Retiring in Kansas (2026)

Kansas ranks #42 of 51 nationally for retirement friendliness (60/100 vs national avg 73/100). Housing costs are #7 of 51 cheapest, and cost of living overall is significantly below the US average.

Retirement Score

Median Home

$205k

Nat'l avg $358k

Cost of Living

88(US=100)

Nat'l avg 103

Climate

cold humid

Healthcare

68/100

Reasons to Retire Here

✓Low cost of living
✓Low property tax
✓Good universities

Trade-Offs to Know

•Pensions fully taxed
•SS taxed at higher incomes
•Extreme weather
•Rural healthcare gaps

Climate for Older Adults

Kansas's climate is cold and humid in winter, with hot humid summers. Snow removal and ice are real considerations for older adults.

Total Financial Picture

The key financial factors for a Kansas retirement:

• Housing: Median home value $205,000. That's about $153k cheaper than the national median.
• Cost of living index: 88 vs 100 US baseline — everyday goods like groceries, gas, and services run significantly below the US average.
• Tax friendliness: 65/100 — Social Security is partially or fully taxed; pensions are fully taxed. See the full Kansas tax guide.
• Healthcare access: 68/100 — good in metro areas, thinner in rural regions.
• Safety: 60/100 — average safety statewide with meaningful city-to-city variation.

Kansas scores below average for retirement primarily on cost or tax friendliness. It can still be right if family, cultural amenities, or specific health-care access matter more than the financial factors.

Safety & Crime

60/100

Average safety statewide with significant city-to-city variation. Research specific towns before choosing.

Common Questions — Retiring in Kansas

Is Kansas a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Kansas scores 65/100 on our tax friendliness scale. It taxes at least some Social Security or retirement income — plan for this in your budget. See the full state tax breakdown.

What's the median home price in Kansas?

About $205,000 statewide, though costs vary significantly by city. Popular retirement communities and coastal areas tend to run above the state median; rural areas run below.

Is healthcare access good in Kansas?

Healthcare access scores 68/100. Good in urban and suburban areas; rural regions have fewer specialists. Consider proximity to a major medical center if you have chronic conditions.

Are there active senior communities in Kansas?

Yes, but concentration varies by region. Look at MSAs (metropolitan statistical areas) that skew older; Kansas has plenty of 55+ communities in metro suburbs.