Average Rent in Topeka, KS↑ Rents rising 2.6% YoY🔺 11th priciest in KS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 232,724
Market Overview
Topeka, KS has rental prices ranging from $747/month to $1,351/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $752/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $68,160/year, spending $752/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Topeka Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $985/month, Topeka ranks #11 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — pricier than 62% of all US cities in our data.
The Topeka Rental Market
The Topeka, KS area has a population of about 232,724 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Topeka, KS have risen by $25/month (2.6%) over the past year, from $960 to $985. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Topeka, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,080. The local median household income of $68,160 exceeds that threshold by $38,080, making Topeka relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Topeka, KS is $195,818, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 16.6. With a break-even horizon of approximately 17 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Topeka's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Central Park ($69,581 median home value), Monroe ($71,408 median home value), Ward Meade ($76,997 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Topeka, 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 | — |
| Geary County | $753 | $758 | $994 | $1,393 | — |
| Manhattan | $808 | $813 | $995 | $1,359 | — |
| St. Joseph | $710 | $789 | $1,035 | $1,315 | — |
| Lawrence | $846 | $955 | $1,138 | $1,595 | — |
Rent or Buy in Topeka?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Topeka data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $195,818 home at 7% rate
Living in Topeka
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 vs Buy in TopekaIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in TopekaSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Topeka ranks statewide
⚖️Compare TopekaSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections