Merriam, KS

Below Avg · 81

Kansas · Population 11,036 · Updated March 2026

$1,161
Median Rent / Month
$71,665
Median Income
$242,400
Median Home Value
$1,196
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Merriam

19.4%
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

$13,932
Annual Rent
$4,085
State Income Tax
$3,418
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Merriam is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 81 (where 100 equals the national median), Merriam residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,161/month while earning a median household income of $71,665/year.

The median home value in Merriam, KS is $242,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,196 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 19.4% 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 Merriam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Merriam

What is the cost of living in Merriam, KS?
The cost of living index in Merriam, KS is 81 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,161, median household income is $71,665/year, and the median home value is $242,400.
Is Merriam, KS affordable?
Yes, Merriam is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 81. The rent-to-income ratio is 19.4%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Merriam, KS?
The median gross rent in Merriam, KS is $1,161 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,932.
What is the median household income in Merriam?
The median household income in Merriam, KS is $71,665 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%.