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Vast open skies, low traffic and affordable homes are what make Kansas a desirable place to live. Kansas might be what you need if you’re looking to stretch your budget without giving up comfort or community. While it’s easy to associate the state with sunflowers and flat land, Kansas also delivers practical perks like low costs for housing, utility bills and colleges while offering you a laid-back pace of life that appeals to families, retirees and remote workers.
Here’s the cost of living in Kansas, from groceries to health care and everything in between.
How Much Is the Income in Kansas?
Kansas ranks 41st among the most expensive states to live in, making it one of the top 10 most affordable places in the continental U.S. to lay down roots. Government employees in Kansas State earn an average of $56,085 before taxes, while the average monthly salary for workers in the state is $3,978 after taxes and can cover living costs for two months. Top government salaries, such as the athletics director at the University of Kansas, check in at $1,376,464 per annum.
Top career paths include health care, engineering and management in Overland Park, Wichita and Shawnee, KS.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Kansas?
Life in Kansas State is 1.16 times more affordable than most of the continental U.S., and the average monthly cost of living is $1,949 for one person, including rent, and $4,441 for a family of four. The cost of living index is set at 87.5, well below the national average of 100.
The average hourly salary for a registered nurse is $41,08, while those in education earn an annual wage of $51,820, and managers top out at $119,990 per year. Despite New Yorkers earning more at an average of $51,646 per annum, the cost of living there is $4,184 per month, versus $1,826 in Wichita, KS.
Other cities in Kansas with their monthly living costs per person to consider moving to include:
- Lawrence — $1,739
- Topeka — $1,558
- Leavenworth — $2,079
- Pittsburg — $1,862
- Liberal — $1,724
How Much to Buy or Rent a Home in Kansas?
Kansas real estate is known for its homeowner-friendly prices. The property median value is $243,092 — a bargain at 68% of the typical U.S. price, unless you’re selling. For those starting out, rentals are $1,400 per month, an increase of $155 per month from the previous year. Shop around for some bargains, and you might pick up an apartment in Lawrence for less than $1,311 per month.
How Much Does Health Care Cost in Kansas?
Your next monthly expense is likely health insurance, and like many states, Kansas has seen a 7% increase from the previous year to $642 per month, depending on your chosen provider. This is when you’re a 40-year-old on a silver plan. While this may seem steep, it’s almost a hundred dollars less than neighboring Nebraska.
How Much Is the Grocery Cost in Kansas?
What will your basket cost at checkout in Kansas? You’ll smile at the average of $261,35 per person per month, with essentials like milk, bread and eggs costing between $2,45 -$3,50.
How Much Do Utilities Cost in Kansas?
Utilities are where many people start sweating, but Kansas is a fairly affordable place to keep the lights on and the tap filled. Total monthly utilities average at $464, while a more detailed breakdown could look like the following:
- Power usage — $113,52
- Natural gas — $65,11
- Water use — $38
- Sewage — $57
- Trash — $62,5
- Internet — $64,70
- Phone — $66
How Much Is Transportation in Kansas?
Filling up your tank in Kansas is substantially cheaper than in other states. A gallon of regular fuel costs $2,847, and the national average is $3,140. If you drive a truck, you’ll pay $3,485 per gallon. If you rely on public transportation, several zero-charge services and subsidized options are available in major metros. Most paid services offer discounts to seniors and students.
How Much Is Education in Kansas?
Getting your college degree in Kansas is reasonably priced. The average cost per year for in-state students for tuition and fees is $9,274 — $476 less than the national average — while states like New Jersey charge $28,335 for a year of schooling. Private colleges have increased fees by 6.34%, and universities charge in-state students $21,516 per year.
How Much Are the Tax Rates in Kansas?
One of the least-desired costs of living is taxes. Kansas follows an individual income tax, ranging from 3.10% to 5.70%, depending on your work type. Sales tax, charged on all purchased goods, averages 6.50% across state and local rates. Most Kansans pay and annual average tax collection of $5,945 per year.
Property taxes are lenient at only 1.26% if your property is owner-occupied. The state is also well ranked, 33rd in taxes applicable on beer, making it a good place to have a cold one without paying excess for each bottle.
Is It Expensive to Live in Kansas?
Overall, living in Kansas is affordable. The state offers affordable rent and property with low residential taxes. Meeting your monthly grocery bill won’t leave you in tears, and it’s a great place to send your kids to college. Filling up your car is cheaper, and fantastic places are nearby.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Kansas?
A livable wage in Kansas is $21.06 per hour, with most people earning enough to cover their costs for two months. As a single person, you’ll need to earn $1,949 to cover your basics like rent, groceries, medical insurance, utilities and internet. Ensure you put some money away for a rainy day, and you should have enough left to live comfortably in the Sunflower State.
Is Kansas a Good Place to Live?
The cost of living in Kansas is lower than the national average, and most jobs pay more than that. It also offers various perks like affordable housing, utilities, fuel prices and education. It’s a great place to raise a family, invest in property and create your legacy.
If you’re considering moving, you should take a vacation here to try the vibe in different cities in Kansas, until you find the place you want to call home. Try Kansas City, Lawrence or Topeka for a lively atmosphere, and Emporia for a quieter lifestyle.
About The Author
Rose is the managing editor of Renovated and a dedicated freelance writer with over six years of experience in the home and garden industry. Her passion for landscaping and sustainable practices is deeply rooted in her upbringing — growing up in a family of contractors, she was exposed to the world of construction and design from a young age. This hands-on experience fostered her love for nature and gardening, giving her a green thumb and a keen eye for creating beautiful outdoor spaces.
Throughout her career, Rose has honed her expertise in researching and writing about sustainable construction practices, focusing on innovative technologies that enhance the built environment while minimizing environmental impact. She is particularly interested in green roofing, water-efficient landscaping, and integrating native plants in design, all reflecting her commitment to sustainability. Rose's work has appeared in various publications, where she shares valuable insights and practical tips for seasoned professionals and novice DIY-ers.
In addition to her writing, Rose enjoys collaborating with landscape architects and contractors on projects that emphasize eco-friendly design and sustainable materials. She believes that every garden has the potential to be a vibrant ecosystem and works to inspire others to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.
