Waverly, KS
Population 528 · Kansas
About Waverly, KS
Waverly is a small community located in Kansas with a population of 528 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,958 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Waverly features a median home value of $85,000, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Waverly one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $935, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 266 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (165 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (60 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Waverly shows an unemployment rate of 18.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Waverly have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.5% of Waverly 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 2.8% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Waverly, KS
Compared to national averages, Waverly has a median household income of $58,958 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,000, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $935 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Waverly's income is 8% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 25% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Waverly, KS?
Waverly offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $935/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.2%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,958) that falls below the national average. However, Waverly’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Waverly has a population of 528 with a median age of 43.2 years. Compare Waverly with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
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Economy & Education
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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 Waverly
What is the population of Waverly, KS?
The population of Waverly, KS is 528 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 Waverly?
The median household income in Waverly, KS is $58,958 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Waverly?
The median home value in Waverly, KS is $85,000, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Waverly?
The median monthly rent in Waverly, KS is $935, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Waverly?
The unemployment rate in Waverly, KS is 18.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Waverly, KS a good place to live?
Waverly offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 528 and a median age of 43.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Waverly, KS?
13.5% of residents in Waverly 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 Waverly?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Waverly, KS: median home value is $85,000 (65% below national), median rent is $935/month, and median household income is $58,958. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Waverly?
The poverty rate in Waverly, KS is 11.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Waverly, KS?
Waverly's population is 2.8% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.