Kansas, known as the "Sunflower State", is an affordable Plains state with very low housing and moderate overall costs. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Sunflower State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Kansas for a single person earning the median income of $62,100/year:
Each category shows how Kansas compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Kansas.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Kansas.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Kansas:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Kansas, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Kansas is $215,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $900/month. With a housing cost index of 69, Kansas housing is 31% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Kansas is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Kansas has a state income tax rate of 5.7%. On the median household income of $62,100, you will pay approximately $3,540/year in state income tax ($295/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Kansas spends approximately $375/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $938-$1,125/month. The food cost index of 95 means groceries in Kansas are 5% below the national average.
Gas prices in Kansas average $3/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,800/year in fuel costs.
Kansas healthcare costs are 1% below the national average (index: 99). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Kansas is approximately $5,940 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Kansas averages $800/month ($9,600/year). This is below the national average, making Kansas more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Kansas find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Kansas is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing affordability. Your dollar stretches 11% further here than the national average. The trade-off may include fewer big-city amenities in some areas, but cities like Wichita and Overland Park offer a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
See all Kansas financial calculators:
Kansas (KS) has a cost of living index of 89, meaning it is 11% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 69. The median rent is $900/month and the median home price is $215,000. Kansas ranks #8 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Kansas is approximately $80,730/year ($6,728/month). For a family of four, aim for $136,620/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($375/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Kansas is $62,100.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kansas is approximately $900/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,215/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Kansas is affordable compared to the national average.
Kansas is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 11% below the national average and median rent of just $900/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City.
The most affordable areas in Kansas are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Kansas, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Wichita metro) and more affordable areas. Olathe and Topeka tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Kansas for a single person is approximately $375 ($938 for a family of four). Kansas food costs are 5% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Kansas is approximately $135. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $297/month. Kansas utilities are 3% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Kansas has a state income tax rate of 5.7%. On the median household income of $62,100, that is approximately $3,540/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.