Goodland, KS vs Merriam, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Goodland is 24.5% 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 Goodland to Merriam should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Goodland is $850/month compared to $1,161/month in Merriam — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Goodland is more affordable at $112,800 median vs $242,400.

Median household income in Goodland is $53,929 compared to $71,665 in Merriam (-24.7%). While Merriam is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Goodland spend roughly 18.9% 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 Goodland. Merriam receives more rainfall at 38.1" per year compared to 19.1" in Goodland.