Russell County, Kansas
Income Data
At a Glance
How Russell County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Russell County, Kansas
Russell County Significantly Below National Income
Russell County's median household income of $53,902 lags the national median of $74,755 by $20,853—a 27.9% shortfall that ranks it among the nation's lower-income counties. Per capita income of $32,255 also falls below national and state norms, indicating broadly lower earning power across the county. This rural county faces economic headwinds common to sparsely populated agricultural regions across America.
Lowest Income County in Kansas Sample
Russell County's median household income of $53,902 ranks last among the eight counties profiled here and sits $10,526 below Kansas's state average of $64,428. The county's per capita income of $32,255 also falls well below the state's $34,748, indicating limited economic opportunity throughout the region. Russell County faces genuine affordability and opportunity challenges that require targeted policy and investment.
Lowest Earnings, but Affordable Housing Helps
Russell County's $53,902 median income is the lowest in this cohort, trailing Rooks County ($61,596) by $7,694 and Rush County by $6,386. However, the median home value of $106,400 and rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% remain manageable, actually more affordable than higher-income Riley County. This suggests Russell County households stretch incomes further through low housing costs.
Housing Affordable but Overall Budgets Tight
Russell County's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio is well below the 30% affordability threshold, and the $106,400 median home value is accessible to median-income buyers. Yet the household income of $53,902 limits discretionary spending on healthcare, education, childcare, and savings relative to national peers. Families here face trade-offs: affordable housing offsets low overall earnings but leaves little margin for emergencies or investment.
Focus on Stable Employment and Skill Development
Russell County households earning $53,902 should prioritize stable employment first, then build emergency savings of 6-12 months given limited financial cushion. Every dollar saved grows through compound interest over decades—even small contributions to retirement accounts (Roth IRA, workplace plans) build meaningful long-term wealth. Invest in job training, certifications, or education that raise earning power; moving from $53,900 to $65,000 income dramatically improves lifetime financial security.
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County median: $53,902 per year
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vs. National Median
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.