There's a lot to like about living in Kansas. Homes generally cost less than in many other states, traffic is lighter outside the bigger cities, and there are jobs in aviation, healthcare, and manufacturing.
But you'll also have to deal with hot summers, tornadoes, strong storms, and limited public transportation in smaller towns.
The hardest part of moving to another state isn't always packing or finding a new home. It's knowing whether you'll be comfortable once you get there.
If you are still deciding where to move in the USA, let’s take a closer look at Kansas home prices, living costs, jobs, weather, and local communities to see if it's a place you'd enjoy calling home.
- Moving to Kansas at a Glance
- Kansas Relocation Quick Facts
- Pros and Cons of Living in Kansas
- Kansas Population and Migration Trends
- Best Places to Live in Kansas
- Compare Kansas' Major Cities
- Cost of Living in Kansas
- Taxes and Insurance in Kansas
- Where Are the Best Job Opportunities in Kansas?
- Crime and Safety in Kansas
- Kansas Weather and Climate
- Healthcare in Kansas
- Schools and Colleges in Kansas
- Transportation and Commuting in Kansas
- Is Kansas Right for Your Situation?
- How Much Does It Cost to Move to Kansas?
- Best Moving Companies for Your Move to Kansas
- FAQs
- Our Research and Data Process
Moving to Kansas at a Glance
Is Kansas a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Kansas is a good place to live if you want affordable housing, shorter commutes, and steady jobs.
Is Moving to Kansas Worth It?
Yes, moving to Kansas is worth it if you want to buy a home for less than in many other states.
Who Is Kansas Best Suited For?
First-time homebuyers, families looking for more space, and people working in aviation, healthcare, agriculture, or Kansas City's business sector.
Who May Not Enjoy Living in Kansas?
People who dislike tornadoes, strong winds, and hot summers, or prefer reliable public transportation, big-city nightlife, and more entertainment options.
Kansas Relocation Quick Facts
| Category | Kansas Quick Facts |
|---|---|
| Capital | Topeka |
| Largest Cities | Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, Topeka, Lawrence |
| Population | 2.98 million |
| Population Growth | +1.3% since 2020 |
| Time Zone | Central Time (CT); Mountain Time (MT) in four western counties |
| Climate Type | Humid continental in the east; semiarid in the west |
| Average Living Costs | $37,005/year (single adult, after taxes) |
| Home Prices | $246,055 (typical home value) |
| Average Rent | $1,382/month |
| Median Household Income | $74,275/year |
| State Income Tax | 5.2%–5.58% |
| State Sales Tax | 6.5% statewide |
| Property Tax | 1.21% average |
Pros and Cons of Living in Kansas
Pros
- More affordable homes, with a median home value of $217,200.
- Aviation jobs in Wichita and business careers around Kansas City.
- Short commutes, averaging 19.7 minutes statewide.
- More space and quieter neighborhoods outside busy cities.
- State parks, lakes, and open spaces for outdoor activities.
- Universities like KU and K-State offer education and career opportunities.
- Lower housing costs help first-time buyers get started.
Cons
- Property taxes add to the cost of owning a home.
- Fewer career choices in small farming towns.
- Most daily errands require a car.
- Fewer shops, restaurants, and activities in rural areas.
- Hot summers and strong winds make outdoor plans harder.
- Specialist doctors and major hospitals are farther away in rural areas.
- Tornadoes, hailstorms, and droughts bring weather risks.
Kansas Population and Migration Trends
Kansas is growing, but not every part of the state is attracting new residents at the same pace. Population trends show where more people are settling and which areas are worth a closer look before moving to Kansas.
How Many People Live in Kansas?
Best Places to Live in Kansas
The right place to live depends on your lifestyle, career, and future plans.
Wichita
If you want a good job without spending too much on a home, Wichita is worth considering for its aviation and healthcare careers.
Overland Park
Overland Park is a good place to settle if you want well-kept neighborhoods and access to Kansas City jobs, with a median household income of $104,834.
Olathe
More people are settling in Olathe, where growing neighborhoods, schools, and parks make everyday family life convenient.
Shawnee
You’ll enjoy Shawnee if you prefer quieter neighborhoods but still want nearby Kansas City jobs, hospitals, and shopping.
Lawrence
Lawrence is worth considering if you enjoy a lively community, with the University of Kansas bringing jobs, restaurants, and events downtown.
Lenexa
For people who want everyday services close by, Lenexa offers growing neighborhoods, shopping, and access to major employers.
