Hays, KS vs Parsons, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Parsons is 28.2% cheaper than Hays. With a cost index of 59 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Parsons to Hays should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hays is $890/month compared to $743/month in Parsons — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Parsons is more affordable at $70,300 median vs $220,100.

Median household income in Hays is $56,861 compared to $50,838 in Parsons (+11.8%). 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 Hays spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, more than the 17.5% in Parsons.