Emporia, KS

Very Low · 51

Kansas · Population 24,098 · Updated March 2026

$793
Median Rent / Month
$52,787
Median Income
$127,500
Median Home Value
$845
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Emporia

18.0%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Kansas

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.7%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.5%
Sales Tax
1.41%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$9,516
Annual Rent
$3,009
State Income Tax
$1,798
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Emporia is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 51 (where 100 equals the national median), Emporia residents can expect to pay median rent of $793/month while earning a median household income of $52,787/year.

The median home value in Emporia, KS is $127,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $845 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Kansas has a moderate income tax rate of 5.7%. Combined with a 6.5% sales tax rate and 1.41% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Emporia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Emporia

What is the cost of living in Emporia, KS?
The cost of living index in Emporia, KS is 51 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $793, median household income is $52,787/year, and the median home value is $127,500.
Is Emporia, KS affordable?
Yes, Emporia is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 51. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Emporia, KS?
The median gross rent in Emporia, KS is $793 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,516.
What is the median household income in Emporia?
The median household income in Emporia, KS is $52,787 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Kansas?
Kansas has a top income tax rate of 5.7%, a sales tax of 6.5%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.41%.