Cost of Living in Cherokee, KS

With a cost of living index of 59, Cherokee, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 41% cheaper than the national average and 12% below the Kansas state average of 72. Cherokee is a small community of 692 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Cherokee's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $754 (43% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $81,800 (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 Cherokee is $47,778, which is 36% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% 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 Cherokee. The area sees an average annual temperature of 56.7°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 45.8 inches spread over roughly 107 days.

Everyday prices in the Joplin, MO-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.