Chanute, KS vs Hays, KS
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Chanute is 24.7% cheaper than Hays. With a cost index of 57 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Chanute to Hays should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Chanute is $653/month compared to $890/month in Hays — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chanute is more affordable at $77,900 median vs $220,100.
Median household income in Chanute is $47,885 compared to $56,861 in Hays (-15.8%). The higher salaries in Hays partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Chanute spend roughly 16.4% of their income on rent, less than the 18.8% in Hays.
Climate-wise, Chanute is notably warmer with an average of 58°F compared to 54.8°F in Hays. Chanute receives more rainfall at 40.7" per year compared to 24.8" in Hays.
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Housing
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)