Cost of Living in Kansas [2025]

Kansas stands out as a practical choice for young professionals and families looking for a balanced lifestyle of affordability and a work-life balance. Community is prioritized in Kansas with a mix of small towns and growing metro areas like Wichita, Kansas also offers plenty of breathing room without sacrificing amenities. Add in low housing costs, wide open spaces, and a relaxed pace, and it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to the Sunflower State.

When compared to nearby areas including Denver, Kansas City, MO, or Omaha, Kansas offers a notably lower cost of living. Larger areas like Overland Park are more expensive, but the majority of the state remains widely accessible to a range of budgets. Whether you're eyeing rural charm or urban convenience, Kansas offers room to grow—without stretching your paycheck too thin.

Cost of Living in Kansas

What Is the Cost of Living in Kansas?

Kansas boasts a cost of living that's 16.9% below the national average which makes day-to-day living more affordable and easier to maintain than most places in the country. Housing is a major driver of the state's affordability, with a median home value of around $194,100, far below the national median. Here's a look at how the different categories and cost of living in Kansas break down.

Where Is the Highest Cost of Living in Kansas?

Mission Hills tops the list when it comes to the most expensive places in Kansas. Dubbed the Beverly Hills of Kansas, the area is renowned for "America's first and foremost garden community," with stunning landscaping and exclusive country clubs. The overall cost of living is 6.2% higher than the U.S. average and 27.8% higher than the state average. The median home value in Mission Hills is approximately $1,307,100, well above the state average and national average.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Kansas?

Kansas is already affordable, but if you want something truly cheap, Parsons ranks as one of the most affordable places to live in Kansas. It's currently 33.6% lower than the U.S. average and 20.1% lower than the state average. Its cost of living is lower across almost every category. Here's what the data shows:

How Much Is Rent in Kansas?

We took a look at the rental data to get an idea of what renters should expect in the Sunflower State. As of spring 2025, the average rent in Kansas is $1,100 per month, which is significantly lower than the national average of $1,373. More good news for renters: Rent prices in Kansas have remained relatively stable, with only modest changes over the past year, making it a predictable market for both tenants and landlords.

Kansas ranks among the 20 most affordable states for renters, offering strong value for those seeking space, amenities, and comfort without urban price tags. Factors like smaller city populations, lower property taxes, and a steady housing supply help keep rent costs manageable throughout much of the state.

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Kansas?

Rent prices vary across different cities and regions in Kansas, but generally speaking, one-bedroom apartments are reasonably priced. Kansas City averages around $861 per month, while Topeka hovers near $829. Even in larger metro areas like Wichita, prices for a one-bedroom remain well below the national average, offering plenty of options for singles and couples alike. Here's a breakdown of one-bedroom rents in some of the larger cities in Kansas.

How Much is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Kansas?

The average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Kansas is approximately $1,293 per month, a figure that is just slightly below the national average by about $65. Families and roommates will find Kansas particularly attractive for multi-bedroom living, with many cities offering units below the $1,200 mark.

Some of the most expensive rents are in Overland Park where two-bedroom apartments cost about $1,625, while Wichita offers a more affordable $1,036 rate. This range of options makes Kansas a flexible state for renters at any life stage.

How Much Is Housing in Kansas?

If you're thinking about home ownership in the future, you'll find affordable options throughout Kansas. The median home prices in Kansas are $194,100, substantially more affordable than the national figure of $338,100. Even in more expensive markets like Overland Park, buyers can find homes for less than what similar properties cost in major metro areas across the country. Kansas also offers a wide range of property types, from quaint farmhouses and expansive ranches to affordable starter homes and new developments.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Kansas?

Now that you have an idea of rents in Kansas, it's time to think about what kind of salary you need for your next apartment. We recommend sticking to the 30% rule, which suggests spending no more than 30% of your gross income on housing. In Kansas, the overall one-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $1,206 a month, which means you should earn at least $48,420 a year, $4,035 a month, or about $23.28 an hour.

Before you sign your next lease, take a look at the living wage in Kanas. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult in Kansas needs to earn approximately $21.06 per hour—or $40,435 per year—to meet basic living expenses before taxes. However, that figure only accounts for the essentials like housing, food, transportation and healthcare. It doesn't take into account savings, debt repayments, or travel.

We can also see what the U.S. Census Bureau data says. Their latest research shows the median household income in Kansas is $72,639, $6,053.25, or about $34.92 as of 2023. Major industries include manufacturing, agriculture, construction, mining, aerospace, logistics, energy, and healthcare, providing high salaries for locals.

How Much Is Transportation in Kansas?

Kansas has decent public transportation options if you live in a large city like Kansas City. Their RideKC fares offer zero-fare zones, $1.50 metro transit zones, or monthly passes of about $90. With limited public transit options outside of Kansas City, most residents rely on their own cars. The good news is commute times are relatively short and gas prices are reasonable to keep costs down, though rural areas often require longer drives for work or errands.

To get an idea of what you'll spend on transportation per year, we looked at MIT's living wage data. A single adult will spend around $10,464 per year on transportation. A family of two working adults and two children will spend $17,552 per year.

How Much Are Groceries in Kansas?

Food is always a significant expenditure in a monthly budget, but fortunately, grocery costs in Kansas are below the national average. According to MIT's living wage data, annual food expenses for a single adult are about $3,973, while a family of four spends roughly $11,682.

We can also look at more specific data. In Kansas City, the annual food costs for a single adult are $4,287 and for a family of four are $12,567. In Wichita, the costs are $4,143 for a single adult and $12,144 for a family of four.

