Colorado vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.1), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 53% lower in Kansas ($249,603 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 39% lower in Kansas ($12,741 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 37% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $1,922 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.6 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | +9.6 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13 pts+14% | 100 | KS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$33,838 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$33,838 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$283,145 (+113%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$283,145+113% | $368,697 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.6 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-8%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -36-8% | 328 | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,599 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$21,599+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -6.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,613 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +14,613 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Colorado or Kansas better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 55.1 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #27. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 2, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +15.7 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 44.6#28 · C+ | +15.7 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.3 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 52.7#44 · D | -2.3 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +29.6 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 45.8#33 · C+ | +29.6 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +2.1 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 63.2#21 · B | +2.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -30 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 83.1#10 · A | -30 pts | KS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +8 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 52.4#37 · C | +8 pts | CO |
| Growth7% of scoregap -4.6 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 35.6#28 · C+ | -4.6 pts | KS |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.7 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 55.7#11 · B+ | +5.7 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap +8.2 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 26.0#38 · C | +8.2 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +14.1 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 30.4#22 · B | +14.1 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -2.1 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 48.0#16 · B+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Colorado cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $33,838 more a year in Kansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13 pts+14% | 100 | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.7 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.7 pts+5% | 100 | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.29¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +1.29¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.64 (-25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$3.64-25% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,237 (+65%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$8,237+65% | $15,633 | KS |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$9,746 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | -$9,746 | KS |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$13,497 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | -$13,497 | KS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$33,838 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | -$33,838 | KS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$11,795 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | -$11,795 | KS |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$16,447 | $34,937 | $18,490 | +$16,447 | KS |
| ChildcareGap +$16,474 | $41,956 | $25,482 | +$16,474 | KS |
| UtilitiesGap +$624 | $4,949 | $4,325 | +$624 | KS |
| GroceriesGap +$530 | $11,117 | $10,587 | +$530 | KS |
| TransportationGap +$94 | $9,837 | $9,743 | +$94 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$330 | $7,535 | $7,865 | -$330 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 9.33%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.6 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.18 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -1.18 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.85 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.85 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.8 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 6.66% | CO |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Kansas?
Homes cost 113% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $97,113 and $75,514.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$283,145 (+113%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$283,145+113% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.2 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$717 (+60%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$717+60% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$64,317 (+86%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$64,317+86% | $100,006 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.2x (+67%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +2.2x+67% | 4.6x | KS |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| CO | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Denver | Wichita |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $75,514, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$21,599 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$21,599+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,859 (+23%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | +$13,859+23% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap 0 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | 0 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | CO | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | CO |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Colorado safer than Kansas?
Colorado is safer: 422 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,797 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-8%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -36-8% | 328 | CO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +347 (+19%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | +347+19% | 1,535 | KS |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado and Kansas are close on education (#18 and #21 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 89.1%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #33); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -6.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12.6 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KS |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- Gardner, KSeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Colorado #18, Kansas #21. Health: Colorado #7, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Kansas, or from Kansas to Colorado?
2,355 households moved from Colorado to Kansas and 2,283 moved from Kansas to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 72 households for Kansas. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $63,685; movers to Colorado reported $65,569. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,987 people (±2,091) moving from Colorado to Kansas and 1,737 (±749) the other way, a net gain of about 5,250 people for Kansas beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +81,623 (+205%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +81,623+205% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +67,010 (+156%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +67,010+156% | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,613 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +14,613 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.0 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +3.0 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,824 (+28%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$17,824+28% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,353 (+24%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$16,353+24% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | -1.8 | KS |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; Kansas is the better fit for remote workers. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #22score 66.1 | #26score 64.2 | -4 places | CO |
| RetireesGap -15 places | #16score 67 | #31score 59.6 | -15 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #23score 53.8 | #18score 55.7 | +5 places | KS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -9 places | #20score 56.7 | #29score 52.1 | -9 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap -7 places | #20score 59.8 | #27score 53.7 | -7 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -10 places | #15score 55.8 | #25score 45.2 | -10 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #26)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersKansas (#18 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #29)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #25)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Kansas?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Denver and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Junction City+2.4% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -22 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -22 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -23.4 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -23.4-57% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +35.6 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +35.6 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +9.6 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +10.8 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +10.8 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | KS |
| State debt per capitaGap +$840 (+37%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$840+37% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Kansas AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Colorado vs Kansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 22 of 51, Kansas on 20, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | KansasKS | GapCO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,035,341 (+102%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +3,035,341+102% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,599 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$21,599+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap 0 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | 0 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,859 (+23%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | +$13,859+23% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-8%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -36-8% | 328 | CO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +347 (+19%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | +347+19% | 1,535 | KS |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -6.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +8 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | +8 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12.6 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$283,145 (+113%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$283,145+113% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.2 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$717 (+60%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$717+60% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$64,317 (+86%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$64,317+86% | $100,006 | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13 pts+14% | 100 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.2x (+67%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +2.2x+67% | 4.6x | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.29¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +1.29¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.64 (-25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$3.64-25% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.7 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.7 pts+5% | 100 | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,237 (+65%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$8,237+65% | $15,633 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.6 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.18 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -1.18 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.85 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.85 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.8 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +10.8 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +10.8 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | KS |
| State debt per capitaGap +$840 (+37%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$840+37% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KS |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -22 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -22 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -23.4 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -23.4-57% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +35.6 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +35.6 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +9.6 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +81,623 (+205%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +81,623+205% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +67,010 (+156%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +67,010+156% | 78,715 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,613 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +14,613 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.0 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +3.0 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,824 (+28%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$17,824+28% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,353 (+24%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$16,353+24% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | -1.8 | +1.1 | KS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$33,838 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$33,838 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$9,746 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | -$9,746 | +$31,418 | KS |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$11,795 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | -$11,795 | +$35,970 | KS |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Colorado and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 6 of the 11 categories to Kansas's 2, with 3 even; Kansas is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 22 and Kansas on 20.
Kansas is cheaper day to day
Kansas's cost of living index is 90.1 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $249,603 in Kansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Colorado takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Kansas collects 9.33% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more and is safer
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 4% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 457 in Kansas.
People move to Kansas on net
6,987 people moved to Kansas from Colorado in the latest Census release, against 1,737 going the other way.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Kansas #31.
Colorado vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Kansas better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.1), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Colorado cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado has the lower tax burden: 8.73% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Colorado safer than Kansas?
Colorado is safer: 422 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,797 in Kansas. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Kansas?
Homes are 113% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $97,113 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $75,514 in Kansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Kansas or from Kansas to Colorado?
2,355 households moved from Colorado to Kansas and 2,283 moved from Kansas to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 72 households for Kansas. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $63,685; movers to Colorado reported $65,569. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,987 people (±2,091) moving from Colorado to Kansas and 1,737 (±749) the other way, a net gain of about 5,250 people for Kansas beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #31 for Kansas. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Kansas?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #26 for Kansas. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Colorado?
No: Colorado ranks higher than Kansas overall, #18 of 50 vs #27, with a composite score of 64.7 to 55.1. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories and Kansas leads 2, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Colorado vs Kansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,355 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).