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Cost of Living in Hays

Is it better to rent or buy in Hays? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$58,730
$1,002/mo

Median in area: $1,002

$245,442

Median in area: $245,442

$49,088

If you Rent

$1,173 /mo
Base Rent$1,002
Est. Utilities$171
% of Income24.0%
Pre-tax Residual$3,721

If you Buy

$1,833 /mo
P&I (6.928%)$1,297
Taxes & Ins$365
Est. Utilities$171
% of Income37.4%
Pre-tax Residual$3,061

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Hays?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Hays. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,173, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,833 per month (a difference of $660).

How much do utilities cost in Hays?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Hays is approximately $171. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Hays?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Hays without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $46,920 per year.