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
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.
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
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.