Cost of Living in Russell County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Russell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Russell County ranks #2,242 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 29%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Russell County, Kansas
Russell stretches incomes tighter
Russell County renters spend 16.1% of income on housing, exceeding both the Kansas state average of 14.7% and the national average of 14.6%. The strain reflects Russell's relatively lower household income of $53,902—the lowest among peer counties—paired with $722 median rents.
Russell faces affordability headwinds
Russell County ranks below average for Kansas affordability, with a 16.1% rent-to-income ratio and median rents of $722—slightly above the state average of $787. The gap narrows further when considering that Russell households earn significantly less than the Kansas median.
Russell costs more with less income
Russell County residents earn roughly $8,000 less annually than Rooks and Rush County households, yet pay rents within a few dollars of those counties. This income-cost mismatch makes Russell the least affordable of its rural peers despite modest absolute rents.
Russell housing takes heavy toll
A household earning Russell's median $53,902 spends about $8,688 annually on $722 rent, consuming 16.1% of income and leaving just $45,214 for all other expenses. Homeowners face even steeper pressure, with $822 monthly costs consuming 18.3% of income and median home values at $106,400.
Russell requires strategic planning
If you're considering Russell County, dual incomes or remote work at above-median wages become critical for comfortable housing affordability. The county offers rural character and lower absolute costs, but budget carefully—rents approach $750 and homes run $100,000+.
Cost of Living Advisory: Russell County
Affordability Verdict
Russell County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $722/month — about 16.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Russell County is $722/month, while owner costs run $822/month. Renting saves approximately $100/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,229/year. With a median household income of $53,902, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Russell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kansas, Russell County is more affordable than Marshall County by roughly 8% ($722/mo vs $670/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Russell County
Rent Burden
16.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,258
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Russell County
Median home value is $106,400. Estimated monthly cost: $849 vs. your max of $1,258.
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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