Cost of Living in Benton, KS

With a cost of living index of 76, Benton, KS is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 24% cheaper than the national average and 4% above the Kansas state average of 72. Benton is a small community of 896 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Benton'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 $179,600 (41% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Benton is $89,531, which is 19% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% 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 Benton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 57°F, with summers averaging 78°F and winters around 35°F. Annual rainfall totals 32.6 inches spread over roughly 87 days.

Everyday prices in the Wichita, 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.