Kansas, located in the mid-western part of the United States, is known for its beautiful plains, wheat fields, and hospitable people. It is the perfect state for those who are looking for affordable living, quiet neighborhoods, and a friendly atmosphere. If you’re planning to move to Kansas and are searching for the best places to live, take into consideration factors such as affordability, quality of life, and job opportunities. So, if you’re considering living in Kansas, read on to find out which places might be the perfect fit for you.
Best Cities In Kansas
- Overland Park
- Lawrence
- Manhattan
- Lenexa
- Leawood
- Shawnee
- Olathe
- Wichita
- Derby
- Hays
- Kansas City
- Prairie Village
- Roeland Park
- Mission
- Westwood
- Fairway
- Topeka
- Mission Hills
1. Overland Park
Overland Park is one of the best places to live in Kansas with a population of around 195,494 people. It is a safe and family-friendly community that has plenty of amenities, including excellent schools, parks, and shopping centers. The average rental cost in Overland Park is around $1,175 per month, while the median home cost is around $288,900. If you love outdoor activities, then you will enjoy the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the Indian Creek Trail, and the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.
2. Lawrence
Lawrence is a city located in northeastern Kansas and is home to approximately 97,296 people. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, and thriving economy. The average rental cost in Lawrence is around $860 per month, while the median home cost is around $201,300. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Lawrence, including hiking and biking trails, nature preserves, and parks. You can also visit the Spencer Museum of Art, the Lawrence Arts Center, and the KU Natural History Museum.
3. Manhattan
Manhattan is a vibrant college town located in the Flint Hills of Kansas. It is home to around 56,482 people and is known for its excellent schools, friendly people, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Manhattan is around $814 per month, while the median home cost is around $214,800. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Manhattan, including hiking and biking trails, nature preserves, and parks. You can also visit the Flint Hills Discovery Center, the Sunset Zoo, and the Manhattan Arts Center.
4. Lenexa
Lenexa is a suburban city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to just over 55,528 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and ample job opportunities. The average rental cost in Lenexa is around $1,130 per month, while the median home cost is around $284,200. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Lenexa, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Legler Barn Museum, the Lenexa Spinach Festival, and the Lenexa Community Center.
5. Leawood
Leawood is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to around 35,959 people. It is known for its upscale neighborhoods, excellent schools, and high-end shopping centers. The average rental cost in Leawood is around $1,426 per month, while the median home cost is around $519,400. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Leawood, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Museum at Prairiefire, Ironwoods Park, and the
6. Shawnee
Shawnee is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to approximately 65,802 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and ample job opportunities. The average rental cost in Shawnee is around $1,060 per month, while the median home cost is around $272,300. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Shawnee, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Wonderscope Children’s Museum, the Shawnee Town Museum, and the Shawnee Mission Park.
7. Olathe
Olathe is a suburban city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to just over 141,309 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and diverse population. The average rental cost in Olathe is around $1,060 per month, while the median home cost is around $270,000. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Olathe, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site, the Ernie Miller Nature Center, and the Olathe Community Center.
8. Wichita
Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and is home to just over 389,255 people. It is known for its diverse population, excellent schools, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Wichita is around $714 per month, while the median home cost is around $139,100. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Wichita, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Sedgwick County Zoo, the Botanica Wichita Gardens, and the Wichita Art Museum.
9. Derby
Derby is a suburb of Wichita and is home to approximately 24,339 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Derby is around $924 per month, while the median home cost is around $189,900. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Derby, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Derby Historical Museum, the Rock River Rapids, and the High Park Arboretum.
10. Hays
Hays is a bustling city located in Ellis County, Kansas. With a population of around 20,000 people, it’s one of the smaller cities on our list. However, Hays offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it a great place to live.
Rental costs in Hays are relatively affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $600 and a two-bedroom apartment around $800 per month. The median home price in Hays is around $150,000, making it one of the more affordable options on our list.
11. Kansas City
Kansas City is the third-largest city in Kansas and is home to around 153,501 people. It is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Kansas City is around $869 per month, while the median home cost is around $149,700. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Kansas City, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the National World War I Museum, the Kauffman Stadium, and the Kansas City Zoo.
12. Prairie Village
Prairie Village is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to approximately 22,881 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and unique shops and restaurants. The average rental cost in Prairie Village is around $1,164 per month, while the median home cost is around $326,400. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Prairie Village, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Prairie Village Shopping Center, the VillageFest, and the Corinth Square Shopping Center.
13. Roeland Park
Roeland Park is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to around 6,731 people. It is known for its excellent schools, small-town feel, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Roeland Park is around $1,012 per month, while the median home cost is around $216,500. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Roeland Park, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Roeland Park Community Center, the Roe Park Playground, and Joe Dennis Park.
