Paola, KS — Cost of Living & Relocation Guide
Population: 5,738
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
About Paola, KS
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Paola, KS. With a population of 5,738, Paola features a cost of living index of 102.9 (2.9% above the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $69,420 (7% below the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $300,000.
Explore our detailed crime and safety data (33% below the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare Paola with Johnson or other cities.
📅 Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS
Paola, KS Quick Facts & Key Statistics
💡City Insights
Paola scores 8/10 for affordability, 8/10 for safety, and 6/10 for family-friendliness — an excellent overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes Paola worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Living in Paola, KS
Paola, Kansas, is a charming small town located in Miami County, approximately 50 miles south of Kansas City. Founded in the 1850s, Paola is known for its rich history and friendly community. The town is nestled in a scenic area with rolling hills and lush landscapes, making it a pleasant place for outdoor activities. Paola boasts a vibrant downtown area with a mix of local shops, restaurants, and historical sites. The Miami County Historical Museum offers insights into the regional history, while the annual Paola Rodeo attracts visitors with its thrilling competitions and family-friendly atmosphere. The city is also home to several parks, including the popular Paola Lake and its adjacent recreational facilities, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Educationally, Paola is served by the Paola School District, which emphasizes strong community involvement and student achievement. With its blend of small-town charm and access to modern amenities, Paola is an attractive location for families and individuals seeking a tight-knit community with a slower pace of life, all while being close to the metropolitan allure of Kansas City.
How Paola Compares
Black line indicates US average
💵 Affordability Calculator
Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $69,420.
Income Needed to Buy
Income Needed to Rent
Pros & Cons of Moving to Paola, KS
Pros
- • Friendly community
- • Small-town charm
- • Quiet suburban area
- • Nearby parks and trails
- • Low cost of living
- • Local events and festivals
- • Affordable housing options
- • Low crime rate
- • Good for families
- • Access to local businesses
Cons
- • Less cultural diversity
- • Few kids activities available
- • Few job opportunities
- • Schools need improvement
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Public transport is lacking
- • Dependence on nearby cities
- • Economic growth is slow
- • Conservative political views
- • Limited dining variety
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Paola, KS? ▼
The cost of living in Paola, KS is 3% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 103 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Paola, KS? ▼
In Paola, KS, The median home price is $300,000. requiring approximately $107,143 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,299/month (requiring ~$51,960/year income). The local median household income is $69,420, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Paola real estate data →
Is Paola, KS a safe place to live? ▼
Paola, KS is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 15.3 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Paola crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Paola, KS? ▼
To live comfortably in Paola, KS and afford a median-priced home of $300,000, you would typically need a household income of $75,000 to $93,750 per year. The local median household income is $69,420. Renting requires approximately $51,960/year (at $1,299/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the job opportunities like in Paola, KS? ▼
Paola, KS has an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is below the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $69,420, suggesting moderate local economic conditions. View Paola employment & demographics →
Is Paola, KS growing? ▼
Paola, KS has a population of 5,738. As a smaller community, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The moderately priced housing market and competitive job market shape migration patterns. See Paola population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Paola, KS? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Paola, KS depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $300,000 is below the national average. Explore Paola on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in Paola, KS? ▼
Commute times in Paola, KS vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a smaller community, residents typically drive, as public transit is limited. The moderate cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in Paola, KS? ▼
Tax rates in Paola, KS include state and local components. The cost of living index of 103 reflects a moderate cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Paola tax information →
How does Paola, KS compare to Johnson? ▼
Paola, KS offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 103, median home prices of $300,000, and a crime rate of 15.34 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare Paola vs Johnson →
What is the weather like in Paola, KS? ▼
Weather in Paola, KS varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Paola climate & environment data →
Explore Paola in Detail
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics