Hugoton, KS vs Merriam, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hugoton is 21.4% cheaper than Merriam. With a cost index of 69 vs 88, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hugoton to Merriam should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hugoton is $925/month compared to $1,161/month in Merriam — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hugoton is more affordable at $118,400 median vs $242,400.

Median household income in Hugoton is $60,437 compared to $71,665 in Merriam (-15.7%). The higher salaries in Merriam partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Hugoton spend roughly 18.4% of their income on rent, less than the 19.4% in Merriam.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (57.6°F vs 56.9°F). Merriam receives more rainfall at 38.1" per year compared to 17.8" in Hugoton.