Merced vs Topeka
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Topeka is 50% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $703/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced — saving $4,224/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Topeka | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $458 | $238 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $575 | $290 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $703 | $352 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $871 | $457 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,008 | $452 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $37,700 | $23,258 |
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Topeka
- Studio
- $458/mo
- 1 BR
- $575/mo
- 2 BR
- $703/mo
- 3 BR
- $871/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,008/mo
- Median Income
- $37,700/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Topeka cheaper to rent in?
Topeka is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $703/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced. That's $352/mo or $4,224/year more expensive in Merced (50% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Topeka?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Topeka, a 2-bedroom FMR is $703/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Topeka?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Topeka it is $37,700/year. Merced has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Topeka?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Topeka it is $458/mo.