Compare Kansas' Major Cities
| City | Population | Growth | Monthly Living Cost | Median Home Price | Average Rent | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita | 401K | +0.9% | $3.0K | $263K | $1.3K | $58.8K |
| Overland Park | 203.7K | +3.3% | $3.4K | $720K | $2.2K | $66.5K |
| Kansas City, KS | 157.8K | +0.8% | $3.4K | $255K | $1.3K | $66.5K |
| Olathe | 150K | +6.2% | $3.4K | $625K | $2.3K | $66.5K |
| Topeka | 125.8K | -0.6% | $3.0K | $219.9K | $1.2K | $61.6K |
| Lawrence | 96.4K | +1.5% | $3.0K | $429.9K | $1.5K | $60.9K |
| Shawnee | 69.8K | +3.7% | $3.4K | $525K | $1.8K | $66.5K |
| Lenexa | 60.5K | +5.4% | $3.4K | $675K | $2.2K | $66.5K |
Cost of Living in Kansas
Kansas is cheaper than the national average, especially for housing. The state’s 2024 price index was 90.1, meaning everyday prices were 9.9% below the U.S. average.
Housing Costs
The Kansas housing market offers lower home prices than many other states, but costs vary by location.
Housing is one of Kansas’s biggest advantages.
Kansas home values are 32.8% lower than the U.S. average, while statewide asking rents are 30.9% lower. However, homeowners should also budget for property taxes and storm-related insurance costs.
| Housing Expense | Latest Cost |
|---|---|
| Typical home value | $246,055 |
| Median sale price | $295,333 |
Everyday Monthly Costs
Kansas vs. the U.S. Average
Taxes and Insurance in Kansas
Kansas has a 6.5% state sales tax, with extra local taxes depending on where you live.
| Expense | Current Rate or Cost |
|---|---|
| State income tax | 5.2%–5.58% |
| State sales tax | 6.5% |
| State grocery tax | 0% (local taxes still apply) |
| Effective property tax rate | 1.21% |
| Homeowners insurance | About $367/month |
| Flood insurance | About $88/month |
Kansas’s Overall Tax Burden Compared With Nearby States
Tax burden shows how much of residents’ income goes toward state and local property, income, sales, and excise taxes.
| State | Overall Tax Burden | Property Tax Burden | Income Tax Burden | Sales & Excise Burden | Difference vs. Kansas | Difference per $100K Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 9.20% | 2.92% | 2.40% | 3.87% | Baseline | Baseline |
| Missouri | 7.84% | 2.35% | 2.38% | 3.11% | -1.36 pts | -$1,360 |
| Nebraska | 8.16% | 3.22% | 2.11% | 2.82% | -1.04 pts | -$1,040 |
| Oklahoma | 7.05% | 1.78% | 1.78% | 3.50% | -2.15 pts | -$2,150 |
| Colorado | 7.56% | 2.77% | 1.43% | 3.36% | -1.64 pts | -$1,640 |
How Expensive Is It to Live in Kansas?
Living in Kansas costs less than in many other states, but the income you need depends on your household size, housing, and daily expenses.
| Household | Living Wage | Basic Monthly Budget | Required Annual Income Before Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|
| One adult | $21.63/hour | $3,084 | $44,994 |
| A couple, both working | $14.88/hour each | $4,442 | $61,901 combined |
| A family of four | $24.99/hour each | $7,512 | $103,975 combined |
| A retiree | $15.16/hour | $2,628 | $31,536 |
| A student | $8.98/hour | $1,557 | $18,682* |
Where Are the Best Job Opportunities in Kansas?
Job opportunities in Kansas depend on the type of work you’re looking for. Healthcare, aviation, manufacturing, and technology are important industries across the state.
Kansas’s Top Career Fields
| Career Field | Job Opportunities | Annual Median Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Nurses and medical staff | $78,061 |
| Technology | Software developers | $106,665 |
| Business & Management | Operations managers | $85,621 |
| Finance | Accountants and auditors | $76,408 |
| Transportation | Truck drivers | $56,941 |
Which City Fits Your Career?
| City | When You Work In | Common Jobs |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita | Aviation, aircraft manufacturing, engineering | Aircraft mechanic, aerospace engineer, production technician |
| Overland Park | Healthcare, finance, technology, telecommunications | Registered nurse, financial analyst, software developer |
| Kansas City, KS | Healthcare, warehousing, automotive manufacturing | Medical technician, warehouse supervisor, assembly worker |
| Topeka | Government, healthcare, food manufacturing | State employee, registered nurse, production operator |
| Manhattan | Education, agriculture, university research | Research assistant, agricultural scientist, university staff |
Crime and Safety in Kansas
Safety in Kansas depends on where you live. Some communities have much lower crime rates than others, so check local crime figures before choosing a neighborhood.
