Cost of Living in Harper, KS

With a cost of living index of 62, Harper, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 38% cheaper than the national average and 9% below the Kansas state average of 72. Harper is a small community of 1,191 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Harper's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $809 (39% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $80,300 (74% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Harper is $58,839, which is 22% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% 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 Harper. The area sees an average annual temperature of 57.4°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 33.1 inches spread over roughly 78 days.

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.