Cost of Living in Baldwin City, KS

With a cost of living index of 83, Baldwin City, KS is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 17% cheaper than the national average and 11% above the Kansas state average of 72. Baldwin City is a small community of 4,881 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Baldwin City's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,020 (23% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $242,100 (21% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Baldwin City is $81,838, which is 9% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Baldwin City. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55.2°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 35.6 inches spread over roughly 106 days.

Everyday prices in the Lawrence, 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.