Otis, KS
Population 434 · Kansas
About Otis, KS
Otis is a small community located in Kansas with a population of 434 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,111 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.9 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 Otis features a median home value of $63,100, which is 74% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Otis one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $964, 17% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 148 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (112 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (10 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Otis shows an unemployment rate of 2.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Otis have an average one-way commute time of 35.3 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
4.2% of Otis 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 6.7% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Otis, KS
Compared to national averages, Otis has a median household income of $61,111 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $63,100, which is 74% below the national median. Monthly rent at $964 is 17% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Otis's income is 4% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 45% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Otis, KS?
Otis offers affordable housing with a median home value of $63,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $964/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.2%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,111) that falls below the national average. However, Otis’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Otis has a population of 434 with a median age of 26.9 years. Compare Otis with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Otis
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claflin | 434 | $61,250 | $101,900 | Compare |
| Assaria | 433 | $81,333 | $146,400 | Compare |
| White City | 439 | $49,545 | $67,500 | Compare |
| Brewster | 440 | $63,333 | $126,400 | Compare |
| Little River | 427 | $60,500 | $110,800 | Compare |
| Hartford | 442 | $59,375 | $69,400 | Compare |
| La Harpe | 424 | $43,167 | $54,900 | Compare |
| Miltonvale | 422 | $51,146 | $57,500 | 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 Otis With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Otis
What is the population of Otis, KS?
The population of Otis, KS is 434 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Otis?
The median household income in Otis, KS is $61,111 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Otis?
The median home value in Otis, KS is $63,100, which is 74% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Otis?
The median monthly rent in Otis, KS is $964, which is 17% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Otis?
The unemployment rate in Otis, KS is 2.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Otis, KS a good place to live?
Otis offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 434 and a median age of 26.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Otis, KS?
4.2% of residents in Otis 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 Otis?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Otis, KS: median home value is $63,100 (74% below national), median rent is $964/month, and median household income is $61,111. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Otis?
The poverty rate in Otis, KS is 17.5%, 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 Otis, KS?
Otis's population is 6.7% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.