Harper, KS
Population 1,191 · Kansas
About Harper, KS
Harper is a small town located in Kansas with a population of 1,191 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,839 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Harper features a median home value of $80,300, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Harper one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $809, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 722 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (345 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (189 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Harper shows an unemployment rate of 3.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Harper have an average one-way commute time of 16.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
10.8% of Harper residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.4% White, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 9.0% Asian residents, with 7.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Harper, KS
Compared to national averages, Harper has a median household income of $58,839 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $80,300, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $809 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Harper's income is 8% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 30% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Harper, KS?
Harper offers affordable housing with a median home value of $80,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $809/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,839) that falls below the national average. However, Harper’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harper has a population of 1,191 with a median age of 38 years. Compare Harper with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Harper
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoxie | 1,191 | $68,750 | $173,000 | Compare |
| Auburn | 1,185 | $63,382 | $135,700 | Compare |
| Lyndon | 1,184 | $70,625 | $123,900 | Compare |
| Rossville | 1,183 | $58,287 | $131,300 | Compare |
| Washington | 1,199 | $56,875 | $85,400 | Compare |
| Oskaloosa | 1,172 | $79,250 | $145,000 | Compare |
| Pomona | 1,210 | $66,071 | $126,000 | Compare |
| Elwood | 1,169 | $66,364 | $90,000 | 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 Harper With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Harper
What is the population of Harper, KS?
The population of Harper, KS is 1,191 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Harper?
The median household income in Harper, KS is $58,839 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harper?
The median home value in Harper, KS is $80,300, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Harper?
The median monthly rent in Harper, KS is $809, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harper?
The unemployment rate in Harper, KS is 3.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Harper, KS a good place to live?
Harper offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,191 and a median age of 38, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Harper, KS?
10.8% of residents in Harper 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 Harper?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harper, KS: median home value is $80,300 (67% below national), median rent is $809/month, and median household income is $58,839. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Harper?
The poverty rate in Harper, KS is 16.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Harper, KS?
Harper's population is 2.4% White, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 9.0% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 7.4% of residents are foreign-born.