14. Mission
Mission is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to just over 9,441 people. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and affordable living. The average rental cost in Mission is around $1,045 per month, while the median home cost is around $214,800. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Mission, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Mission Family Aquatic Center, the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center, and the Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center.
15. Westwood
Westwood is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas, and is home to approximately 1,658 people. It is known for its excellent schools, small-town feel, and unique shops and restaurants. The average rental cost in Westwood is around $1,116 per month, while the median home cost is around $320,000. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Westwood, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. You can also visit the Woodside Health and Tennis Club, the Westwood City Pool, and the Westwood Community Center.
16. Fairway
Fairway is a small city located in Johnson County, Kansas. With a population of around 4,000, Fairway is a tight-knit community that offers a high quality of life. The average rent in Fairway is around $1,100 per month. This is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s still affordable for many people.
The median home value in Fairway is around $375,000. This is higher than many other cities in Kansas, but it’s reflective of the city’s desirable location and quality of life. Fairway is located close to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including Westwood Park and Sante Fe Commons Park. The city is also home to several restaurants and shops, making it a great place to live for those who value convenience and a small-town atmosphere.
17. Topeka
Topeka is the capital city of Kansas and is located in Shawnee County, Topeka is a diverse and growing city. With a population of around 126,000, Topeka is the fourth-largest city in the state.
The average rent in Topeka is around $800 per month, which is significantly lower than the national average. This makes Topeka an affordable option for many people. The median home value in Topeka is around $120,000, which is much lower than many other cities in Kansas. However, this is reflective of the city’s lower cost of living.
Topeka offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking trails, parks, and golf courses. The city is also home to several museums, including the Kansas Museum of History and the Combat Air Museum.
18. Mission Hills
Mission Hills is a small city located in Johnson County, Kansas. With a population of just over 3,500, Mission Hills is a quiet and affluent community. The average rent in Mission Hills is higher than in many other cities in Kansas, at around $1,400 per month. However, this is reflective of the upscale homes and desirable location.
The median home value in Mission Hills is around $1.5 million, making it one of the most expensive places to live in Kansas. However, the homes in Mission Hills are well-maintained and often have large yards, making it an attractive option for those who can afford it.
Mission Hills offers several opportunities for outdoor activities, including playing golf at the Mission Hills Country Club or hiking in the nearby Turkey Creek Streamway Trail. The city is also located close to several shopping centers and restaurants, making it a convenient place for those who enjoy urban amenities.
Is Kansas City a Good Place to Live?
Kansas City can be a good place to live depending on individual preferences. It has a diverse economy, a thriving arts and culture scene, and numerous recreational opportunities. However, like any city, it also has its downsides such as crime rates and traffic congestion.
Where is the Best Place to Live in Kansas?
The best place to live in Kansas can vary depending on individual preferences. Some of the popular places to live in Kansas include Overland Park, Olathe, Lawrence, Wichita, and Topeka. Each of these places has its unique features such as good schools, low crime rates, affordable housing, and plenty of job opportunities.
Is Kansas City a Safe Place to Live?
Kansas City, like any large city, has its share of crime. However, the overall crime rate has been decreasing over the years. There are safe neighborhoods in Kansas City, such as Brookside, Waldo, and Lee’s Summit. It is essential to research the neighborhood and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Is it Expensive to Live in Kansas City?
The cost of living in Kansas City is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Housing costs, including rent and home prices, are affordable, and the overall cost of living is 5% lower than the national average. However, it can vary depending on the neighborhood and individual lifestyle choices.
Why is Kansas City So Cheap?
Kansas City is relatively cheap due to its low cost of living compared to other major cities. The cost of doing business in Kansas City is also low, which attracts businesses, and ultimately, helps keep prices low. Additionally, there is plenty of lands available, which keeps the cost of building homes and businesses affordable.
Is it Good to Move to Kansas City?
Moving to Kansas City can be a good decision depending on individual preferences. It has a thriving economy, diverse culture, and plenty of recreational opportunities. The cost of living is affordable, and the city has a growing job market. However, like any city, it also has its downsides, such as traffic congestion and crime rates, which should be taken into account before making a move.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, living in Kansas can be a great experience, and the state offers a variety of cities and towns that cater to different lifestyles. From the vibrant culture and growing job market of Wichita to the charming small-town feel of Manhattan, there is something for everyone. Other notable places to consider include Overland Park, Lawrence, and Topeka, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. So, if you’re looking for a new place to call home in the Midwest, don’t overlook the many excellent options available in Kansas.