Plains, KS
Population 1,308 · Kansas
About Plains, KS
Plains is a small town located in Kansas with a population of 1,308 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,500 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.8 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 Plains features a median home value of $127,700, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Plains one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $785, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 491 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (305 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (97 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plains shows an unemployment rate of 1.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 10.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Plains have an average one-way commute time of 14.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.2% of Plains 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 46.8% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.9% Asian residents, with 21.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plains, KS
Compared to national averages, Plains has a median household income of $75,500 (0% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $127,700, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $785 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Plains's income is 18% above the state average of $63,989, and home values are 12% above the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Plains, KS?
Plains offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,500, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $127,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $785/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.6%, and a low poverty rate of 10.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 14.5 minutes.
Plains has a population of 1,308 with a median age of 26.8 years. Compare Plains with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Plains
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buhler | 1,311 | $65,833 | $126,000 | Compare |
| Valley Falls | 1,305 | $43,333 | $118,200 | Compare |
| Erie | 1,318 | $39,688 | $89,600 | Compare |
| Kinsley | 1,342 | $48,935 | $59,900 | Compare |
| Meade | 1,274 | $73,990 | $97,100 | Compare |
| St. Francis | 1,268 | $45,324 | $95,000 | Compare |
| Andale | 1,259 | $99,063 | $255,800 | Compare |
| Carbondale | 1,361 | $67,578 | $112,300 | 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 Plains With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plains
What is the population of Plains, KS?
The population of Plains, KS is 1,308 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 Plains?
The median household income in Plains, KS is $75,500 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plains?
The median home value in Plains, KS is $127,700, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plains?
The median monthly rent in Plains, KS is $785, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plains?
The unemployment rate in Plains, KS is 1.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Plains, KS a good place to live?
Plains offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,308 and a median age of 26.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Plains, KS?
20.2% of residents in Plains 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 Plains?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plains, KS: median home value is $127,700 (48% below national), median rent is $785/month, and median household income is $75,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plains?
The poverty rate in Plains, KS is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Plains, KS?
Plains's population is 46.8% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.9% Asian, and 3.5% two or more races. 21.7% of residents are foreign-born.