Cost of Living in Clay Center, KS

With a cost of living index of 71, Clay Center, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 29% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Kansas state average. Clay Center is a small community of 4,148 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Clay Center's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $950 (28% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $133,600 (56% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Clay Center is $56,422, which is 25% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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 Clay Center. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 32.2 inches spread over roughly 89 days.

Everyday prices in the Manhattan, 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.