Cost of Living in Salina, KS
Population 46,432 · Kansas · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Salina's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $60,624 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail.
Salina lies roughly 80 miles north of the nearest major metro, Wichita — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 8% lower than Wichita's $180,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Salina
The median home value in Salina is $164,500 — 46% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $911/month, 31% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $60,624/year is 19% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.0%, below the national average of 4.8%. Kansas's top state income tax rate is 5.7% and the combined sales tax is 8.6%. Overall, Salina has a cost of living index of 60 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 40% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Salina, KS?
Salina has a cost index of 60 (100 = national average). It is 40% below the national average.
What is average rent in Salina, KS?
The median gross rent in Salina is $911 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Salina?
The median home value in Salina is $164,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Salina?
The median household income in Salina is $60,624 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Salina, KS?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Salina is 8.6%. The Kansas state income tax top rate is 5.7%.
Is Salina, KS affordable?
Yes, Salina is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 60 — about 40% below the US national average of 100.
Salina at a Glance
- Population
- 46,432
- Median Income
- $60,624
- Home Value
- $164,500
- Median Rent
- $911/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.0%
- Sales Tax
- 8.6%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Kansas Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs