Cost of Living in Liberal, KS

With a cost of living index of 70, Liberal, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Kansas state average. Liberal is a smaller community of 19,107 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Liberal's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $931 (29% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $134,500 (56% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Liberal is $61,875, which is 18% 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 Liberal. The area sees an average annual temperature of 57.6°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 37°F. Annual rainfall totals 17.8 inches spread over roughly 69 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.