Average Rent in Wichita, KS↓ Rents falling 2.2% YoY🔺 9th priciest in KS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 648,935
Market Overview
Wichita, KS has rental prices ranging from $690/month to $1,594/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $760/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $68,930/year, spending $760/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Wichita Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $995/month, Wichita ranks #9 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — pricier than 64% of all US cities in our data.
The Wichita Rental Market
The Wichita, KS area has a population of about 648,935 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Wichita, KS have fallen by $22/month (2.2%) over the past year, from $1,017 to $995. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Wichita, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,400. The local median household income of $68,930 exceeds that threshold by $38,530, making Wichita relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Wichita, KS is $207,235, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 17.4. 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 Wichita's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Hilltop ($63,049 median home value), Planeview United ($68,660 median home value), Power ($75,681 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 Wichita, 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 | — |
| 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 | — |
| Lawrence | $846 | $955 | $1,138 | $1,595 | — |
Rent or Buy in Wichita?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Wichita data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $207,235 home at 7% rate
Living in Wichita
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 WichitaIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in WichitaSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Wichita ranks statewide
⚖️Compare WichitaSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections