Median Household Income
$75,477
National average: $83,894
10% below national average
Moving From Kansas
Whether you're leaving the Kansas City metro for new opportunities, relocating from Wichita for a career change, or heading out of state for a different lifestyle — planning a long-distance move from Kansas starts with understanding costs, timing, and which movers serve your route. Below you'll find real data on what Kansas residents pay, where they're moving, and how to compare screened movers for free.
2,637,192
Population
$75,477
Median Income
$227,349
Median Home
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2,637,192
Population
$75,477
Median Income
$227,349
Median Home Value
19.1 minutes
Commute Time
35.8%
College Educated
12.4%
Poverty Rate
Overview
Why People Are Moving Out of Kansas
Kansas has experienced slow but steady population loss in much of the state, with growth concentrated in the Kansas City suburbs (Johnson and Wyandotte counties) and the college towns of Lawrence and Manhattan. The rest of the state — particularly western Kansas — has been losing residents for decades as agriculture becomes more mechanized and fewer jobs are available in small towns. For many Kansans, leaving isn't about dissatisfaction with the state but about following opportunity that doesn't exist locally.
The economy is built on aviation manufacturing (Wichita is the Air Capital of the World), agriculture, energy, and healthcare. The Kansas City metro straddles the Missouri border and functions as a single economic unit — many Kansas residents already work in Missouri. Wichita's economy has been challenged by consolidation in the aviation industry, with Cessna, Beechcraft, and Spirit AeroSystems all going through restructuring. Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth provide military employment in the northeast part of the state.
Kansas offers genuine affordability. Housing costs are among the lowest in the nation, and the overall cost of living is well below the national average. But the state income tax, while recently reduced, is still moderate at 3.1%–5.7%, and property taxes are higher than many residents expect — Kansas ranks in the middle of states for effective property tax rates. The combination of modest wages and moderate taxes means the financial advantage of living in Kansas is less dramatic than it first appears.
The most common outmigration involves young adults and college graduates from the University of Kansas and Kansas State leaving for bigger-city careers; professionals in the Kansas City metro who decide to base on the Missouri side; military families transferring from Fort Riley or Leavenworth; and workers following industry shifts in aviation and energy.
Cost of Living
How Kansas Compares
Key financial metrics for Kansas residents versus the national average.
Median Home Value
$227,349
National average: $447,430
49% below national average
Rent Burden
27.6%
National average: 33%
16% below national average
Median Age
36.5
National average: 37.6
3% below national average
Commute Time
19.1 minutes
National average: 26.4 minutes
28% below national average
College Educated
35.8%
National average: 38.3%
7% below national average
Kansas's cost of living is below the national average, with housing as the biggest advantage. Median home values in Wichita, Topeka, and smaller cities are significantly below the national figure. The Kansas City suburbs (Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa) are more expensive but still affordable compared to most major metros. Outside the metros, Kansas is exceptionally cheap — but the lower costs come with fewer amenities and limited job options. When comparing Kansas to a destination state, consider that most moves will increase your housing costs. The question is whether the salary increase, career opportunity, or lifestyle change at your destination justifies the higher spending.
Largest Cities
Top Cities in Kansas
Key stats for the largest metro areas in Kansas. These are the cities most movers service on routes out of the state.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita | 519,036 | $64,620 | $190,164 |
| Overland Park | 200,306 | $104,834 | $414,497 |
| Kansas City | 155,135 | $62,401 | $161,976 |
| Topeka | 147,144 | $56,956 | $141,075 |
| Olathe | 145,057 | $114,009 | $364,500 |
| Lawrence | 97,387 | $65,009 | $293,234 |
| Shawnee | 68,542 | $109,940 | $360,192 |
| Lenexa | 58,384 | $103,239 | $394,957 |
| Manhattan | 54,239 | $60,172 | $245,389 |
| Salina | 46,307 | $61,783 | $173,188 |
| Hutchinson | 39,709 | $58,687 | $129,577 |
| Leavenworth | 37,195 | $72,987 | $192,831 |
| Leawood | 33,809 | $185,625 | $659,012 |
| Garden City | 27,819 | $72,865 | $191,045 |
| Dodge City | 27,613 | $68,721 | $150,560 |
City Profiles
Moving From Key Kansas Cities
What movers and residents should know about the largest metro areas in Kansas.
Overland Park
Pop. 200,306 Income $104,834 Home $414,497
Overland Park is the largest city in Johnson County and one of the most affluent communities in Kansas. It's part of the Kansas City metro, with a suburban economy built on corporate offices, healthcare, and technology. Sprint's former headquarters (now T-Mobile) and numerous Fortune 500 regional offices are located here. Moves from Overland Park are often across state lines to the Missouri side of Kansas City, or to other major metros like Dallas, Denver, or Nashville. The I-35 and I-435 corridors provide direct interstate access.
Wichita
Pop. 519,036 Income $64,620 Home $190,164
Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and the historic center of American aviation manufacturing. Cessna, Beechcraft (Textron Aviation), Learjet, and Spirit AeroSystems all have operations here. The city's economy has diversified into healthcare and technology but remains heavily tied to aviation. Moves from Wichita commonly head to Dallas–Fort Worth, Denver, Kansas City, or other aviation and manufacturing centers. The I-35 corridor provides direct routing south to Oklahoma City and Dallas.
Read full Wichita guide →Kansas City
Pop. 155,135 Income $62,401 Home $161,976
Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) sits on the western side of the greater Kansas City metro, sharing a metro with Kansas City, Missouri. The city's economy includes manufacturing, logistics, and the Kansas Speedway entertainment district. Many KCK residents work across the state line in Missouri. Moves from KCK often stay within the metro (crossing to the Missouri side) or head to other Midwest and Southern cities. The convergence of I-70, I-35, and I-635 provides extensive routing options.
Topeka
Pop. 147,144 Income $56,956 Home $141,075
Topeka is the state capital, with an economy centered on state government, healthcare, and education. The city has offered financial incentives to attract remote workers, including its Choose Topeka program. Moving from Topeka typically goes to Kansas City (60 miles east on I-70), or to other state capitals and mid-sized cities. The city's location on I-70 provides direct east-west access, and the smaller population means straightforward moving logistics.
Read full Topeka guide →Lawrence
Pop. 97,387 Income $65,009 Home $293,234
Lawrence is a vibrant college town, home to the University of Kansas, with a strong arts and music scene and progressive community character that's distinct from the rest of the state. Moving patterns are heavily tied to the university — students graduate and leave, faculty move for academic positions, and the constant turnover creates a high volume of moves relative to the city's size. Kansas City is just 40 minutes east on I-70, and many Lawrence residents eventually gravitate there.
Planning Your Move
What to Know Before Leaving Kansas
What Your Move Will Likely Cost
Moving out of Kansas typically costs $1,500–$5,500 for a 2-bedroom household, depending on distance. Moves to neighboring states like Missouri, Nebraska, or Oklahoma run $1,000–$2,500, while cross-country moves to the coasts range from $3,500–$7,500. Kansas's central location keeps distances moderate. Getting 3–5 quotes is the best way to find your actual number.
Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Kansas is in Tornado Alley, and severe weather is a real factor from March through June. Schedule around storm season if possible, and have a contingency plan if your move falls in spring. Summers are hot and humid. Fall (September–October) offers the best moving conditions. Winter moves are feasible but ice storms can shut down I-70 and I-35.
Taxes and Financial Factors
Kansas has a progressive income tax (3.1%–5.7%) and property taxes that are higher than many residents expect. If moving to Missouri, the tax picture is similar. Texas, Wyoming, and South Dakota have no income tax. Colorado has a lower flat rate. Compare the full tax picture including property and sales taxes — Kansas's sales tax is among the highest in the country.
What Movers Need to Know About Your Route
Kansas's major interstates (I-70 east-west, I-35 north-south) provide straightforward routing. Western Kansas moves may involve significant distances from the nearest major highway. Rural properties with long gravel driveways should confirm truck access with their mover. Be specific about access details when requesting quotes.
Downsizing Before Your Move
Long-distance movers charge by weight and volume. Kansas homes with basements and garages accumulate items over time. Start decluttering six weeks before your move. Sell through local Facebook groups or donate. Reducing your shipment by 1,000 pounds saves $300–$500.
Utilities and Address Changes
Before leaving Kansas, schedule disconnects with Evergy, Kansas Gas Service, or your local provider. File a change of address with USPS. Update your address with the Kansas Division of Vehicles, your bank, insurance providers, and subscription services.
Timeline
Your Kansas Moving Timeline
1
8 Weeks Before
Research and compare movers
Start collecting quotes from licensed interstate movers. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA complaint history.
2
6 Weeks Before
Declutter and create an inventory
Go room by room including basement and garage. Create a detailed inventory for your mover and insurance purposes.
3
4 Weeks Before
Book your mover and confirm dates
Lock in your moving company and sign the contract. If moving during tornado season, discuss weather contingency plans.
4
3 Weeks Before
Start packing non-essentials
Begin with seasonal items, books, decor, and anything you won't need before moving day. Label every box clearly.
5
2 Weeks Before
Transfer utilities and update your address
Schedule utility disconnects. File a USPS change of address. Notify the Kansas Division of Vehicles, your bank, and insurance providers.
6
1 Week Before
Confirm everything with your mover
Reconfirm the pickup window and review your inventory. Pack an essentials box with documents, medications, and a change of clothes.
7
Moving Day
Supervise loading and document condition
Be present for loading. Note conditions on the inventory sheet. Take photos of valuable items. Confirm delivery details.
8
First Week After
Settle in and handle paperwork
Register your vehicle and update your driver's license in your new state. Transfer car insurance. Begin unpacking with essentials.
Demographics
Kansas at a Glance
Household Income
Under $25K 14.7%
$25K–50K 19.7%
$50K–75K 17.8%
$75K–100K 13.3%
$100K–150K 17%
$150K+ 17.5%
Age Distribution
Under 20 26.7%
20–29 14.8%
30–39 13.6%
40–49 11.8%
50–59 11.1%
60+ 22.1%
Education Level
Less than High School 8.7%
High School 25%
Some College 30.5%
Bachelor's Degree 22.1%
Graduate Degree 13.7%
Kansas's demographic profile reflects a state divided between its metropolitan and rural identities. The Kansas City suburbs of Johnson County have household incomes well above the national median, excellent schools, and a college-educated population that rivals any suburb in the country. By contrast, western and southern Kansas have lower incomes, older populations, and declining communities. Statewide averages mask this divide: the median household income is near but below the national figure, and the college-educated share is close to average. The age distribution is balanced but tilting older in rural areas as young people leave. Income distribution shows a solid middle class with less extreme wealth concentration than coastal states. These patterns drive Kansas's brain drain — Johnson County retains talent well, but the rest of the state struggles.
State Comparisons
How Kansas Compares to Popular Moving Destinations
Side-by-side data for the states most Kansas residents move to.
Kansas vs. Missouri
| Metric | Kansas | Missouri |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $75,477 | $68,213 |
| Median Home Value | $227,349 | $225,612 |
| Median Age | 36.5 | 37.1 |
| Commute Time | 19.1 minutes | 22 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.8% | 36.7% |
| Poverty Rate | 12.4% | 15.7% |
Missouri is the most common destination for Kansas residents, and for many, the move is just crossing the state line within the Kansas City metro. Missouri's lower income tax and Missouri-side amenities (downtown Kansas City, the Crossroads, Westport) draw Kansas suburbanites who want to be closer to the urban core. Beyond the metro, St. Louis and Springfield offer additional options. The cost of living is comparable between the two states. This is often less of a relocation and more of a neighborhood change.
Kansas vs. Texas
| Metric | Kansas | Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $75,477 | $76,235 |
| Median Home Value | $227,349 | $304,205 |
| Median Age | 36.5 | 34.7 |
| Commute Time | 19.1 minutes | 25.4 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.8% | 35.6% |
| Poverty Rate | 12.4% | 15.8% |
Texas attracts Kansas residents with no state income tax, a large economy, and warmer weather. Dallas–Fort Worth is the primary destination — it's about 8 hours south on I-35 and offers job opportunities in tech, healthcare, and corporate sectors that dwarf what's available in Kansas. Austin, Houston, and San Antonio also draw movers. Housing in most Texas metros is comparable to Kansas City's suburbs. The cultural and climate change is meaningful but manageable for Midwesterners.
Kansas vs. Colorado
| Metric | Kansas | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $75,477 | $96,496 |
| Median Home Value | $227,349 | $571,322 |
| Median Age | 36.5 | 36.5 |
| Commute Time | 19.1 minutes | 24.5 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.8% | 49% |
| Poverty Rate | 12.4% | 10.3% |
Colorado draws Kansas residents seeking mountain recreation and a more dynamic economy. Denver is about 600 miles west on I-70, making it one of the closer big-city destinations. The Front Range tech, aerospace, and outdoor industry economy offers career options that don't exist in Kansas. Housing is significantly more expensive than Kansas — this is not a cost-saving move. Colorado's flat income tax is comparable to Kansas's middle bracket. The lifestyle change — from plains to mountains — is the primary draw.
Kansas vs. Oklahoma
| Metric | Kansas | Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $75,477 | $64,956 |
| Median Home Value | $227,349 | $201,170 |
| Median Age | 36.5 | 35.7 |
| Commute Time | 19.1 minutes | 21.1 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.8% | 30.5% |
| Poverty Rate | 12.4% | 16.6% |
Oklahoma draws Kansas residents — particularly from the Wichita area and southern Kansas — with its energy industry jobs and similar culture. Oklahoma City and Tulsa are the primary destinations. The cost of living in Oklahoma is comparable to Kansas, and the cultural transition is minimal. Oklahoma has a moderate income tax and lower property taxes than Kansas. For Wichita residents, Oklahoma City is only about 3 hours south on I-35, making it a manageable move.
Kansas vs. Nebraska
| Metric | Kansas | Nebraska |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $75,477 | $72,359 |
| Median Home Value | $227,349 | $227,508 |
| Median Age | 36.5 | 36.1 |
| Commute Time | 19.1 minutes | 18.8 minutes |
| College Educated | 35.8% | 34.7% |
| Poverty Rate | 12.4% | 12.3% |
Nebraska draws Kansas residents — especially from the Kansas City area — with Omaha's growing economy. Omaha has a surprisingly vibrant culture, several Fortune 500 headquarters (Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha), and a cost of living similar to Kansas. Lincoln offers a college-town alternative. The move is typically career-driven, and the short distance keeps costs low. Nebraska's tax structure is similar to Kansas's, so there's no significant financial advantage in either direction.
Common Routes
Where People From Kansas Move
The most popular destinations for residents leaving Kansas, based on migration patterns.
MO
Missouri
Popular cities: St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Columbia
TX
Texas
Popular cities: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin
CO
Colorado
Popular cities: Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins
OK
Oklahoma
Popular cities: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow
NE
Nebraska
Popular cities: Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island
FAQ
Common Questions About Moving From Kansas
How much does it cost to move out of Kansas?
Moves to neighboring states run $1,000–$2,500 for a 2-bedroom. Moves to Texas or Colorado run $2,000–$4,500. Cross-country runs $3,500–$7,500. Get 3–5 quotes.
Where do most people from Kansas move to?
Missouri is the top destination (often within the KC metro). Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Nebraska also draw significant numbers. Dallas and Denver are the top non-neighboring metro destinations.
When is the cheapest time to move from Kansas?
Late fall and winter (November through February) offer the lowest rates. September and October are the sweet spot for weather and pricing. Avoid tornado season (March–June) and summer weekends.
Is severe weather a concern when planning a move from Kansas?
Yes. Kansas is in Tornado Alley with peak severe weather from March through June. Ice storms disrupt winter travel. Check forecasts when scheduling and have a contingency plan. Most movers reschedule for severe weather at no charge.
How do I choose a mover for a long-distance move from Kansas?
Compare at least 3 quotes from licensed interstate movers. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA records. MoveFinch screens movers for Kansas routes.
What are the tax differences between Kansas and popular destination states?
Kansas income tax runs 3.1%–5.7%. Missouri is similar. Texas has no income tax. Colorado has a flat 4.4%. Kansas has high sales taxes (combined state and local rates exceeding 9% in some areas). Compare all tax types.
How long does a long-distance move from Kansas take?
Moves to neighboring states take 1–2 days. Texas or Colorado moves take 2–4 days. Cross-country takes 7–14 days. Get delivery windows in writing.
Do I need to update my driver's license after leaving Kansas?
Yes. Most states require a new license within 30 to 90 days. Bring your Kansas license, proof of new address, identity documents, and Social Security card.
Should I move myself or hire movers?
For short moves to Missouri or Nebraska, renting a truck can save money. For moves over 500 miles, professional movers are usually worth the cost. Compare both options.
What should I look for in a moving contract?
Look for a binding estimate, detailed inventory, pickup and delivery windows, total price, and liability coverage. Confirm weight or volume basis and delivery timeline.
Making the Decision to Leave Kansas
Kansas is a state that works well for the people it works for — affordable, friendly, stable, and genuinely pleasant in its communities and way of life. The Johnson County suburbs rival any in the Midwest for quality of life. Lawrence has a creative energy that surprises visitors. And the wide-open spaces of western Kansas have a beauty that's easy to overlook but hard to forget.
But the state's career limitations are real, and for young professionals, the gravitational pull of larger cities is strong. When Kansas City's best job opportunities are on the Missouri side, when Wichita's aviation industry is consolidating, and when college graduates can earn 20–40% more in Denver or Dallas, the case for staying gets harder to make on purely financial terms.
If you're considering a move, start with accurate cost estimates for your route. Kansas's central location means moderate distances to most destinations, which helps keep moving costs manageable. Comparing quotes from screened movers gives you a real number to work with — and helps you decide whether the opportunity elsewhere justifies leaving one of the most affordable and grounded places in the country.
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