Is Kansas a Safe Place to Live?
Yes, many Kansas communities have low crime rates, but statewide crime remains a concern. In 2025, Kansas recorded 460 violent crimes and 1,790 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Both rates were higher than the national average.
Kansas Violent and Property Crime Trends
Kansas recorded fewer property crimes in 2025 than in 2023, although violent crime increased slightly.
| Crime Measure | 2025 Rate per 100K | Change From 2023 | Compared With U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | 460 | +2.2% | Higher |
| Property crime | 1,790 | -20.4% | Higher |
| Overall crime | 2,250 | -16.7% | Higher |
| Murder | 4.1 | -22.3% | Similar |
| Robbery | 32 | -14.1% | Lower |
| Burglary | 218 | -25.7% | Higher |
Safest Cities and Communities in Kansas
These communities reported some of the lowest violent crime rates in Kansas in 2025.
| Community | Violent Crime per 100K | Property Crime per 100K | Recent Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leawood | 65 | 993 | Property crime down 35% YoY |
| Prairie Village | 92 | 642 | Property crime down 42% YoY |
| Lansing | 97 | 450 | Violent crime down 43% YoY |
| Overland Park | 158 | 1,459 | Violent crime down 16% YoY |
| Lenexa | 180 | 1,045 | Property crime down 23% YoY |
Road Safety and Traffic Fatalities
Road safety is another important factor when moving to Kansas, especially since daily travel often requires a car. Traffic deaths dropped in 2024, but early 2025 estimates show an increase.
Kansas Weather and Climate
Kansas has four distinct seasons, with hot summers, cold winters, and frequent weather changes. Eastern Kansas is wetter and more humid, while western Kansas is drier and windier.
Mild & Stormy
Temperatures rise from March to May, bringing thunderstorms, hail, and tornado risks.
Hot & Sunny
Highs often reach the mid-80s to low 90s°F, with occasional temperatures above 100°F.
Mild to Cool
Cooler days and crisp nights, with occasional severe storms.
Cold & Windy
Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and strong winds, especially in the north and west.
What Else to Expect
| Weather Period | Typical Conditions | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Snow | More common in the northwest | Under 12–42 inches annually |
| Rainfall | Wetter east, drier west | Under 20–45+ inches annually |
| Thunderstorms | Spring and summer | Hail, lightning, strong winds |
| Tornado season | April to June | Peak tornado activity |
| Drought risk | Higher in the west | Wildfires and water shortages |
Which Parts of Kansas Face the Greatest Weather Risks?
- Central and western Kansas face tornadoes, large hail, strong winds, and severe thunderstorms. Western areas also have greater drought and wildfire risks.
- Eastern Kansas receives more rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding near rivers and low-lying areas.
- Northern and western Kansas experience colder winters, with snow, ice, and strong winds.
Healthcare in Kansas
Kansas has major hospitals and specialist care in its larger cities. Rural areas have fewer doctors and maternity services, often requiring residents to travel farther for treatment.
Best Hospitals and Medical Centers
The latest 2026–2027 U.S. News rankings recognize two Kansas hospitals as Best Regional Hospitals.
| Rank | Hospital | City | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University of Kansas Hospital | Kansas City, KS | Cancer, heart, neurological and specialty care |
| #2 | AdventHealth Shawnee Mission | Merriam | Diabetes, cancer surgery and general care |
Rural Healthcare Availability
Healthcare access becomes more difficult in rural Kansas, especially for maternity care and specialist appointments.
| Rural Healthcare Measure | Latest Published Figure |
|---|---|
| Counties served by community hospitals | 96 of 105 statewide |
| Rural counties with labor and delivery services | 34 of 85 |
| Women living 30+ minutes from a birthing hospital | 8.4% statewide |
| Hospital beds per 10,000 residents | 30.3 statewide |
| Dentists per 10,000 residents | Rural: 4.16 / Urban: 6.12 |
Schools and Colleges in Kansas
Kansas has well-rated public school districts and universities, but school quality varies by location.
Here’s how Kansas students are doing in key areas.
Best-Rated School Districts
For families comparing schools, these districts lead Niche’s 2026 Kansas rankings.
| Rank | District | Niche Grade | Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Blue Valley Unified School District | A+ | 22,252 |
| #2 | De Soto Unified School District | A | 7,295 |
| #3 | Andover Public Schools | A | 9,460 |
| #4 | Olathe Public Schools | A | 28,195 |
| #5 | Manhattan-Ogden Unified School District | A | 7,204 |
Kansas Colleges and Universities
Kansas offers public research universities, regional colleges, community colleges, and technical schools, with programs ranging from engineering to healthcare and agriculture.
| University | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| University of Kansas | Lawrence | Medicine, business, engineering, research |
| Kansas State University | Manhattan | Agriculture, veterinary medicine, engineering |
| Wichita State University | Wichita | Aerospace engineering, business, applied research |
| Pittsburg State University | Pittsburg | Technology, education, business |
| Fort Hays State University | Hays | Nursing, education, online programs |
Transportation and Commuting in Kansas
Kansas is largely car-dependent, but daily commutes are relatively short. Public transit serves some communities, while longer trips usually require a car.
| Transportation Area | Kansas Data |
|---|---|
| Main interstates | I-35, I-70, I-135, I-335, I-435, I-635 |
| Public transportation | Available, but limited outside major cities |
| Walking and cycling | Limited statewide; better in some urban areas |
| Busiest airport | Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport |
| Level 2 charging ports | 1,060 |
| DC fast-charging ports | 398 |
Do You Need a Car in Kansas?
Yes. A car is the easiest way to get around Kansas, especially for work, shopping, and trips between towns. Wichita, Topeka, Lawrence, and parts of the Kansas City area have public transit, but service is limited compared with larger U.S. cities.
Is Kansas Right for Your Situation?
Moving to Kansas With a Family
Yes. Kansas offers affordable housing, good public school districts, spacious neighborhoods, parks, and family activities. Lower living costs also help families manage everyday expenses.
Moving to Kansas as a Young Professional
Yes, especially if you work in aviation, engineering, healthcare, finance, or technology. Kansas offers career opportunities, relatively affordable housing, and shorter commutes.
Moving to Kansas for Retirement
Yes. Kansas is a good fit for retirees who prefer quieter communities, affordable homes, and a slower pace of life. Access to healthcare, shopping, and recreational activities varies across the state.
Moving to Kansas for College
Yes. Kansas has public research universities, regional colleges, community colleges, and technical schools that offer programs in engineering, healthcare, business, agriculture, and education.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Kansas?
Moving to Kansas from another state typically costs $2,276–$7,023 for a 2–3-bedroom home with full-service movers, including a small budgeting cushion.
Estimated Moving Costs to Kansas
- Nearby State $2,080–$5,140Missouri to KansasAbout 450 miles
- Mid-Distance Move $2,360–$5,620Texas to KansasAbout 641 miles
- Cross-Country Move $3,100–$6,420California to KansasAbout 1,538 miles
Moving Costs by Service Type
The type of moving service you choose affects how much you pay to move to Kansas. Here's what each option costs and what’s included.
| Moving Service | Estimated Cost | What You're Paying For | Detailed Cost Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Movers | $2,276–$7,023 | Professional loading, transportation, and unloading | Full-Service Moving Costs |
| Moving Containers | $1,302–$4,069 | Container transport; you handle packing and loading | Moving Container Costs |
| Rental Trucks | $481–$2,396 | Truck rental, excluding fuel and driving expenses | Moving Truck Rental Costs |
| Labor-Only Movers | $131–$177/hour | Two movers for loading or unloading; no transportation | Labor-Only Moving Costs |
Moving Cost to Kansas From Your State
Pick the state you're moving from to see what a 2–3-bedroom move to Kansas usually costs.
Note: These costs are estimates for moving a 2–3-bedroom home to Kansas. Actual prices depend on your location, moving date, and services. Full-service, container, and truck rental costs are estimates, not final quotes. Labor-only rates are hourly for two movers and don't include transportation.
