Cost of Living in Kansas
Things cost about ▼ 10% less in Kansas than the national average.
What Things Cost in Kansas
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Kansas offers deeply affordable living, with costs about 11% below the national average and housing roughly 27% below. The Kansas City metro, which straddles the Kansas-Missouri border, gives residents access to a legitimate metro area at Midwestern prices. Overland Park and Olathe on the Kansas side are consistently rated among the best suburbs in America for families. Wichita, the largest city fully within Kansas, offers an even lower cost of living centered around the aviation industry. Kansas taxes groceries at the full sales tax rate, which is unusual and hits lower-income households harder than income-based taxes would.
Kansas at a Glance
Taxes in Kansas
Kansas's state income tax tops out at Up to 5.7%. The combined sales tax averages 6.5%. Property taxes run about 1.33% of home value, which on a $195,000 median home means roughly $2,594/year.
Cities in Kansas
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Kansas
FAQ About Kansas
Yes. Kansas is about 11% below the national average, with housing roughly 27% cheaper. The median home price is about $195,000 statewide and under $300,000 in the desirable Johnson County suburbs. A major caveat is the grocery sales tax, which is higher than most states and adds to everyday costs.
Overland Park is consistently rated one of the best places to live in America. Schools are excellent, neighborhoods are safe and well-maintained, and the city has invested in parks, trails, and community amenities. The cost of living is below the national average despite the high quality of life. It's part of the Kansas City metro, so residents have access to big-city amenities while living in a family-oriented suburb.
Kansas has a graduated income tax (3.1% to 5.7%), a 6.5% state sales tax (with local additions pushing the average above 8.7%), and property taxes averaging about 1.33%. Kansas is unusual in taxing groceries at the full sales tax rate, though recent reform is phasing this down. Social Security is exempt for households earning under $75,000 AGI.