Reading, KS
Population 195 · Kansas
About Reading, KS
Reading is a small community located in Kansas with a population of 195 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,938 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Reading features a median home value of $47,700, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Reading one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $675, 42% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 83 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (67 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (16 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Reading shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Reading have an average one-way commute time of 28 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.6% of Reading 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 1.0% White, 5.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Reading, KS
Compared to national averages, Reading has a median household income of $65,938 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $47,700, which is 81% below the national median. Monthly rent at $675 is 42% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Reading's income is 3% above the state average of $63,989, and home values are 58% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Reading, KS?
Reading offers affordable housing with a median home value of $47,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $675/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,938) that falls below the national average. However, Reading’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Reading has a population of 195 with a median age of 35.9 years. Compare Reading with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Reading
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
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 Reading With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Reading
What is the population of Reading, KS?
The population of Reading, KS is 195 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 Reading?
The median household income in Reading, KS is $65,938 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Reading?
The median home value in Reading, KS is $47,700, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Reading?
The median monthly rent in Reading, KS is $675, which is 42% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Reading?
The unemployment rate in Reading, KS is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Reading, KS a good place to live?
Reading offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 195 and a median age of 35.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Reading, KS?
13.6% of residents in Reading 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 Reading?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Reading, KS: median home value is $47,700 (81% below national), median rent is $675/month, and median household income is $65,938. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Reading?
The poverty rate in Reading, KS is 8.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Reading, KS?
Reading's population is 1.0% White, 5.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.