New figures from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis show that Lawrence is the most expensive metro area in Kansas.
The bureau’s report shows that although the city’s cost of living is lower than the national average, it’s higher than in any other metro area in Kansas.
Lawrence residents also earn less than residents in other Kansas communities.
The new figures are part of a project by the Bureau of Economic Analysis designed to give people a better idea of how much it costs to live in various metro areas.
The agency measured both income levels and how much it costs for goods and services such as transportation, education, household staples, entertainment and other categories, based on 2012 data.
Lawrence City Commissioner Jeremy Farmer said the report isn’t too surprising.
Farmer says, "We are kind of an entertainment and service-oriented community right now. That is who we have grown to become. This speaks to the need for more primary jobs."
