Are you thinking about relocating to Kansas? 

Newcomers from all over the nation are drawn to the Sunflower State because of its alluring combination of affordability, open area, and midwestern charm.

Kansas is a desirable option to expensive states because of its affordable cost of living, which is significantly lower than the national average, and affordable housing costs allowing for homeownership.

Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a family-friendly community, or simply looking for a more affordable lifestyle, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before moving to Kansas.

From weather considerations to the best places to live, we've got you covered with local insights that will help make your transition smooth and successful.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Kansas

It's crucial to consider the benefits and drawbacks of living in Kansas before preparing to move to the Heartland. An honest look at what to anticipate is provided here:

Benefits of Living in Kansas

• Significantly lower cost of living (17% below the national average)
  
  
• Affordable housing with median home prices around $177,000
  
  
• Short commute times (average of 19.2 minutes vs. 26.4 national average)
  
  
• Experience all four distinct seasons
  
  
• Strong sense of community and friendly neighbors
  
  
• Excellent barbecue and diverse food scene
  
  
• Low population density with plenty of space
  
  
• Strong job market in aerospace, agriculture, and manufacturing

Challenges of Living in Kansas

• Extreme weather including tornadoes (60 per year on average).
  
  
• Higher than average income taxes (with rates from 3.1% to 5.7%, mid-tier ranking).
  
  
• Limited public transportation outside major cities.
  
  
• Long distances between towns in rural areas.
  
  
• Few direct flight options from smaller airports.
  
  
• Limited entertainment options in rural communities.
  
  
• Flat terrain may lack scenic variety for some.
  
  
• Excise taxes on vehicles (6.3%-7.65%) when moving from another state with untaxed vehicles.

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Essential Things to Know Before Moving to Kansas

Relocating to a new state always comes with a learning curve. Here are some important facts and considerations to prepare you for life in Kansas:

Weather and Climate Considerations

Kansas experiences all four seasons distinctly, with hot summers, cold winters, and beautiful spring and fall seasons. However, the state is known for its extreme weather patterns:

• Tornado Season: Kansas ranks second in the U.S. for tornadoes, averaging 60 per year. Most occur between April and June.
  
  
• Wind: Home to Dodge City, the windiest city in America, with average wind speeds of 14 mph.
  
  
• Temperature Swings: Rapid temperature changes of 40+ degrees in a single day are not uncommon.
  
  
• Winter Weather: Snowfall averages 19 inches statewide, with northwestern Kansas seeing up to 40 inches annually.

Tornado Preparedness Tip: When moving to Kansas, make sure your home has a basement or storm shelter. If not, identify the most interior room on the lowest floor as your safe space during tornado warnings.

Legal Requirements When Moving to Kansas

After moving to Kansas, you'll need to complete several administrative tasks within 90 days:

• Obtain a Kansas driver's license at your local DMV
  
  
• Register your vehicle and pay applicable excise taxes (6.3%-7.65% for untaxed vehicles from other states)
  
  
• Register to vote at your new address
  
  
• Update your address with USPS, banks, and other institutions
  
  
• File for homestead exemption if you purchase property

Kansas Culture and Lifestyle

Kansas has a distinct cultural identity shaped by its agricultural heritage and midwestern values:

• Community Focus: Kansans are known for their friendliness and community involvement.
  
  
• Sports Loyalty: College basketball is huge, with fierce rivalries between Kansas Jayhawks and K-State Wildcats.
  
  
• BBQ Culture: Kansas City-style barbecue is a point of pride, featuring slow-smoked meats with tomato and molasses-based sauces.
  
  
• Wizard of Oz References: Yes, you'll hear them often. Locals have heard all the jokes, so try to be original!

