Cost of Living in Wichita County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wichita County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wichita County ranks #765 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wichita County, Kansas
Wichita County: Balanced Affordability
Wichita County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.4% sits well below national affordability thresholds, supported by median household income of $71,282 near the national median of $74,755. Renters here enjoy shelter costs that consume less than typical American housing burdens.
Upper-Half Affordability in Kansas
At 12.4%, Wichita County's rent-to-income ratio beats the Kansas state average of 14.7%, positioning it among the state's more affordable markets. Median rent of $738/month runs $49 below the state average.
Moderate Costs with Low Home Values
Wichita County's $738 rent aligns with Thomas County ($753) while remaining above Wallace County ($578) and Trego County ($694), reflecting balanced regional positioning. Its median home value of $98,700 represents the region's lowest, offering exceptional entry-level homeownership.
Renters Lead, Owners Follow
Renters pay $738 monthly while owners spend $717—unusually efficient—against the $71,282 median income, consuming 12% and 12% respectively. The parity between rent and mortgage costs makes Wichita County attractive for both housing tenures.
First-Time Homebuyers Welcome Here
Wichita County combines moderate rent, low home values, and balanced affordability ratios, making it ideal for renters ready to buy. Compare its $98,700 median home value and ownership costs against neighboring counties to assess your homeownership readiness.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wichita County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Wichita County is affordable. The median rent is $738/month against a median household income of $71,282, putting rent at 12.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wichita County pay $738/month on average, compared to $717/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,729/year. With a median household income of $71,282, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 16.0% of renter households in Wichita County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Allen County where rent averages $685/month, Wichita County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wichita County
Rent Burden
12.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,663
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wichita County
Median home value is $98,700. Estimated monthly cost: $788 vs. your max of $1,663.
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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