Cost of Living in West Mineral, KS

With a cost of living index of 72, West Mineral, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Kansas state average. West Mineral is a small community of 155 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in West Mineral's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,300 (1% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $36,800 (88% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 0.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in West Mineral is $40,417, which is 46% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 39% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Everyday prices in the Joplin, MO-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.