Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kansas City, KS
Thinking of moving to Kansas City, KS? With a population of over 154,000, this city offers affordable living—median home prices are just $153,000 and average 2-bedroom rents around $1,050. Commutes are quick at about 20 minutes, and the area enjoys warm summers, mild winters, and 56% sunny days each year. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Kansas City features strong healthcare options, diverse culture, and access to reputable schools and colleges—making it a practical choice for budget-conscious movers.
Demographics - Kansas City, KS
Demographics - Kansas City, KS
Kansas City, KS is home to around 154,545 residents, with a median age of 34.1 and a moderate population density. The city is culturally diverse, featuring a blend of White (57.2%), Black (26.1%), Asian, and other ethnic groups, and about 17% of locals speak a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to a vibrant community atmosphere and a broad mix of cultural influences.
Population:
154,545
Density:
1,240 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.1
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
57.2%
Black:
26.1%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
13.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kansas City, KS?
Kansas City offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $153,000 and average rents near $1,050 for a two-bedroom. Utilities and transportation expenses are below the national average, and the overall Cost of Living Index stands at 88.7. This makes the city attractive for families and professionals looking for budget-friendly living in a metropolitan area.
Median House Value:
$153,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.7
Grocery:
94.6
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
95.1
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
98.5
Crime
Is Kansas City, KS a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Kansas City, KS are above the national average, with a violent crime rate of 716 incidents per 100,000 people and property crimes affecting about 1 in 29 residents annually. While the city provides many amenities, it's important for new residents to research neighborhoods and take standard safety precautions. Community programs and active law enforcement aim to address these concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
716
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,430
Crime Index:
4,146
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 140
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Kansas City, KS year-round?
Kansas City experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 89°F and winters that are typically mild with lows around 22°F. The city enjoys 56% sunny days and receives about 39 inches of rainfall annually, offering a balance of sunshine and precipitation. This climate is suitable for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Residents of Kansas City typically have a median household income of $56,300 and a family income of $63,800, with a poverty rate of 16.7%. Most neighbors commute around 20 minutes, and public transportation use is low. The area's educational attainment is solid, with over 80% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$28,300
Household Income:
$56,300
Family Income:
$63,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$38,200
Income Female:
$32,100
Poverty Rate:
16.7%
Non English Speakers:
17.4%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
20.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.7%
Bachelors or More:
20.6%
Education
How are the schools in Kansas City, KS?
Kansas City offers a range of educational opportunities, from well-regarded public schools like Sumner Academy to private institutions and higher education at Kansas City Kansas Community College and the University of Kansas Medical Center. Over 80% of adults have completed high school, and 20% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The city supports both families and students with diverse schooling options.

Public Schools
Name:
Sumner Academy of Arts & Science
Street:
1610 N 8th St
Phone:
913-627-7200
Students:
1,045
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1
Name:
Wyandotte High School
Street:
2501 Minnesota Ave
Phone:
913-627-6500
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8

Private Schools
Name:
Bishop Ward High School
Street:
708 N 18th St
Phone:
913-371-1201
Students:
350

Colleges
Name:
Kansas City Kansas Community College
City:
Kansas City
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,500
Name:
University of Kansas Medical Center
City:
Kansas City
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Kansas City is served by major hospitals such as the University of Kansas Health System and Providence Medical Center, both providing comprehensive emergency and surgical care. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, access to medical services is robust. The city's healthcare index of 72.4 indicates reliable and accessible care for most residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
University of Kansas Health System
Address:
4000 Cambridge St, Kansas City, KS 66160
Phone:
(913) 588-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence Medical Center
Address:
8929 Parallel Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66112
Phone:
(913) 596-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.2%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kansas City, KS?
The housing market in Kansas City is affordable, with a median home price of $153,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,050. Owner occupancy stands at 55.6%, and the area sees moderate home appreciation and low foreclosure rates. This stable market is ideal for both buyers and renters seeking budget-friendly options.
Median Home Price:
$153,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Kansas City are managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles, with the main office located in Topeka. The DMV provides services such as driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and titling. Residents can access resources and appointment information online or by phone for convenience.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone:
785-296-3621
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.