Cost of Living in Hutchinson, KS

With a cost of living index of 68, Hutchinson, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 4% below the Kansas state average of 72. With a population of 39,837, Hutchinson is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Hutchinson's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $883 (33% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $122,600 (60% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Hutchinson is $58,801, which is 22% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% 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 Hutchinson. The area sees an average annual temperature of 56.1°F, with summers averaging 78°F and winters around 34°F. Annual rainfall totals 28.3 inches spread over roughly 85 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.