reno faces the tightest affordability squeeze
Reno County residents spend 17.0% of their $60,498 median household income on rent—the highest ratio in this analysis and well above Kansas's state average of 14.7%. While still below the national 30% affordability threshold, the strain is more acute here than in neighboring counties, particularly given incomes that trail the national median by 19%.
Least affordable county in this analysis
Reno County ranks as the least affordable housing market among the eight counties examined, with a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio that significantly exceeds the state average. Its $857 monthly rent and $60,498 median income create the tightest housing-cost burden in the region.
Higher costs, lower incomes than peers
Reno County's $857 rent and $907 owner costs exceed most neighbors despite having the region's lowest median household income of $60,498. This combination makes Reno the most cost-strained county in the comparison, outpaced only by higher-income Pottawatomie.
Housing dominates household budgets
Reno County renters dedicate $857 monthly (17% of income) to housing while homeowners pay $907, consuming a disproportionate share of already-tight budgets. With a median home value of $125,000, homeownership offers modest equity-building potential but significant financial commitment.
Seek opportunities elsewhere if affordable housing matters
If housing affordability is central to your relocation decision, Reno County's 17% rent-to-income ratio signals tighter finances than neighboring counties like Phillips or Republic. Consider higher-income markets or lower-cost alternatives before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Reno County
Affordability Verdict
Reno County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $857/month representing approximately 17.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Reno County is $857/month, while owner costs run $907/month. Renting saves approximately $50/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,871/year. With a median household income of $60,498, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Reno County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Reno County sits 6% more expensive than Pawnee County ($806/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Reno County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,412
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Reno County
Median home value is $125,000. Estimated monthly cost: $998 vs. your max of $1,412.
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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