Lawrence, KS

Below Avg · 80

Kansas · Population 95,459 · Updated March 2026

$1,054
Median Rent / Month
$62,838
Median Income
$269,500
Median Home Value
$1,165
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Lawrence

20.1%
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

$12,648
Annual Rent
$3,582
State Income Tax
$3,800
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Lawrence is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 80 (where 100 equals the national median), Lawrence residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,054/month while earning a median household income of $62,838/year.

The median home value in Lawrence, KS is $269,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,165 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% 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 Lawrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Lawrence

What is the cost of living in Lawrence, KS?
The cost of living index in Lawrence, KS is 80 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,054, median household income is $62,838/year, and the median home value is $269,500.
Is Lawrence, KS affordable?
Yes, Lawrence is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 80. The rent-to-income ratio is 20.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Lawrence, KS?
The median gross rent in Lawrence, KS is $1,054 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,648.
What is the median household income in Lawrence?
The median household income in Lawrence, KS is $62,838 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%.