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Living in Kansas: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Kansas | Expat Exchange
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Living in Kansas

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 20, 2023

Summary: People describe life in Kansas as peaceful and laid-back. People love the wide open spaces, the friendly people, and the small-town charm. The cost of living in Kansas is generally lower than the national average, with the median home price being around $150,000. The approximate population of Kansas is 2.9 million, and the largest cities are Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Topeka, and Olathe. The cons of living in Kansas include extreme weather, limited job opportunities, and a lack of cultural diversity. Additionally, the state has a high rate of poverty and a lack of public transportation.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Is the cost of living in Kansas high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Kansas, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Kansas is generally considered to be quite affordable. The median rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Kansas is usually around $700-750 USD, while the median rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $800-900 USD. The average price of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Kansas is typically around $15-20 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Kansas.

What type of recreational facilities are in Kansas?

When we asked people living in Kansas about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Kansas, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, trails, and golf courses. Parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Trails provide opportunities for walking, running, and horseback riding. Golf courses provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors while playing a round of golf. Other recreational facilities in Kansas include swimming pools, tennis courts, and disc golf courses. Kansas also has a number of lakes and rivers, which provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities," commented one expat who moved to Kansas.

What is the weather like in Kansas?

"The weather in Kansas can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach into the 90s with high humidity, while in the winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. Kansas is known for its unpredictable weather, so it's important to be prepared for anything," commented one expat who moved to Kansas.

Are there good restaurants in Kansas?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Kansas is Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. Located in Kansas City, this restaurant is known for its delicious smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. The restaurant also serves up classic sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network and has been voted one of the best barbecue restaurants in the country. Another popular restaurant in Kansas is The Anchor. Located in Wichita, this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, crab cakes, and fish tacos. The restaurant also serves up classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great spot for a casual dinner. Finally, one of the most beloved restaurants in Kansas is The Burger Stand at College Hill. Located in Lawrence, this restaurant is known for its delicious burgers, including the classic cheeseburger, the bacon-stuffed burger, and the veggie burger. The restaurant also serves up classic sides like fries, onion rings, and tater tots. The restaurant has a fun atmosphere and is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner," commented one expat living in Kansas.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kansas?

"People living in Kansas typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many people in Kansas shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," said one expat living in Kansas.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Kansas?

"In order to visit or stay in Kansas, certain visa and residency requirements must be met. For visitors, the process for applying for a visa to travel to and stay in Kansas includes filling out an application, submitting documentation such as a valid passport and proof of intent to leave the country upon completion of the visit, and paying a non-refundable fee. For those looking to establish residency in Kansas, the process includes obtaining an accommodation or rental contract in the state, obtaining valid proof of identity such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID, registering to vote, paying Kansas state taxes and applying for an ITIN tax identification number," remarked one expat in Kansas.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kansas?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kansas can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Kansas are higher than the national average, and out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, many health insurance plans in Kansas have high deductibles and copayments, which can make it difficult for individuals to access the care they need," said one expat.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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