Arkansas City, KS vs Baldwin City, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arkansas City is 26.2% cheaper than Baldwin City. With a cost index of 61 vs 83, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arkansas City to Baldwin City should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arkansas City is $762/month compared to $1,020/month in Baldwin City — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arkansas City is more affordable at $81,700 median vs $242,100.

Median household income in Arkansas City is $53,475 compared to $81,838 in Baldwin City (-34.7%). While Baldwin City is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Arkansas City spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, more than the 15% in Baldwin City.

Climate-wise, Arkansas City is notably warmer with an average of 58.2°F compared to 55.2°F in Baldwin City. Baldwin City receives more rainfall at 35.6" per year compared to 34.9" in Arkansas City.