Numbeo has research on specific food costs, from what different meals cost at restaurants to the price of bread and milk at the grocery store. Here's how some of those costs break down in different cities:

Kansas City

• Three-course meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant: $65
• Inexpensive meal in a casual dining restaurant: $20
• Milk: $3.73
• Bread: $3.16

Wichita

• Three-course meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant: $60
• Inexpensive meal in a casual dining restaurant: $20
• Milk: $3.49
• Bread: $3.30

Topeka

• Three-course meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant: $54
• Inexpensive meal in a casual dining restaurant: $13.50
• Milk: $3.05
• Bread: $2.84

As you can see, food prices are reasonable around Kansas, especially if you plan to eat at home. But make sure to leave some room in your budget for Kansas City-style barbecue, a must for locals and visitors alike. Burnt Ends are also a famous staple worthy of your budget, made from crispy pieces of brisket. Beyond the barbecue, try Bierocks for savory pastry pockets filled with seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions. Or dish up a hearty dish of chicken-fried steak.

How Much Is Child Care in Kansas?

Families also need to find room for child care in their budget. Fortunately, child care in Kansas is moderately priced but still represents a major expense next to rent and food. The average annual cost is about $8,392 for one child and $16,178 for two, based on MIT’s calculator. Parents looking to manage expenses could also consider part-time care around a remote work schedule or shared child care arrangements with another family. Where you live also matters. Areas like Wichita offer more affordable options than higher-income cities like Overland Park.

How Much Is Healthcare in Kansas?

Healthcare is never something you should cut corners on, and costs in Kansas are close to national averages. A single adult pays around $3,582 annually, while a family of four incurs costs closer to $9,868. Costs can vary based on location and coverage type, but overall, Kansas offers fairly predictable healthcare spending, with a range of options including community clinics, private practices, and regional hospitals.

How Much Are Utilities in Kansas?

You won't need to spend a bundle on utilities while living in Kansas, although Wichita is more expensive than other areas. Temperatures in Kansas are relatively mild, with winters dipping to about 31°F. Summers enjoy highs in the 80°F range and spring and fall are between 50°F and 70°F. Here are some costs for basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment.

Kansas City

$218.18 (+ $53.12 for Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)

Wichita

$319.99 (+ $72.22 for Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL))

Topeka

$111.17 (+ $64.14 for Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)

You can compare these costs to the U.S. average of $208.56, plus another $71.61 for Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL). If you want to save even more, look for deals on bundling together your Internet, cable, and cell phone plan into one to cut your costs.

Kansas Fitness and Entertainment

Kansas makes it easy to enjoy an active lifestyle with plenty of outlets for affordable fun. In Kansas City, you'll spend around $15 on a cinema tickets and $113.33 on a gym membership. In Topeka, you'll spend $57.50 on a fitness membership and $12.50 for cinema tickets. Those trips to the movies don't include snacks and drinks. If you want to save money, look for an apartment complex with an on-site fitness center, or create your own at home.

Most state parks in Kansas cost around $5 to $6 per vehicle, a steal for the miles of hiking and biking trails. Try the scenic Smoky Hills region of Kanapolis State Park or the mountain biking hotspot at Clinton State Park. There's also unique geological formations and hiking trails at Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park.

How Much Are Taxes in Kansas?

There's still more to consider with the cost of living in Kansas. The state has a state income tax that ranges from 3.1% to 5.7% depending on income level. The state's sales tax rate is 6.5%, with combined local rates bringing the average up to about 8.7%. Property taxes in Kansas are higher than in many other states, with an average effective rate of 1.33%, though home values help offset the burden. There is no estate tax or inheritance tax, making Kansas a relatively favorable tax state overall.

Kansas’s Job Market

Kansas’s job market remains strong and steady in 2025, with a statewide unemployment rate of 3.1%, below the national average of 4.2%. Wichita and Overland Park continue to see job growth in manufacturing, healthcare, and tech. New investments in aviation and logistics are also boosting employment in regional hubs. The state expects to add roughly 50,000 jobs between 2024 and 2026, with moderate wage growth projected across several industries.

Find Your Next Apartment in Kansas

If you’re looking for affordability, room to grow, and a community that feels like home, Kansas delivers. Whether you’re relocating to a quiet town like Salina or a larger city like Wichita, there’s a neighborhood and budget fit for everyone. Ready to make the move? Start your Kansas apartment search today with Apartment List. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Kansas in 2025

What is the average housing cost in Kansas?

Kansas continues to stand out in 2025 for its affordable housing market. The typical home is valued at around $194,100—well below the national median. Renters also benefit, with average monthly rent coming in at roughly $1,100, securing the state a spot among the 15 most cost-effective places to rent in the U.S.

What is the cheapest rent in Kansas?

The cheapest rents in Kansas are one bedroom apartments. In Kansas City, the median one-bedroom rent is $861. In Topeka, the median one-bedroom rent is $829. In Wichita, the median one-bedroom rent is $803. You can look to more rural areas and suburbs to save even more money on rent.

Is Kansas a good place to live?

Kansas is an appealing place to call home, thanks to its mix of affordability, welcoming communities, and steady pace of life. With a cost of living that sits comfortably below the national average, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to make the most of their income. Whether you’re after wide-open spaces, friendly neighborhoods, or easy access to parks and small-town charm, Kansas has something for everyone. From vibrant Overland Park to budget-friendly Topeka, there’s no shortage of great places to settle down.

How many people live in Kansas?

As of July 1, 2024, Kansas' estimated population was 2,970,606. That figure grew from 2,937,835 in 2020, showing a nearly 32,771 increase in population.