What is the average cost of living in Topeka Kansas?

This is from the chamber of commerce. Topeka is a very affordable place to live, especially when compared to Lawrence and KC. Topeka participates in the ACCRA Cost of Living Index study which measures differences between areas in the cost of consumer goods and services, excluding taxes and non-consumer expenditures, for professional and managerial households in the top income quintile. For the second quarter 2008, Topeka ranked 89.1 overall with the average for 318 urban areas participating being 100. The study is based on more than 60 items, for which prices are collected quarterly by the Chamber of Commerce or similar organization in each participating urban area. The composite index is based on six components--housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, health care, and miscellaneous goods and services. Small differences should not be interpreted as showing any measurable difference, according to ACCRA. Topeka ranked 92 in grocery items, 77 in housing, 93.3 in utilities, 96.3 in transportation, 93.6 in health care, and 94.6 in miscellaneous goods and services. "Our cost of living is attractive when compared to communities on the east and west coasts, as well as cities in the Midwest," says Marsha Sheahan, Chamber vice president public relations. "We are pleased to see Topeka/Shawnee County getting recognition as a great place to live and work that is cost-pleasing to the family budget.Our housing costs continue to be very affordable and we're pleased this study confirms our belief that Topeka offers a quality living experience at a below average cost."