If you’re ready to move to the Midwest, Kansas is an excellent option. The Sunflower State offers affordable living, a stable job market, and some of the country’s best barbecue. Residents are notoriously welcoming, so you’ll have nearly 3 million new friends. If you’re relocating to Kansas, consider making one of these great cities your home.
Is Kansas a good place to live?
Kansas can be a great place to live for many people due to its diverse and welcoming communities, affordable cost of living, and picturesque landscapes. Kansas offers a laid-back lifestyle and a strong sense of community, making it appealing to families and individuals alike. The state’s housing prices and overall cost of living are generally lower than the national average, providing residents with a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
Kansas boasts four distinct seasons, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination for those who enjoy experiencing all seasons. Additionally, the state offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic prairies and rolling hills. With its friendly atmosphere, affordable living, and diverse natural beauty, Kansas can provide a quality of life that many find fulfilling and enjoyable.
We’ve ranked eight popular cities in Kansas by important metrics including median rent prices, points of interest, education, healthcare, and population change. Here’s what makes each of these Kansas cities great places to live:
1. Wichita, Kansas
- Population change: C
- Median rent: B
- Points of interest: A-
- Education: A
- Health care: A
With a population of more than 39,500, Wichita is Kansas’ most populous city. Modest recent growth has kept the rent prices reasonable. Expect to pay around $700 for a one-bedroom apartment. Millennials love the buzz of Old Town, a transformed warehouse district with hip restaurants and bars like Sabor Latin Bar & Grille, Nortons Brewing Company, and Public at the Brickyard. Wichita’s A-grade education system, anchored by Wichita Unified School District and Wichita State University, also attracts families.
2. Topeka, Kansas
- Population change: D
- Median rent: A
- Points of interest: B+
- Education: A
- Health care: B
Topeka, in east Kansas, has all the features you’d expect of a capital city, including great health care facilities, like Topeka ER & Hospital, and quality schools, like Washburn University. Recent downtown renovations help you access the city’s art galleries, parks, and great restaurants like Brew Bank and El Centenario. Despite its perks, Topeka has only experienced modest population growth recently. Less demand means more choice and lower prices. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $625.
3. Manhattan, Kansas
- Population change: A
- Median rent: A
- Points of interest: D
- Education: F
- Health care: C
Manhattan, in northeast Kansas, is on the rise. More than 2,000 new residents moved in over the last two years, but the new arrivals haven’t pushed the rent sky-high. Renters pay around $595 for one-bedroom apartments. Many move to enjoy the great outdoors. Manhattan’s location, high in the Flint Hills, provides easy access to hiking and biking trails. If you prefer water sports, head to Tuttle Creek or Milford Lake for kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
4. Overland Park, Kansas
- Population change: D
- Median rent: F
- Points of interest: A-
- Education: B
- Health care: A
Overland Park in northeastern Kansas is a family-friendly city offering an excellent quality of life. Just 20 minutes from Kansas City, it’s popular with commuters seeking a quieter, less crowded place to call home. The large Overland Park Regional Medical Center helped the city earn its A grade for health care. Blue Valley, Shawnee Mission, and Olathe school districts provide quality B-grade education. The whole family is welcome, including pets. Bring your pooch to several local restaurants, including Cocobolos Mexican Grill and Cantina and The Burg & Barrel. You’ll pay more for the lifestyle with a median rent of $1,264.
5. Lawrence, Kansas
- Population change: F
- Median rent: C
- Points of interest: B-
- Education: C
- Health care: B
Lawrence is ideally located 30 minutes east of Topeka and 45 minutes west of Kansas City. While there are limited entertainment options, the great stores and restaurants boost Lawrence’s points of interest score. Hit Massachusetts Street for charming locally owned boutiques and excellent restaurants like Mass St. Fish House & Raw Bar and Merchants Pub & Plate. Rent prices are also reasonable, with a median of $780 for a one-bedroom apartment.
6. Olathe, Kansas
- Population change: B
- Median rent: D
- Points of interest: C
- Education: C
- Health care: C
Olathe’s B grade in population change shows many are discovering it’s a great place to call home. Located 20 miles southwest of Kansas City, it puts you close to big-city features but far enough away to unwind. That relaxed feel attracts families who love its schools and more than 60 parks. Olathe Public Schools District is the second-largest in the state, so you can easily find the right fit for your child. Rent prices have increased slightly over the last year to a median of $1,223 for a one-bedroom apartment.
7. Kansas City, Kansas
- Population change: C
- Median rent: C
- Points of interest: C
- Education: B
- Health care: F
Kansas City offers the perks of urban living, like a quality education system and first-class entertainment, with a small-town feel. While it’s one of Kansas’ larger cities, downtown parks provide a suburban feel. Enjoy great food at local barbecue joints like Jack Stack Barbecue or Q39, get your favorite Italian dishes at Lidia’s, or cook at home using fresh produce from the Historic City Market, the Midwest’s largest and oldest farmers market. Kansas City is also cheaper than many large cities, with a median rent of $775 for a one-bedroom apartment.
8. Lenexa, Kansas
- Population change: A
- Median rent: F
- Points of interest: C-
- Education: F
- Health care: D
Welcoming nearly 3,000 new residents in the last two years, Lenexa is another up-and-coming city. Just 13 miles from Kansas City, it suits families seeking the convenience of living near a big city without the fast pace. New arrivals have pushed the median rent of a one-bedroom apartment to $1,579, but the Lenexa lifestyle is worth paying extra for. Sample the beers at Limitless Brewing or play a round at Falcon Valley Golf Course. For outdoor adventures, hit Sa-Ko-Par Trails Park or Black Hoof Park — Lake Lenexa.
Frequently asked questions
Kansas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to many other states. Housing prices are often more affordable, and everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be reasonably priced. This makes Kansas an attractive option for those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
Kansas experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and mild winters. Spring brings thunderstorms, while autumn is marked by beautiful foliage. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations and the occasional severe weather event, such as tornadoes during the spring and summer months.
Kansas offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The state’s vast prairies, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes provide ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and boating. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and exploring numerous wildlife refuges. Additionally, Kansas is home to several state parks, such as the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and the Flint Hills, providing breathtaking landscapes for nature lovers.
Kansas has a strong education system with a focus on quality primary and secondary education. The state places a significant emphasis on supporting public schools, and there are also reputable private and charter school options available. For higher education, Kansas is home to several well-regarded universities and colleges, including the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and others, offering a wide range of academic programs.
Kansas has a rich cultural heritage, and there are numerous museums, historical sites, and art galleries that showcase the state’s history and cultural contributions. The Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchinson houses an impressive collection of space artifacts, while the Kansas Museum of History in Topeka offers insights into the state’s past. Additionally, cultural festivals and events throughout the year celebrate the diversity and traditions of Kansas’s residents.
Kansas is renowned for its family-friendly communities, safe neighborhoods, and excellent schools. The state’s focus on education, along with affordable housing options, makes it an appealing choice for families. In addition to the educational benefits, Kansas offers a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community, providing a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive.
Kansas has a well-developed healthcare system with numerous hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities spread across the state. Residents have access to quality medical care and a variety of healthcare services. Larger cities like Wichita and Topeka are home to major medical centers and specialized treatment facilities, ensuring that residents can receive comprehensive healthcare services.
Kansas has an extensive transportation network, with major highways and interstates connecting cities and towns. The Kansas Turnpike, a toll road, is a vital thoroughfare for travelers passing through the state. Public transportation options are available in urban areas, including bus services and some light rail systems. However, due to the state’s rural nature, many residents rely on private vehicles for commuting and traveling between cities.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re captivated by the state’s renowned barbecue, intrigued by its rich cultural heritage, or charmed by its warm hospitality, Kansas has something to offer everyone. From the bustling streets of downtown Kansas City to the serene prairies of the Flint Hills, each city and region in Kansas holds its own charm and character.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a new journey, consider making Kansas your home. Whether you’re starting a family, pursuing career opportunities, or simply seeking a change of pace, the Sunflower State has a place for you. Embrace the friendly smiles and warm welcomes, and be prepared to call nearly 3 million new friends your neighbors. In Kansas, you’ll discover a unique blend of tradition and progress, creating a place that feels like home from the moment you arrive.
Methodology
- 1-bedroom median rent price – Zumper.com
- Population change – American Community Survey 2021 and 2019
- Stores, schools, entertainment, restaurant, transportation – OpenStreetMap
To determine the best places to live in Kansas we analyzed data on seven key metrics, including median 1-bedroom rent prices, population change, and the quantity of stores, schools, healthcare, entertainment, and restaurants. 1-bedroom rent prices accounted for 30 percent of the weighted grade. Population change accounted for 20 percent. Stores, schools, healthcare, entertainment, and restaurants accounted for ten percent each.
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