Cost of Living in Oskaloosa, KS

With a cost of living index of 68, Oskaloosa, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 3% below the Kansas state average of 72. Oskaloosa is a small community of 1,172 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Oskaloosa's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $863 (35% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $145,000 (52% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Oskaloosa is $79,250, which is 5% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Everyday prices in the Topeka, 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.