Cost of Living in Smith County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Smith County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Smith County ranks #284 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Smith County, Kansas
Smith County leads on affordability
Smith County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio beats both the national average and Kansas's 14.7% state average, delivering strong housing affordability. However, the median household income of $57,024 ranks lowest among these eight counties, so modest rents make all the difference.
Among Kansas's most budget-friendly
Smith County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks well below the state average of 14.7%, placing it firmly in Kansas's affordable tier. At just $601 per month, the median rent runs $186 below the state average of $787.
Lowest rents in the region
Smith County's $601 median monthly rent stands out as the cheapest in this eight-county cluster, undercut only by Stafford County ($613). For renters prioritizing low monthly costs, Smith delivers the region's best baseline price.
Ultra-affordable housing on modest income
At $601 in rent and $665 in owner costs against a $57,024 median household income, Smith County residents spend just 12–14% of earnings on housing. The median home value of $91,000 ranks among the state's lowest, matching the county's income profile.
Rock-bottom housing costs await
Smith County offers Kansas's best housing affordability story: rock-bottom rents and ownership costs on modest incomes leave room for other priorities. Relocate here if you value maximum housing equity and minimal financial strain.
Cost of Living Advisory: Smith County
Affordability Verdict
Smith County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $601/month — about 12.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Smith County is $601/month, while owner costs run $665/month. Renting saves approximately $64/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $24,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,500/year. With a median household income of $57,024, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Smith County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Smith County sits 8% less expensive than Mitchell County ($653/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Smith County
Rent Burden
12.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,331
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Smith County
Median home value is $91,000. Estimated monthly cost: $726 vs. your max of $1,331.
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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