Cost of Living in Shawnee County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Shawnee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Shawnee County ranks #3,044 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Shawnee County, Kansas
Shawnee rents strain more than average
At 17.6%, Shawnee County's rent-to-income ratio runs 3 percentage points higher than the national norm, meaning renters here dedicate a larger share of earnings to housing. The county's median household income of $66,043 also falls about $8,700 below the national median of $74,755, making housing costs feel steeper.
Above average for Kansas affordability
Shawnee's 17.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks it worse than Kansas's 14.7% state average, placing it in the middle-to-higher range of housing burden across the state. With a median rent of $970 per month, Shawnee exceeds Kansas's $787 state average by nearly $200.
Pricier than surrounding counties
Shawnee's $970 median monthly rent stands significantly higher than nearby Stafford County ($613) and Stanton County ($691), making it one of the region's pricier rental markets. Even compared to Sherman County at $852, Shawnee renters pay roughly $120 more each month for comparable housing.
Homeownership costs rival rents here
Monthly owner costs of $1,030 nearly match the median rent of $970, while the median home value sits at $170,400. Together, these figures show renters and homeowners alike spend roughly 15–17% of the $66,043 median household income on housing.
Consider the rent premium you'll pay
If affordability drives your relocation decision, Shawnee County rents exceed nearby alternatives by hundreds of dollars monthly. Explore Stanton, Stafford, or Smith counties for significantly lower rental burdens while maintaining comparable job markets and services.
Cost of Living Advisory: Shawnee County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Shawnee County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $970/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $970/month rent versus $1,030/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $60/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,143/year. With a median household income of $66,043, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Shawnee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Shawnee County sits 6% more expensive than Greeley County ($915/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Shawnee County
Rent Burden
17.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,541
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Shawnee County
Median home value is $170,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,360 vs. your max of $1,541.
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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