Living in Kansas: Pros, Cons, and What People Don’t Always Tell You

✨ Quick Take

• Kansas offers affordability, space, and strong community values, but also comes with weather extremes and fewer urban perks

• It’s a smart move for families, remote workers, and people craving lifestyle freedom

• This guide breaks down both the hype and the realities

• Includes stats, tips, and real-world advice from someone who actually lives and works here

🛬 Considering a Move to Kansas?

Would you trade high prices and heavy traffic for peace of mind and a lower mortgage?
That’s the question more people are asking, and it’s leading them straight to Kansas.

According to U.S. News & World Report, Kansas ranks among the top 10 most affordable states in the U.S. That alone is enough to make buyers and remote workers take a second look.

I’ve helped dozens of families, first-time buyers, and out-of-state relocators plant roots here. And here’s the truth: Kansas works great for some people and not for others. In this post, I’ll give you the straight scoop, backed by stats and real experience, so you can decide if this is the right next step for you.

And when you’re ready, our Kansas City relocation guide will help you make a smooth landing.

✅ Why People Love Living in Kansas

💰 The Cost of Living Stretches Further Here

Kansas makes your money go farther. Whether you're buying a home, filling up your gas tank, or buying groceries, things just cost less.

Examples:

• 3-bed, 2-bath homes in suburban areas start in the $230K–$270K range

• Lower property taxes compared to Missouri and most coastal states

• Gas, food, and utilities all come in under national averages

Want to see for yourself? Browse Kansas City homes for sale and compare the square footage you’d get here to what you’d get in, say, Denver or Dallas.

🤝 Community Comes Standard

People don’t just move to Kansas for a house—they move for the culture of kindness. In smaller towns and even KC suburbs, folks wave when you pass by. Your kids will know their teachers by name. The post office still matters. It’s Midwest nice, and it’s real.

🌿 Room to Breathe, Literally and Figuratively

Kansas offers wide open spaces, low traffic, and peace that’s hard to find in big cities. Whether you're buying a hobby farm, building your dream home on 10 acres, or just want a quiet cul-de-sac, there's space to build the life you want.

One client of mine, a remote UX designer from LA, moved here and said, “It’s the first time I’ve been able to think clearly in years.”

🏠 Great for Remote Workers & Entrepreneurs

You don’t need to live in a major city to thrive anymore. With Kansas' fast internet rollout and low overhead, this state is becoming a sleeper hub for remote productivity and startup freedom.

Want a backyard office, a dedicated gym, or a workshop? You can afford to build it here.

❌ What You Might Not Love About It

🌪 Weather That Can Flip on You Fast

The sunsets are beautiful, but yes, tornadoes are real. Kansas weather comes with extremes: hot summers, surprise hailstorms, and “four seasons in a week” swings.

It’s not unlivable by any stretch, but if you’re coming from California or Arizona, it takes adjusting.

🚙 A Car is Basically Required

Unless you’re in downtown Kansas City or Lawrence, public transit options are minimal. That means you’ll need to drive, for everything from groceries to work commutes.

If you’re used to walkable cities or light rail, this can be a challenge.

🎭 Smaller Towns = Smaller Social Scenes

Don’t expect Brooklyn nightlife or LA concert calendars. While KC, Wichita, and college towns like Lawrence offer culture and fun, rural areas lean more toward:

• Local BBQ joints

• Church events

• Friday night football

For some, that’s perfect. For others, it’s limiting. It all depends on what fills your cup.

🏥 Limited Specialized Care in Rural Zones

Major cities have excellent hospitals and clinics. But if you’re living further out, getting to a neurologist or specialist might mean an hour+ drive. This is especially important if you're moving with aging parents or chronic conditions.

🎯 So... Should You Move to Kansas?

That depends on what you value.
If you're looking for affordability, freedom, peace, and people who genuinely care—Kansas delivers. But if you need big-city buzz, fast-paced living, and constant entertainment, it might feel too quiet.

Start by checking out our guide to creative selling and moving options if you’re still weighing your options.

📦 Ready to Explore Kansas Real Estate?

I’d love to show you what Kansas has to offer, on both sides of the state line. From family-friendly suburbs in Johnson County to historic homes near downtown, I’ll help you narrow your search and simplify your move.

📲 Text "KANSAS MOVE" to (816) 651-5190 and I’ll send you my complete Kansas lifestyle guide—schools, neighborhoods, pricing strategies, and financing options included.

Or just message me here if you have a quick question.

❓ Real Questions I Get from Buyers

“Is Kansas a good place to raise kids?”
Yes. Affordable homes, solid public schools, and room to roam. It’s ideal for young families.

“What’s the catch with the low cost of living?”
It’s mostly a slower pace and less nightlife. If you’re cool with that, it’s a win.

“What’s better—Kansas or Missouri side of KC?”
Both are great. Kansas side has newer developments and top-tier schools (think: Johnson County). Missouri side has more historic homes and often better price-per-foot deals.

“Can I work remotely from Kansas and still be connected?”
Absolutely. With fast internet and low overhead, many professionals say they’re more productive than ever.

🙋 Who I Am and How I Can Help

I’m Jason DeLong, founder of Heartland Homes KC with eXp Realty. I’m a Kansas City native, AI-certified agent, and I work with buyers, sellers, and investors across Kansas and Missouri.

• First-time buyer? I’ll guide you.

• Moving from out of state? I’ll streamline everything.

• Curious about seller financing or creative options? Let’s talk strategy.

You don’t need to figure this out alone.