Cost of Living When Moving to Kansas

One of the biggest draws for people moving to Kansas is the affordable cost of living. Here's how Kansas compares to the national average:

Housing Affordability in Kansas

Housing costs in Kansas are significantly lower than the national average, making homeownership attainable for many residents:

• Median home value: ~$177,000 (compared to $291,700 nationally)
  
  
• Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: ~$991 (compared to $1,200+ nationally)
  
  
• Over 70% of Kansas residents are homeowners
  
  
• Property taxes average 1.4% of home value (15th highest in the nation)

Moving Tip: When budgeting for your Kansas move, remember to factor in vehicle excise tax (6.3%-7.65%) if you're bringing a car from out of state with no prior tax. This is based on the value and age of your vehicle.

Best Places to Live When Moving to Kansas

Kansas offers diverse living options from bustling suburbs to quiet rural communities. Here are some of the top places to consider when relocating:

Overland Park

Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in America, Overland Park offers excellent schools, abundant parks, and a strong job market:

• Population: 188,687
  
  
• Median Home Value: $261,200
  
  
• Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
  
  
• Top employers include Sprint, Black & Veatch, and YRC Worldwide
  
  
• Excellent public schools and family-friendly amenities
  
  
• Easy access to Kansas City attractions
  
  

Wichita

As Kansas' largest city, Wichita offers urban amenities with a lower cost of living than many comparable cities:

• Population: 395,699
  
  
• Median Home Value: $138,100
  
  
• Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
  
  
• Known as "The Air Capital of the World," with major aerospace employers
  
  
• Vibrant arts scene and affordable cultural attractions
  
  
• Diverse dining options and entertainment venues
  
  

Olathe

A rapidly growing suburb with excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods:

• Population: 135,986
  
  
• Median Home Value: $224,000
  
  
• Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
  
  
• Ranked among the best places to raise a family
  
  
• Strong tech and healthcare job sectors
  
  
• Excellent parks and recreation facilities

Lawrence

Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with cultural amenities:

• Population: 95,256
  
  
• Median Home Value: $204,800
  
  
• High education rates: 54.9% with a bachelor's degree or higher
  
  
• Thriving arts scene with galleries and public art
  
  
• Excellent dining and entertainment options
  
  
• Beautiful outdoor recreation at Clinton Lake

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Job Market and Economy in Kansas

Kansas offers diverse employment opportunities across several thriving industries. Understanding the job market can help you plan your move more effectively:

Key Industries in Kansas

The Kansas economy is diverse, with several strong sectors offering employment opportunities:

• Aerospace: Wichita is known as the "Air Capital of the World," with employers like Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation, and Bombardier
  
  
• Agriculture: Kansas ranks 7th nationally in agricultural production, particularly wheat, corn, and cattle
  
  
• Advanced Manufacturing: From automotive components to food processing equipment.
  
  
• Healthcare: A growing sector with major employers like the University of Kansas Health System
  
  
• Energy: Both traditional oil/gas and renewable wind energy (Kansas ranks in the top 5 for wind production)
  
  
• Bioscience: Emerging sector with research facilities and animal health companies

Employment Statistics

Kansas offers a stable job market with opportunities across various sectors:

• Unemployment rate: 3.8% (close to the national average of 3.7%)
  
  
• Job growth over the past year: 0.5%
  
  
• Projected 10-year job growth: 25.7% (national average: 33.5%)
  
  
• Median household income: ~$66,000 (slightly below the national average of $70,784)

Top Employers in Kansas

These major companies provide thousands of jobs throughout the state:

• Koch Industries (Wichita)
  
  
• Sprint (Overland Park)
  
  
• Spirit AeroSystems (Wichita)
  
  
• University of Kansas (Lawrence)
  
  
• Textron Aviation (Wichita)
  
  
• Black & Veatch (Overland Park)
  
  
• Garmin International (Olathe)
  
  
• AMC Theatres (Leawood)

Education in Kansas

For families moving to Kansas, the state offers strong educational options from K-12 through higher education:

K-12 Education

Kansas public schools generally perform well, with several districts receiving national recognition:

• Blue Valley School District (Overland Park) consistently ranks among the best in the nation
  
  
• Olathe Public Schools offers excellent special education programs
  
  
• Kansas ranks 15th nationally in high school graduation rates at 87%
  
  
• Strong emphasis on STEM education throughout the state
  
  
• Several high-quality private and parochial school options are available

Higher Education

Kansas is home to excellent universities and community colleges:

