Kansas continues to stand out as one of the most affordable states in the country. With an average annual cost of living of $49,348 per person, the Sunflower State offers residents lower expenses across housing, food, utilities, and everyday essentials compared to much of the United States.
According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Kansas ranked as the seventh-lowest cost-of-living state in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2025. The state’s Cost of Living Index (COLI) score is 89.7, well below the national baseline of 100.
For comparison:
Oklahoma: 85.5
Missouri: 88.0
Nebraska: 92.4
Colorado: 104.0
A COLI below 100 means a state is less expensive than the national average — making Kansas a clear affordability leader, especially compared to higher-cost neighboring Colorado.
On average, residents can expect monthly expenses of approximately $4,112 per person.
Breakdown of Average Annual Expenses in Kansas
Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (2023), here’s what Kansans spend per capita annually:
Housing & Utilities: $7,802
Health Care: $8,523
Food & Beverages: $4,526
Gas & Energy Goods: $1,365
Other Personal Expenditures: $27,132
These figures highlight Kansas’ balanced affordability across essential spending categories.
Housing Costs in Kansas
One of the biggest drivers of Kansas’ affordability is housing.
There are over 1.3 million housing units statewide, and the average home value as of August 2025 is $242,980, significantly lower than the national average of $368,581.
Median Monthly Housing Costs:
Median mortgage payment: $1,638
Median gross rent: $1,036
Average Rent by Unit Size:
Studio: $809
1 bedroom: $855
2 bedroom: $1,030
3 bedroom: $1,206
4 bedroom: $1,343
5+ bedrooms: $1,385
Housing prices vary by city:
City Average Home Value Kansas City$201,570Wichita$201,526Topeka$200,369Lawrence$330,548Olathe$419,795Overland Park$469,289
Major metro suburbs like Overland Park and Olathe command higher prices, while cities such as Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City offer particularly affordable entry points for homeowners.
Utility Costs
Utilities in Kansas average $365 per month, broken down as follows:
Electricity: $117.91
Natural Gas: $106
Cable & Internet: $103
Water: $38
Energy costs remain moderate compared to many states, contributing to manageable monthly housing expenses.
Grocery & Food Costs
Kansas residents spend about $377 per month per person on food and beverages — or roughly $1,508 per month for a family of four.
Grocery prices across Kansas remain below the national average. Grocery index scores (with 100 being the national baseline) include:
Hutchinson: 96.3
Manhattan: 95.3
Pittsburg: 93.2
Salina: 94.8
Topeka: 95.9
Wichita: 94.9
Transportation Costs
Transportation expenses vary by household size. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator (February 2025):
One adult, no children: $10,464 annually
Two working adults, no children: $12,110 annually
Two working adults, three children: $19,472 annually
Kansas offers public transportation options in metro areas like Kansas City, but many residents rely on personal vehicles, particularly in rural areas.
Health Care Costs
Health care costs average $8,523 per person annually, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Actual costs depend on age, insurance coverage, and personal medical needs.
Child Care Costs
For families, child care can significantly impact monthly budgets.
Average monthly child care costs per child:
Infant (center-based): $1,295
Toddler (center-based): $995
Preschooler (center-based): $771
Home-based family care: $1,163
As in most states, infant care is the most expensive category.
Taxes in Kansas
Kansas has a graduated income tax structure with a maximum rate of 5.58%, higher than neighboring states.
Tax Type Kansas Nebraska Colorado Income Tax5.58%5.2%4.4% (flat)Property Tax1.19%1.43%0.5%Sales Tax6.0%5.5%2.9%Corporate Tax6.5%5.2%4.4%
While income taxes are slightly higher than nearby states, Kansas benefits from moderate property taxes and manageable housing costs.
Entertainment & Lifestyle
Kansas offers affordable recreation and family-friendly attractions, including:
Botanica, Wichita Gardens: $12 adult admission
Sedgwick County Zoo: Up to $23.99 adult ticket
OZ Museum: $10 adult admission
Residents enjoy a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality-of-life amenities.
How Much Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Kansas?
The answer depends on your family size, location, and lifestyle preferences. However, with its seventh-lowest cost of living in the U.S., Kansas remains one of the most budget-friendly states in America.
U.S. News & World Report ranked Kansas 11th in overall affordability, and notably 10th in housing affordability — making it especially attractive for first-time homebuyers.
For individuals and families looking for financial breathing room, stable housing costs, and below-average living expenses, Kansas offers a compelling and practical place to call home.
