Sterling, KS
Population 2,396 · Kansas
About Sterling, KS
Sterling is a small community in Kansas with a population of 2,396 residents. The median household income is $51,304 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Sterling is 27.7 years.
Housing in Sterling has a median home value of $130,200 and median monthly rent of $618. Of the 934 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 609 owner-occupied and 200 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 1.9% and the poverty rate is 4.9%. 36.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Sterling, KS
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $51,304 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $130,200, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $618 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Sterling's income is 20% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 14% above the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Sterling, KS?
Sterling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $130,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $618/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 36.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,304) that falls below the national average. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 2,396 with a median age of 27.7 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheney | 2,386 | $75,263 | $148,000 | Compare |
| Halstead | 2,435 | $68,750 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Sabetha | 2,326 | $67,794 | $146,000 | Compare |
| Neodesha | 2,311 | $48,532 | $88,500 | Compare |
| Council Grove | 2,487 | $56,211 | $131,500 | Compare |
| Eureka | 2,271 | $45,121 | $73,100 | Compare |
| Clearwater | 2,536 | $72,266 | $191,500 | Compare |
| Anthony | 2,228 | $51,047 | $57,000 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, KS?
The population of Sterling, KS is 2,396 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, KS is $51,304 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, KS is $130,200.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, KS is $618.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, KS is 1.9%.