• University of Kansas (Lawrence) - Flagship state university with strong research programs
  
  
• Kansas State University (Manhattan) - Known for agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine
  
  
• Wichita State University - Strong aerospace engineering and business programs
  
  
• Pittsburg State University - Excellent technology and education programs
  
  
• Johnson County Community College - One of the nation's top community colleges

Things to Do After Moving to Kansas

Kansas offers plenty of attractions and activities to explore once you've settled in:

Outdoor Recreation

Despite its reputation for being flat, Kansas offers diverse outdoor activities:

• Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve - Experience the native prairie ecosystem
  
  
• Flint Hills - Beautiful rolling hills with spectacular sunsets
  
  
• Clinton Lake - Boating, fishing, and 25 miles of hiking trails
  
  
• Kanopolis State Park - Hiking, camping, and water recreation
  
  
• Hunting and fishing opportunities throughout the state

Cultural Attractions

Kansas has a rich cultural heritage with museums and historical sites:

• Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum (Abilene)
  
  
• Cosmosphere Space Museum (Hutchinson)
  
  
• Kansas Museum of History (Topeka)
  
  
• Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site (Topeka)
  
  
• Strataca Underground Salt Museum (Hutchinson)

Food and Dining

Kansas offers delicious culinary experiences, especially for meat lovers:

• Kansas City-style barbecue - Try burnt ends, a regional specialty.
  
  
• Farmers markets throughout the state feature fresh local produce.
  
  
• German Mennonite cuisine in central Kansas.
  
  
• Craft breweries and distilleries are gaining popularity.
  
  
• Farm-to-table restaurants showcase local ingredients.

Tips for Moving to Kansas

Planning your relocation to Kansas? These practical tips will help make your move smoother:

Best Time to Move to Kansas

Consider these seasonal factors when planning your move:

• Summer (June-August): Popular moving season with longer days, but can be very hot and humid.
  
  
• Fall (September-October): Ideal weather with mild temperatures and less severe weather.
  
  
• Spring (April-May): Beautiful but riskier due to tornado season.
  
  
• Winter (November-March): Challenging due to potential snow and ice, especially in northern Kansas.

Moving Logistics

Practical considerations for your Kansas relocation:

• Book moving services 4-8 weeks in advance, especially during summer.
  
  
• If using a rental truck, reserve early and consider one-way options.
  
  
• For DIY moves, consider hiring labor-only movers to help with loading and unloading
  
  
• Update your address with USPS at least two weeks before moving.
  
  
• Research utility providers in your new area and schedule connections

Weather Alert: Pay attention to weather forecasts for severe storms or tornadoes if you're relocating in the spring or summer. If required, have a plan to change or postpone your moving date.

Cost-Saving Moving Tips

Moving to Kansas can be affordable with these strategies:

• Compare quotes from multiple moving companies or truck rental services.
  
  
• Consider a hybrid move: rent your own truck but hire labor help for loading/unloading.
  
  
• Declutter before moving to reduce the volume of items.
  
  
• Collect free boxes from local stores or online marketplaces.
  
  
• Move during off-peak times (mid-week, mid-month) for better rates.

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What Our Kansas Customers Say

"After moving to Kansas from California, I was worried about the physical strain of unloading our U-Haul. Caddy Moving's team arrived on time and had our entire truck unloaded in just 2 hours. Best money I spent on our move to Wichita!"

— Sarah T., Wichita

"As a military family relocating to Fort Leavenworth, we needed reliable help with our DIY move. The Caddy Moving crew was professional, careful with our belongings, and made our transition to Kansas much easier."

— James M., Fort Leavenworth

"Moving to Overland Park from Chicago, we wanted to save money but needed help with the heavy lifting. Caddy Moving provided exactly what we needed—affordable labor help without the full-service moving price tag."

