Average Rent in Ness County, KS↓ Rents falling 1.1% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in KS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 2,659
Market Overview
Ness County, KS has rental prices ranging from $625/month to $1,251/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $665/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $66,107/year, spending $665/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Ness County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $872/month, Ness County ranks #95 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — more affordable than 86% of all US cities in our data.
The Ness County Rental Market
The Ness County, KS area has a population of about 2,659 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Ness County, KS have fallen by $10/month (1.1%) over the past year, from $882 to $872. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Ness County, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,600. The local median household income of $66,107 exceeds that threshold by $39,507, making Ness County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Ness County, KS has an unemployment rate of 2.7%, 1.2 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Ness County, KS Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in KSlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $1,074 | $1,183 | $1,346 | $1,756 | — |
| Wichita | $690 | $760 | $995 | $1,305 | — |
| Topeka | $747 | $752 | $985 | $1,280 | — |
| Geary County | $753 | $758 | $994 | $1,393 | — |
| Manhattan | $808 | $813 | $995 | $1,359 | — |
| St. Joseph | $710 | $789 | $1,035 | $1,315 | — |
Rent or Buy in Ness County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Ness County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Ness County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Ness CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Ness County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Ness CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections