Cost of Living in Sedgwick County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sedgwick County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sedgwick County, Kansas
Sedgwick rents climb in metro setting
Sedgwick County renters spend 17.3% of income on housing, exceeding both the Kansas state average of 14.7% and the national average of 14.6%. As home to Wichita, Kansas's largest metro, Sedgwick's $977 median rent reflects urban demand, though household income of $67,675 provides some buffer.
Sedgwick strained by metro growth
Sedgwick County ranks below average for Kansas affordability, with a 17.3% rent-to-income ratio and rents 24% above the state median of $787. The metro premium reflects Wichita's role as the region's job and services hub, driving costs upward faster than rural counties.
Sedgwick costs more than all peers
Sedgwick County's $977 median rent exceeds every rural county peer, substantially surpassing Rooks ($679), Rush ($700), and even mid-sized Saline ($915). Yet Sedgwick offers metro amenities, diverse employment, and a larger economic base than smaller alternatives.
Sedgwick metro strain on budgets
Households earning Sedgwick's $67,675 median spend approximately $11,724 annually on $977 rent, allocating 17.3% of income and leaving $55,951 for other needs. Homeowners face steeper burden, with $1,099 monthly costs consuming 19.5% of income and median home values at $190,700.
Sedgwick rewards metro job-seekers
Sedgwick County suits relocators seeking metro job markets and urban services willing to pay a premium—budget roughly $980 for rent or $191,000 for home purchase. Wichita's diverse employers and regional centrality justify housing costs, making Sedgwick ideal for career growth over pure affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sedgwick County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,579
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Sedgwick County
Median home value is $190,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,522 vs. your max of $1,579.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.