Hays, KS vs Wellington, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Wellington is 21.9% cheaper than Hays. With a cost index of 63 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Wellington to Hays should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hays is $890/month compared to $786/month in Wellington — a 13% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wellington is more affordable at $90,000 median vs $220,100.

Median household income in Hays is $56,861 compared to $49,526 in Wellington (+14.8%). The higher salaries in Hays partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Hays spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 19% in Wellington.