Best Places to Retire in Kansas | Kansas Retirement Communities Guide
Best Places to Retire in Kansas: A Look at Senior Living Options
Thinking about where to spend your golden years? Kansas might not be the first place that pops into your head, but retirees who’ve made the move here will tell you it should be. With its affordable cost of living, friendly communities, and a variety of senior living options, Kansas is quietly becoming one of the best places to retire in the Midwest.
As someone deeply rooted in Kansas City real estate, I’ve seen firsthand how retirees benefit from downsizing into the right home, whether that’s a 55+ community, a low-maintenance condo, or a peaceful small-town property. The right spot can stretch your retirement dollars, give you access to great healthcare, and put you in a community you actually enjoy.
What Is “Retiring in Kansas” All About?
Retiring in Kansas means trading high costs and big-city headaches for open skies, friendly neighbors, and a slower pace of life, without giving up the amenities you want. Many Kansas retirement communities offer everything from fitness centers and walking trails to social clubs and nearby medical care.
In Kansas City real estate, retirees have choices ranging from vibrant suburbs like Overland Park and Leawood to the best small towns to retire in Kansas, like Lawrence or Manhattan. Some prefer the simplicity of rural living, while others opt for active, amenity-rich 55+ developments.
One of my clients, after selling a large family home in KC, moved into a Prairie Village 55+ condo community. She traded yard work for yoga classes, gained new friends, and cut her monthly living expenses by 40%. That’s the Kansas retirement lifestyle in action.
Best Practices / What Retirees Should Know
✅ Choose the Right Community for Your Lifestyle
Active Lifestyle? Look at 55+ communities in Overland Park or Olathe with fitness centers, clubs, and social events.
Cultural Vibe? Lawrence and Manhattan offer college-town energy with art, theater, and sports.
Small-Town Charm? Explore places like North Newton or Fort Scott for peace and affordability.
✅ Consider Cost of Living and Taxes
Kansas offers affordable places to retire compared to national averages, especially in housing.
Social Security income is not taxed for lower-income retirees, and property taxes are lower in many rural counties.
✅ Access to Healthcare
Stay within reach of top hospitals like KU Medical Center, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, or Stormont Vail Health in Topeka.
✅ Downsizing Benefits
Smaller homes mean lower upkeep, reduced utility bills, and more free time for travel or hobbies.
Downsizing in Kansas City real estate can often free up home equity to boost your retirement savings.
Internal links to consider:
Moving Forward with Confidence
Choosing the best places to retire in Kansas comes down to lifestyle, budget, and the kind of community you want to be part of. Whether you picture yourself in a vibrant college town, a suburban 55+ community, or a quiet small town, Kansas offers options that fit nearly every retirement vision.
With decades of experience in flipping, building, and selling homes, I offer sellers and future retirees real options, not just more stress. As an A.I. Certified Agent™, I use smarter tools to match you with the right property and help you make a smooth transition.
If you’re thinking about selling and moving into your dream retirement home, let’s chat. I’ll walk you through your options, from downsizing strategies to finding the perfect spot.
FAQs
FAQs About Retiring in Kansas
What part of Kansas is best to live in?
It depends on your lifestyle. Overland Park and Leawood are great for suburban amenities, Lawrence and Manhattan for culture, and smaller towns like North Newton for peace and affordability.
Is Kansas City good for retirees?
Yes, Kansas City real estate offers lower housing costs, excellent healthcare access, and plenty of entertainment, dining, and cultural events.
How is Kansas for retirement?
Kansas is known for its affordability, friendly communities, and slower pace of life. Plus, many towns have robust senior programs and healthcare access.
Is Missouri or Kansas better for retirees?
Both have benefits. Kansas often has lower property taxes in certain areas, while Missouri can offer more variety in rural settings. Your choice may depend on proximity to family, lifestyle preferences, and tax considerations.
FAQs About Jason DeLong and Heartland Homes KC
Who is Jason DeLong and Heartland Homes KC?
I’m Jason DeLong, a Kansas City based REALTOR® with decades of experience helping clients buy, sell, and invest in real estate.
Do you work with retirees looking to downsize?
Absolutely. I specialize in helping homeowners sell efficiently and find the perfect next-step property.
What areas do you serve in Kansas City and the surrounding region?
I work throughout the Kansas City metro and nearby Kansas and Missouri communities.
