Palmer, KS
Population 138 · Kansas
About Palmer, KS
Palmer is a small community located in Kansas with a population of 138 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,250 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Palmer features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Palmer one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $563, 52% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 66 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (36 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (22 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Palmer shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 23.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Palmer have an average one-way commute time of 16.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.7% of Palmer 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 24.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 4.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Palmer Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Palmer, KS
Compared to national averages, Palmer has a median household income of $46,250 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $563 is 52% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Palmer's income is 28% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 100% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Palmer, KS?
Palmer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $563/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 16.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,250) that falls below the national average. However, Palmer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Palmer has a population of 138 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Palmer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Palmer
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beverly | 138 | $40,625 | $45,000 | Compare |
| Muscotah | 138 | $0 | $58,000 | Compare |
| Neosho Falls | 139 | $47,750 | $14,200 | Compare |
| Bendena | 140 | $91,488 | $182,700 | Compare |
| Kickapoo Tribal Center | 136 | $31,750 | $47,200 | Compare |
| White Cloud | 136 | $35,417 | $56,300 | Compare |
| Elk Falls | 135 | $62,500 | $56,700 | Compare |
| Long Island | 143 | $69,375 | $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 Palmer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Palmer
What is the population of Palmer, KS?
The population of Palmer, KS is 138 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 Palmer?
The median household income in Palmer, KS is $46,250 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Palmer?
The median home value in Palmer, KS is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Palmer?
The median monthly rent in Palmer, KS is $563, which is 52% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Palmer?
The unemployment rate in Palmer, KS is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Palmer, KS a good place to live?
Palmer offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 138 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Palmer, KS?
24.7% of residents in Palmer 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 Palmer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Palmer, KS: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $563/month, and median household income is $46,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Palmer?
The poverty rate in Palmer, KS is 23.9%, 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 Palmer, KS?
Palmer's population is 24.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.3% of residents are foreign-born.