Kansas / Shawnee County

Moving to Topeka, KS

Thinking of making a move to Topeka, KS? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Topeka, KS

Considering a move to Topeka, KS? This welcoming community of 125,819 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $136,000 and average rents near $910. Commute times average 17 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (63% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Topeka's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Topeka, KS

Topeka has a population of 125,819 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 38 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 70% White, 11% Black, and 2% Asian residents, and over 8% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
125,819
Density
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age
38.1
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
8.1%

Ethnic Composition

White
69.8%
Black
10.8%
Asian
1.7%
Others
17.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Topeka, KS?

The cost of living in Topeka is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 81.2. Median home values are around $136,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $910. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$136,000
Gross Rent
$910
Monthly Electricity Charges
$120
Auto Insurance
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$430
State Taxes
Low: 3.1%| High: 5.7%
Cost Of Living Index
81.2
Grocery
94.1
Housing
58.7
Utilities
98.5
Transportation
76.4
Health Care
89.0
Miscellaneous
82.0

Crime

Is Topeka, KS a safe place to live?

Topeka is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 574 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 31. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Kansas.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
574
Property Crimes Per 100k
3,207
Crime Index
3,781
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 174
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 31

Weather

What is the weather like in Topeka, KS year-round?

Topeka experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 89°F and cold winters dipping to 19°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 63% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
19°F
Max
41°F

Summer

Min
67°F
Max
89°F

Spring

Min
43°F
Max
69°F

Fall

Min
45°F
Max
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches
36.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
63%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $54,500 and a low poverty rate of 15.1%. Over 89% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 23% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 17 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$32,400
Household Income
$54,500
Family Income
$67,400
Per Capita Income
$30,400
Income Male
$41,900
Income Female
$33,100
Poverty Rate
15.1%
Non English Speakers
8.1%
Rent
$910
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
Public Transport Usage
0.6%
Commute Time
17.3 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
89.4%
Bachelors or More
23.0%

Education

How are the schools in Topeka, KS?

Topeka offers quality education options, with public schools like Topeka High School and Landon Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Washburn University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Topeka High School
Street
800 SW 10th Ave
Phone
785-295-3150
Students
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio
16.2
Name
Landon Middle School
Street
731 SW Fairlawn Rd
Phone
785-438-4220
Students
650
Student Teacher Ratio
13.7

Private Schools

Name
Cair Paravel Latin School
Street
635 SW Clay St
Phone
785-232-3878
Students
470

Colleges

Name
Washburn University
City
Topeka
State
KS
Distance
0 miles
Students
5,800

Healthcare

Topeka residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Stormont Vail Hospital and University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.4 per 1,000 people and 91.7% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Stormont Vail Hospital
Address
1500 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604
Phone
(785) 354-6000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus
Address
1700 SW 7th St, Topeka, KS 66606
Phone
(785) 295-8000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage
91.7%
Health Care Index
78.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Topeka, KS?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $136,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 59%. The market has seen a 6.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 9.6%. Topeka offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$136,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$910
Owner Occupied Rate
58.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
9.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.3%
New Construction Rate
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Topeka handle vehicle services through the Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles, conveniently located in Topeka. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Kansas
Department
Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles
Address
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone
785-296-3621

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.

FAQs About Moving to Topeka, KS

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Topeka, review the core fields on this page: population 125,819, median home value $136,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $910, commute time 17.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 63%.

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