— Michelle K., Overland Park

How Our Kansas Moving Help Works

Caddy Moving makes it easy to get affordable labor help for your move to Kansas:

• Book Online Tell us about your move to Kansas, including location, date, and what items you need help with. Get an instant quote based on your needs.
  
  

• Get Matched We'll match you with experienced local Kansas movers who know your area and can handle everything from furniture to boxes.
  
  

• Move with Ease Our team arrives on moving day to handle the heavy lifting while you supervise. You control the truck, we provide the muscle.

Perfect for DIY Movers: Our labor-only services are ideal if you're renting a U-Haul, Penske, or Budget truck, using a portable storage container like PODS, or just need help moving items within your new Kansas home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Kansas

What is the cost of living in Kansas compared to the national average?

The cost of living in Kansas is approximately 17% below the national average, with an overall cost index of 83.1%. Housing is particularly affordable, with a median home price of ~$177,000 and an average 2-bedroom rent of ~$991, compared to national figures of $291,700 and $1,200+ respectively.

What are the major industries and employers in Kansas?

Kansas has a diverse economy with strong sectors in aerospace (e.g., Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation), agriculture (7th nationally in production), advanced manufacturing, healthcare (e.g., University of Kansas Health System), energy (top 5 in wind production), and bioscience. Top employers include Koch Industries, Sprint, and Garmin International.

How is the job market in Kansas?

The job market is stable with an unemployment rate of 3.8% (close to the national 3.7%), a 0.5% job growth over the past year, and a projected 10-year growth of 25.7%. The median household income is ~$66,000, slightly below the national average of $70,784.

What are the best places to live in Kansas?

Top areas include Overland Park (family-friendly, $261,200 median home), Wichita (aerospace hub, $138,100 median home), Olathe (suburban, $224,000 median home), and Lawrence (college town, $204,800 median home). Choices depend on lifestyle and budget.

What are the transportation options in Kansas?

Kansas is largely car-dependent, with limited public transportation outside major cities like Wichita and Overland Park. Average commute time is 19.2 minutes, and major highways (e.g., I-70, I-35) connect the state, though rural distances can be long.

What is the weather like in Kansas?

Kansas has four distinct seasons, with hot summers (90s in June-August), cold winters (19 inches snowfall statewide, up to 40 inches northwest), and extreme weather including 60 tornadoes annually (April-June peak) and 14 mph average winds in Dodge City.

What should I know about taxes when moving to Kansas?

Kansas has a progressive income tax (3.1% to 5.7%, mid-tier ranking) and property taxes averaging 1.4% of home value (15th highest). New residents may face vehicle excise taxes (6.3%-7.65%) on untaxed vehicles from other states.

Are there good schools in Kansas?

Yes, Kansas offers strong education with the Blue Valley and Olathe school districts ranking highly, an 87% high school graduation rate (15th nationally), and a focus on STEM. Universities like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University are notable.

What are some things to do in Kansas beyond the basics?

Explore outdoor spots like Tallgrass Prairie and Clinton Lake, cultural sites like the Eisenhower Presidential Library, and enjoy Kansas City-style barbecue or craft breweries.

What’s the best time to move to Kansas?

Fall (September-October) and spring (April-May) offer mild weather, though spring risks tornadoes. Avoid summer (hot and humid) or winter (snow/ice) if possible, and align with school calendars if moving with kids.

Ready to Start Your Journey to Kansas?

A more economical lifestyle with welcoming communities, stunning scenery, and a strong feeling of heartland values can be had by relocating to Kansas.

Even though the state has drawbacks, including harsh weather and high taxes, many people find it to be a desirable place to live because of its affordable cost of living and easy access to homeownership.

Whether you're relocating to vibrant Overland Park, the bustling city of Wichita, or a charming small town, Kansas welcomes newcomers with open arms and plenty of sunflowers.

As you prepare for your move, remember that proper planning and local help can make your transition to the Sunflower State smooth and successful. 

Let Us Help With Your Kansas Move

Save money on your move to Kansas with our affordable labor-only moving services. Get the help you need without the full-service price tag.

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