How does a state with no coastline make hunting whales illegal? Only in Kansas!
Whether you remember Kansas as the earthly hometown of Clark Kent or a place with endless flatlands and wheat fields, the Sunflower State has surprises waiting at every turn.
However, as a new resident, you sure don't want these surprises to catch you in the most unlikely of circumstances. From record-breaking hailstones to historic landmarks, Kansas has more than a few surprises up its sleeve.
So, let's examine the pros and cons of living in Kansas, which may help you better understand the state and see how it's more than a pit stop on a cross-country road trip.
From being the birthplace of Pizza Hut, home to Amelia Earhart, and the location of Dodge City, Kansas, it has proven to be a place steeped in Wild West lore.
But let's look at other practical pros of living in Kansas beyond its claim to Western lore.
Is Kansas a good state to live in? Yes, it is, especially if you are on a budget. Kansas is a dream come true for your wallet.
The cost of living is 14% lower than the U.S. average!
While you may spend a tad more on utilities, the savings you will make from the other expenses will go a long way in giving you a comfortable life.
With only about $2,600 per month, you can live comfortably in Kansas as a single person. Meanwhile, with a family, you only need about $3,090 monthly.
Housing costs are over 30% below the national average. Meaning you can snag a spacious home without selling your soul to a mortgage lender.
If financial breathing room is your thing, Kansas deserves a thumbs up.
You may consider it one of the pros and cons of living in Kansas, but life here feels like a deep exhale.
There's no rush-hour frenzy (unless you count the occasional tractor on a two-lane road), not even with Kansas movers during peak season.
The people here genuinely value work-life balance.
A slower pace lets you enjoy life's little pleasures, like a stroll in one of Kansas' parks or chatting with a neighbor over sweet tea.
Still on relaxation, quality of life, and the scenic beauty of Kansas, let's talk about the skies. Kansas sunsets are works of art, blending fiery reds, oranges, and purples into a jaw-dropping canvas.
Yet another Kansas pros and cons (depending on your perspective) is that the flat terrain gives you an unobstructed view.
Every evening feels like a free ticket to nature's best show.
That's not all!
You can either take a selfie with the World's Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City or immerse yourself in the expanse of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
The cliffs of the Smoky Hills are another site to visit for a uniquely Kansas experience.
As someone new to a place, nothing can help you settle in faster in Kansas than the Midwestern niceness.
It's more than just a stereotype here. The Midwestern niceness is alive and well in Kansas.
Whether you need to borrow a cup of sugar or fix a flat tire, your neighbors are always ready to help.
Kansas is the jackpot if you have a knack for working in agriculture.
Farming is king and queen here!
The state contributes significantly to the nation's wheat, corn, and cattle industries. However, the retail, healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries significantly contribute to the economy.
Tech jobs are part of the growing sectors in the state, so there's an opportunity beyond these fields, too.
Kansas residents enjoy relatively low taxes compared to many other states.
There is no state tax on Social Security benefits, and property taxes are moderate. This means retirees and families can stretch their dollars further.
For anyone looking to save more of their hard-earned money, the state's lower overall tax burden supports this goal.
It's ideal to weigh both the pros and cons of living in Kansas when considering relocation here.
Some of these cons include:
Kansas weather can get unpredictable.
One day, it's sunny and 75°F, and the next, you are huddling in a basement during a tornado warning. Yes, tornadoes are a real risk here in Kansas since its geographical location is right in Tornado Alley.
Winters can be bitterly cold, falling below 22°F, especially in February. Summers come with sweltering and a side of humidity.
If you are unfamiliar with this meteorological drama, brace yourself for Kansas.
Kansas is charming, no doubt. But it's no New York or Los Angeles.
The nightlife is subdued, and cultural activities are less frequent than in larger metropolitan areas.
But, even without the excesses, is Kansas a nice place to live? Well, if you thrive on bustling city vibes, it might feel a bit too quiet.
What is Kansas like? For those who love hiking or scenic mountain views, Kansas' flat landscapes might disappoint.
While the open plains have their beauty, they lack the geographical variety some people crave.
If elevation gets your heart racing, you may yearn for a quick trip to Colorado (it is quite close to Kansas anyway).
Kansas is a car-dependent state. More than 87% of the residents own cars and drive themselves around.
You may be lucky to live where there is public transportation. But these options have limits, especially outside of bigger cities like Wichita.
Getting around could be a hassle if you don't own a vehicle. Plan on getting one, as walking to destinations is not always practical in this sprawling state.
Kansas is home to warm and welcoming communities, but one of the pros and cons of living there is that it's not particularly diverse.
The state has a predominantly White population.
While pockets of cultural diversity exist in cities like Wichita and Kansas City, smaller towns often lack representation of various racial and ethnic groups.
In the end, it becomes a challenge for individuals seeking a more multicultural environment or those looking for diverse food, traditions, or cultural events.
Living in Kansas has its undeniable perks, from affordable living to welcoming communities.
Kansas might win your heart if you are after an affordable lifestyle with some natural beauty. But if the flat terrain or weather challenges get to you, there's always a friendly neighbor or a stellar sunset to lift your spirits.
Regardless, you should weigh the pros and cons of living in Kansas before deciding if that spot in the state truly has your name on it.
