Sterling, KS vs Vassar, KS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Sterling is 22.7% cheaper than Vassar. With a cost index of 61 vs 78, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Sterling to Vassar should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Sterling is $618/month compared to $1,132/month in Vassar — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Sterling is more affordable at $130,200 median vs $170,700.

Median household income in Sterling is $51,304 compared to $72,083 in Vassar (-28.8%). While Vassar is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Sterling spend roughly 14.5% of their income on rent, less than the 18.8% in Vassar.