Colby, KS vs Merriam, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Colby is 24.9% cheaper than Merriam. With a cost index of 66 vs 88, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Colby to Merriam should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Colby is $736/month compared to $1,161/month in Merriam — a 37% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Colby is more affordable at $150,700 median vs $242,400.

Median household income in Colby is $66,731 compared to $71,665 in Merriam (-6.9%). Merriam 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 Colby spend roughly 13.2% of their income on rent, less than the 19.4% in Merriam.

Climate-wise, Merriam is notably warmer with an average of 56.9°F compared to 51.7°F in Colby. Merriam receives more rainfall at 38.1" per year compared to 19.1" in Colby.