Gardner, KS
Population 24,020 · Kansas
About Gardner, KS
Gardner is a mid-sized city located in Kansas with a population of 24,020 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $92,579 per year, which is 23% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Gardner features a median home value of $276,000, which is 13% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Gardner in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,296, 11% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,478 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (5,505 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (2,670 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gardner shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Gardner have an average one-way commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.3% of Gardner residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.8% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 2.5% Asian residents, with 5.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Gardner Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Gardner, KS
Compared to national averages, Gardner has a median household income of $92,579 (23% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $276,000, which is 13% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,296 is 11% above the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Gardner's income is 45% above the state average of $63,989, and home values are 142% above the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Gardner, KS?
Gardner offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $92,579, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.3 minutes.
Gardner has a population of 24,020 with a median age of 31.3 years. Compare Gardner with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Gardner
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emporia | 24,098 | $52,787 | $127,500 | Compare |
| Prairie Village | 22,937 | $107,664 | $402,600 | Compare |
| Junction City | 22,431 | $60,317 | $162,500 | Compare |
| Derby | 25,801 | $82,089 | $221,600 | Compare |
| Hays | 21,078 | $56,861 | $220,100 | Compare |
| Pittsburg | 20,606 | $40,220 | $110,800 | Compare |
| Dodge City | 27,652 | $67,958 | $122,800 | Compare |
| Garden City | 27,781 | $72,511 | $186,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Gardner With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Gardner
What is the population of Gardner, KS?
The population of Gardner, KS is 24,020 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Gardner?
The median household income in Gardner, KS is $92,579 per year, which is 23% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gardner?
The median home value in Gardner, KS is $276,000, which is 13% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Gardner?
The median monthly rent in Gardner, KS is $1,296, which is 11% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gardner?
The unemployment rate in Gardner, KS is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Gardner, KS a good place to live?
Gardner offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 24,020 and a median age of 31.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Gardner, KS?
32.3% of residents in Gardner aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Gardner?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gardner, KS: median home value is $276,000 (13% above national), median rent is $1,296/month, and median household income is $92,579. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gardner?
The poverty rate in Gardner, KS is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Gardner, KS?
Gardner's population is 5.8% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, and 7.1% two or more races. 5.7% of residents are foreign-born.