Hays, KS vs Lenexa, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hays is 28.2% cheaper than Lenexa. With a cost index of 76 vs 106, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hays to Lenexa should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hays is $890/month compared to $1,429/month in Lenexa — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hays is more affordable at $220,100 median vs $368,800.

Median household income in Hays is $56,861 compared to $102,344 in Lenexa (-44.4%). While Lenexa is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hays spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, more than the 16.8% in Lenexa.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (54.8°F vs 55.1°F). Lenexa receives more rainfall at 37.7" per year compared to 24.8" in Hays.