Hutchinson, KS vs Lawrence, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hutchinson is 20.8% cheaper than Lawrence. With a cost index of 68 vs 86, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hutchinson to Lawrence should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hutchinson is $883/month compared to $1,054/month in Lawrence — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hutchinson is more affordable at $122,600 median vs $269,500.

Median household income in Hutchinson is $58,801 compared to $62,838 in Lawrence (-6.4%). Lawrence 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 Hutchinson spend roughly 18% of their income on rent, less than the 20.1% in Lawrence.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (56.1°F vs 55.2°F). Lawrence receives more rainfall at 35.6" per year compared to 28.3" in Hutchinson.