The cost of living in Kansas is quite low, making it an appealing choice for those seeking affordability. Whether you’re considering an apartment in Overland Park or a home in Wichita, housing options across the state cater to a variety of budgets. With reasonable costs for essentials like groceries, transportation, and utilities, Kansas provides an opportunity to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.
Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Kansas
Housing costs in Kansas are a standout feature of the state’s overall affordability. With the average rent in Kansas at $930, well below the national average rent of $1,645, residents enjoy significant savings on monthly living expenses. Cities like Overland Park offer higher-end options for those seeking modern apartments and amenities, while areas like Wichita provide more budget-friendly opportunities for homeownership. For buyers, the median home price in Kansas is just $290,000, notably lower than the national median, making the state an excellent choice for those looking to buy a home. This affordability is a key factor in the competitive cost of living in Kansas, making it an attractive option for tho.
Kansas housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices
| City in Kansas | 1 Bed Avg. Rent | 2 Bed Avg. Rent | Median Home Sale Price |
| National Average | $1,495 | $1,725 | $428,000 |
| Kansas City | $910 | $920 | $229,000 |
| Lawrence | $855 | $1,160 | $320,000 |
| Lenexa | $1,890 | $2,260 | $477,000 |
| Manhattan | $950 | $1,190 | $284,000 |
| Olathe | $1,650 | $1,870 | $419,000 |
| Overland Park | $1,640 | $1,850 | $460,500 |
| Topeka | $865 | $965 | $185,000 |
| Wichita | $900 | $1,060 | $228,000 |
Housing costs in popular cities in Kansas
Kansas City
Kansas City offers a blend of urban amenities and Midwest charm, making it an appealing option for those seeking affordable living. Rent here is remarkably budget-friendly, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging $910 and a two-bedroom at $920—both far below the national average rent of $1,645 and even slightly below the average rent in Kansas of $930. The median home sale price in Kansas City is around $229,000, offering accessible opportunities for first-time buyers. With its vibrant neighborhoods and proximity to entertainment, Kansas City balances affordability with a lively lifestyle, contributing to the overall reasonable cost of living in Kansas.
Overland Park
As one of Kansas’ most desirable areas, Overland Park pairs upscale living with a higher price tag. The average rent in Overland Park reflects its premium offerings, with one-bedroom apartments at $1,640 and two-bedrooms reaching $1,850. The median home sale price is $460,500, significantly above both the state and national medians. However, the area’s excellent schools, abundant parks, and robust job market make it worth the investment for many. While housing costs here skew higher, they align with Overland Park’s reputation as a thriving, sought-after community, making it a standout option despite Kansas’ otherwise lower cost of living.
Topeka
Topeka, Kansas’ capital city, is a hub of affordability and accessibility. With a one-bedroom apartment averaging $865 and a two-bedroom at $965, rents in Topeka sit well below both state and national averages, making it a practical choice for those on tighter budgets. The median home price is just $185,000, offering an incredibly affordable path to homeownership. With its historic charm, easy access to amenities, and a relaxed pace of life, Topeka remains a great option for anyone mindful of the cost of living in Kansas.
Varied utility costs across Kansas, but overall they remain manageable
Utility costs in Kansas are relatively affordable compared to the national average, which helps to keep the cost of living in Kansas manageable. While utility costs can fluctuate depending on location and household size, residents pay about $319.94 per month on average for basic utilities, including electricity, water, gas, and sewer services. When you factor in internet and phone bills, the total cost comes to roughly $599.94, which is below the national average of $609.90. While utility costs can fluctuate depending on location and household size, Kansas generally offers more affordable options for maintaining a comfortable living space.
Utility bill comparisons: KS cities vs. nationwide average
| Monthly Energy Bill | Monthly Phone Bill | Comparison to National Avg. | |
| National Average | $203.40 | $194.11 | |
| Kansas City | $222.78 | $201.70 | +7% more |
| Manhattan | $204.01 | $204.01 | +2% more |
| Topeka | $183.39 | $204.09 | -4% less |
| Wichita | $195.62 | $201.65 | -1% less |
Kansas is the second cheapest state in the U.S. for grocery costs
Grocery costs in Kansas are notably affordable, making it one of the most budget-friendly states in the country. The average monthly grocery bill in Kansas is $261.35, which is about 26% lower than the national average of $354.50. This places Kansas just behind New Hampshire as the second cheapest state for groceries. This affordability is a key factor contributing to the overall cost of living in Kansas, allowing residents to stretch their budgets further and enjoy a higher quality of life without breaking the bank. Whether you’re stocking up for the week or preparing a big family meal, you’ll find Kansas grocery costs to be refreshingly reasonable.
Low transportation costs contribute to the affordable cost of living in Kansas
Transportation costs in Kansas are generally lower than the national average, especially when it comes to fuel. With an average gas price of $2.68 per gallon, residents pay about 12% less than the national average of $3.05 per gallon, making it more affordable to get around. For car owners, typical yearly expenses include vehicle maintenance, registration fees, and auto insurance, all of which are relatively inexpensive compared to many other states. Registration fees vary depending on the vehicle, but they generally remain lower than in more urbanized areas. Kansas also offers a more car-dependent lifestyle, with limited public transportation options in many areas. While larger cities like Kansas City and Topeka do have bus services, they aren’t as extensive or frequent as those in more densely populated regions. Overall, the cost of living in Kansas benefits from lower transportation costs, making it easier for residents to afford their daily commutes and travel.
Kansas residents benefit from affordable healthcare costs
Healthcare costs in Kansas can vary based on your personal needs, coverage, and location. Whether you’re paying for insurance, out-of-pocket expenses, or copays, the cost of medical care here is generally lower than the national average. For example, the average cost of a dental visit in Kansas is about 10% lower than the national average, with Wichita’s average dentist fee at $102.40 and Kansas City’s at $106.30, compared to the national average of $116.86. Doctor’s visits also cost less in Kansas, with Wichita’s average at $111.66 and Kansas City’s at $94.48, both well below the national average of $142.74. While healthcare costs in Kansas are generally more affordable than the national norm, it’s important to remember that prices can still differ depending on your specific healthcare needs and where you live in the state.
Moderate taxes in Kansas benefit the overall cost of living
Kansas taxes are relatively straightforward, with a progressive state income tax system ranging from 3.10% to 5.70%. The state also has a 6.50% sales tax rate, and when combined with local taxes, the average sales tax rate in Kansas is 8.65%, which is slightly above the national average. For homeowners, the effective property tax rate on owner-occupied housing is 1.26%, which is relatively moderate compared to other states in the U.S.. While taxes in Kansas aren’t the lowest, they remain manageable, and the overall tax burden can still be considered reasonable in the context of the state’s cost of living.
How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Kansas?
To live comfortably in Kansas, it’s helpful to follow the “30% rule,” which suggests that no more than 30% of your gross income should go toward housing costs. The average rent in Kansas is $930, so based on the 30% rule, you should aim for a monthly income of at least $3,100 to keep housing affordable. However, in higher-cost areas like Overland Park, where the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,850, you’d need a monthly income of about $6,167. This is a more realistic target for those looking to live comfortably in pricier parts of the state, particularly with Kansas City’s upscale neighborhoods. Keep in mind that while housing remains affordable in many areas, there are regional variations that can impact your budget.
