Arkansas City, KS vs Hays, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arkansas City is 20% cheaper than Hays. With a cost index of 61 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arkansas City to Hays should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arkansas City is $762/month compared to $890/month in Hays — a 14% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arkansas City is more affordable at $81,700 median vs $220,100.

Median household income in Arkansas City is $53,475 compared to $56,861 in Hays (-6%). Hays does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Arkansas City spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, less than the 18.8% in Hays.

Climate-wise, Arkansas City is notably warmer with an average of 58.2°F compared to 54.8°F in Hays. Arkansas City receives more rainfall at 34.9" per year compared to 24.8" in Hays.