Cost of Living in Alta Vista, KS

With a cost of living index of 67, Alta Vista, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 33% cheaper than the national average and 5% below the Kansas state average of 72. Alta Vista is a small community of 484 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Alta Vista's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $989 (25% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $82,800 (73% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Alta Vista is $47,500, which is 37% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 25% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Alta Vista. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 33.4 inches spread over roughly 94 days.

Everyday prices in the Topeka, KS (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.