Cost of Living in Washington County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #478 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 15%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Kansas
Washington County: National Affordability Leader
Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 10.5% ranks among America's most affordable housing markets, achieved despite median household income of $62,452 sitting below the national median of $74,755. The county demonstrates that lower incomes can still support excellent housing affordability through modest costs.
Kansas's Most Affordable County
Washington County's 10.5% rent-to-income ratio leads all Kansas counties, crushing the state average of 14.7% by 4.2 percentage points. Monthly rent of just $547 runs the lowest across the entire state.
Unmatched Rental Value in North-Central Kansas
Washington County's $547 rent dramatically undercuts every neighboring county, including Trego ($694), Thomas ($753), and Wabaunsee ($771)—a savings of $147 to $224 monthly. Its median home value of $106,100 also offers accessible entry to homeownership.
Exceptional Housing Efficiency
Renters dedicate just $547 monthly while owners spend $714 against the $62,452 median income, consuming only 10.5% and 13.7% respectively. This remarkable efficiency allows households to allocate minimal resources to shelter and maximum resources to savings, education, or quality of life.
America's Best Relocation Bargain
Washington County offers the rare combination of lowest rent and best affordability ratio in its region and among the nation's best overall. If housing cost is your relocation priority, this north-central Kansas county delivers measurable advantages over nearly any comparable market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Washington County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $547/month — about 10.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $547/month on average, compared to $714/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 23%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,600/year. With a median household income of $62,452, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 9% less expensive than Smith County ($601/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
10.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,457
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $106,100. Estimated monthly cost: $847 vs. your max of $1,457.
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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