See moving costs from all 47 states
| Moving Route | Distance (Miles) | Full-Service Movers | Moving Container | Truck Rental | Labor-Only (2 Movers/Hour) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama to Kansas | ~850 | $4,534 | $2,298 | $1,439 | $128/hr |
| Arizona to Kansas | ~1,180 | $5,308 | $2,651 | $1,638 | $121/hr |
| Arkansas to Kansas | ~420 | $3,458 | $1,647 | $1,017 | $136/hr |
| California to Kansas | ~1,750 | $6,616 | $3,296 | $2,093 | $127/hr |
| Colorado to Kansas | ~560 | $3,857 | $1,849 | $1,168 | $134/hr |
| Connecticut to Kansas | ~1,420 | $5,827 | $2,911 | $1,818 | $128/hr |
| Delaware to Kansas | ~1,250 | $5,438 | $2,719 | $1,688 | $131/hr |
| Florida to Kansas | ~1,360 | $5,626 | $2,821 | $1,763 | $118/hr |
| Georgia to Kansas | ~930 | $4,707 | $2,371 | $1,468 | $119/hr |
| Idaho to Kansas | ~1,330 | $5,876 | $2,901 | $1,786 | $146/hr |
| Illinois to Kansas | ~460 | $3,524 | $1,671 | $1,047 | $134/hr |
| Indiana to Kansas | ~650 | $4,036 | $2,004 | $1,274 | $129/hr |
| Iowa to Kansas | ~260 | $2,901 | $1,451 | $856 | $148/hr |
| Kentucky to Kansas | ~670 | $4,111 | $2,051 | $1,302 | $134/hr |
| Louisiana to Kansas | ~750 | $4,256 | $2,184 | $1,394 | $138/hr |
| Maine to Kansas | ~1,750 | $6,814 | $3,366 | $2,122 | $158/hr |
| Maryland to Kansas | ~1,150 | $5,156 | $2,587 | $1,603 | $129/hr |
| Massachusetts to Kansas | ~1,510 | $6,103 | $3,036 | $1,898 | $141/hr |
| Michigan to Kansas | ~890 | $4,591 | $2,324 | $1,451 | $127/hr |
| Minnesota to Kansas | ~590 | $3,928 | $1,906 | $1,206 | $143/hr |
| Mississippi to Kansas | ~660 | $4,124 | $2,046 | $1,296 | $137/hr |
| Missouri to Kansas | ~200 | $2,624 | $1,361 | $768 | $133/hr |
| Montana to Kansas | ~1,150 | $5,426 | $2,684 | $1,642 | $169/hr |
| Nebraska to Kansas | ~170 | $2,514 | $1,326 | $727 | $147/hr |
| Nevada to Kansas | ~1,510 | $6,096 | $3,034 | $1,897 | $121/hr |
| New Hampshire to Kansas | ~1,600 | $6,453 | $3,191 | $1,994 | $144/hr |
| New Jersey to Kansas | ~1,320 | $5,581 | $2,791 | $1,739 | $131/hr |
| New Mexico to Kansas | ~790 | $4,449 | $2,259 | $1,424 | $139/hr |
| New York to Kansas | ~1,330 | $5,551 | $2,784 | $1,739 | $138/hr |
| North Carolina to Kansas | ~1,110 | $5,066 | $2,543 | $1,572 | $128/hr |
| North Dakota to Kansas | ~790 | $4,571 | $2,302 | $1,441 | $173/hr |
| Ohio to Kansas | ~810 | $4,433 | $2,256 | $1,422 | $127/hr |
| Oklahoma to Kansas | ~310 | $3,082 | $1,514 | $907 | $119/hr |
| Oregon to Kansas | ~1,840 | $6,946 | $3,442 | $2,186 | $127/hr |
| Pennsylvania to Kansas | ~1,170 | $5,238 | $2,623 | $1,624 | $134/hr |
| Rhode Island to Kansas | ~1,550 | $6,132 | $3,061 | $1,923 | $141/hr |
| South Carolina to Kansas | ~1,100 | $5,041 | $2,531 | $1,564 | $123/hr |
| South Dakota to Kansas | ~540 | $3,989 | $1,876 | $1,171 | $156/hr |
| Tennessee to Kansas | ~660 | $4,091 | $2,034 | $1,291 | $126/hr |
| Texas to Kansas | ~700 | $4,146 | $2,094 | $1,334 | $117/hr |
| Utah to Kansas | ~1,060 | $5,016 | $2,511 | $1,543 | $136/hr |
| Vermont to Kansas | ~1,510 | $6,268 | $3,096 | $1,922 | $171/hr |
| Virginia to Kansas | ~1,090 | $5,016 | $2,519 | $1,556 | $131/hr |
| Washington to Kansas | ~1,950 | $7,171 | $3,558 | $2,274 | $137/hr |
| West Virginia to Kansas | ~960 | $4,793 | $2,406 | $1,482 | $151/hr |
| Wisconsin to Kansas | ~660 | $4,081 | $2,031 | $1,289 | $132/hr |
| Wyoming to Kansas | ~690 | $4,319 | $2,146 | $1,351 | $153/hr |
Get a Moving Estimate for Your New Home in Kansas
Use our Moving Cost Calculator to enter your moving details and get a more specific estimate.
Best Moving Companies for Your Move to Kansas
A reliable moving company should take good care of your belongings, charge a fair price, and deliver everything on time.
When hiring movers, keep in mind that some moving companies in Kansas handle only local moves. Others offer interstate services, so check their service areas before booking to avoid last-minute surprises.
Get quotes from a few companies and compare movers by price, services, and customer reviews.
These details matter when you choose the right moving company.
You should also account for packing, paperwork, and pickup dates in your long-distance moving checklist. The companies below are worth considering for your move to Kansas.
Top picks for you
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Find Movers for Your Move to Kansas From Another State
When Is the Best Time to Move to Kansas?
September and October are good months to move to Kansas because the weather is cooler and more comfortable for moving. Once you've chosen your moving date, follow a moving timeline to plan your packing, book movers, and arrange utilities before moving day.
Best Day and Time for Moving
Tuesday through Thursday is usually a good choice because movers tend to be less busy than on weekends. An early morning start is also better during Kansas's hot summer months.
FAQs
Our Research and Data Process
We created this guide to answer the common questions people have before moving to Kansas. Most of the information comes from government agencies, official public records, and other primary sources. For information that changes more frequently, such as rent, home prices, insurance costs, and moving costs, we also use reliable first-party institutions and established market-data sources to provide the latest available information.
Data Sources Used
We prioritize primary and official sources whenever reliable data is available.
| Source Type | Approx. Share Used | Main Data Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Federal government sources | 46% | Population, employment, income, economic conditions, crime, weather, natural hazards, transportation, migration, energy, and road safety |
| State and local government sources | 26% | Taxes, schools, licensing, transportation, healthcare, public safety, and state-specific regulations |
| First-party institutions and market sources | 18% | Housing, rent, insurance, hospitals, universities, utilities, and moving costs |
| Reputable secondary sources | 10% | Rankings, comparisons, and supporting market context |
- Our public data sources commonly include: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, FBI Crime Data Explorer, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
- For state-specific information, we use the Kansas state agencies, county and city governments, public school systems, transportation authorities, public universities, and other official local institutions. Official state and local government websites can also be located through the USA.gov state and local government directory. USAGov
- For local public transportation data, we also use individual transit authorities and the Federal Transit Administration's National Transit Database, which provides profiles for reporting transit agencies across the country.
How Data Was Compared
We make comparisons using the same source, time period, geographic level, and measurement method whenever possible. When a useful figure is not published directly, we calculate it from the underlying data. For example:
- Population growth = percentage change between two comparable population estimates
- Cost difference = state or city value compared with the relevant U.S. benchmark
- Tax difference = percentage-point or percentage difference between locations
- Crime rate = reported offenses adjusted for population
- Employment change = change in employment between comparable reporting periods
- Monthly cost = annual cost divided by 12 when only an annual figure is published
How Cities and Communities Were Evaluated
We do not evaluate cities based on a single statistic. Instead, we consider several factors that matter when choosing where to live:
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Jobs & income | 25% |
| Housing & living costs | 20% |
| Crime & safety | 20% |
| Schools & family needs | 15% |
| Healthcare | 10% |
| Transportation | 5% |
| Lifestyle & recreation | 5% |
How Local Experience Was Collected
We do not present invented firsthand experience as fact. Local context comes from official city and county governments, school districts, transportation agencies, hospitals, universities, economic-development organizations, public services, and resident-facing market data.
How Facts Were Checked
We check the latest available information before adding important statistics to a guide. For major topics such as population, employment, taxes, crime, education, transportation, weather, and public safety, we prioritize government agencies and other primary sources.
We also check repeated statistics throughout the guide so that the same metric uses the same value, year, definition, and source wherever it appears.
If two figures measure different things, such as median home value and typical home value, they are labeled separately rather than treated as the same statistic.
Data Limitations
Not every dataset updates at the same time. A 2026 article may still contain the latest official 2024 or 2025 data when that is the newest release available.
Market figures such as rent, home prices, insurance, and mover costs can also change faster than government statistics. These numbers should be treated as current benchmarks rather than guaranteed prices.
