Florida vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.4), carries a 2.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 55% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Florida (275 vs. 457 in Kansas).
- Typical home value is 34% lower in Kansas ($249,603 vs. $375,470 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +4.8 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | +4.8 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.3 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13.3 pts+15% | 100 | KS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,994 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$8,994 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,867 (+50%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$125,867+50% | $368,697 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.84 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.84 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,221 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$2,221+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +58,621 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +58,621 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or Kansas better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 55.1 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #27. Florida leads 4 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 3, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.4 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 44.6#28 · C+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +20.4 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 52.7#44 · D | +20.4 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.7 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 45.8#33 · C+ | +14.7 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap -2.1 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 63.2#21 · B | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -21.2 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 83.1#10 · A | -21.2 pts | KS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +17.8 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 52.4#37 · C | +17.8 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +9.3 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 35.6#28 · C+ | +9.3 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -12.1 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 55.7#11 · B+ | -12.1 pts | KS |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.9 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 26.0#38 · C | +0.9 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2.6 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 30.4#22 · B | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -14 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 48.0#16 · B+ | -14 pts | KS |
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 Florida cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,994 more a year in Kansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.3 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13.3 pts+15% | 100 | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.1 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.1 pts+4% | 100 | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.68¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +0.68¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$10.67 (+72%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$10.67+72% | $15.83/Mcf | KS |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,489 (+12%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$1,489+12% | $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 | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,527 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | -$1,527 | KS |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,028 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | -$4,028 | KS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$8,994 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | -$8,994 | KS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,282 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | -$3,282 | 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 | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,372 | $25,862 | $18,490 | +$7,372 | KS |
| ChildcareGap +$2,978 | $28,460 | $25,482 | +$2,978 | KS |
| UtilitiesGap +$638 | $4,963 | $4,325 | +$638 | KS |
| GroceriesGap +$462 | $11,049 | $10,587 | +$462 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$63 | $9,680 | $9,743 | -$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,393 | $5,472 | $7,865 | -$2,393 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Kansas?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 9.33%. Florida has no income tax, with property 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 | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.84 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.84 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.58 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -5.58 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.71 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -1.71 pts | 6.66% | FL |
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 Florida or Kansas?
Homes cost 50% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $77,735 and $75,514.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,867 (+50%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$125,867+50% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,461 (+121%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$1,461+121% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$33,839 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$33,839+45% | $100,006 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +1.5x+45% | 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.
| FL | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | 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 Florida or Kansas?
Median household income is about the same, $77,735 in Florida and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.8%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,221 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$2,221+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$510 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$510-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.45 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 | FL | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | FL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | FL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | FL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | FL |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | FL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | FL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | FL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | FL |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | FL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | FL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | FL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | FL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | FL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | FL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | FL |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | FL |
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 Florida safer than Kansas?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,797 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -395 (-22%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -395-22% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Kansas?
Florida and Kansas are close on education (#23 and #21 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 89.1%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #33); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -8 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- 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: Florida #23, Kansas #21. Health: Florida #19, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Florida to Kansas, or from Kansas to Florida?
1,848 households moved from Florida to Kansas and 2,142 moved from Kansas to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 294 households for Florida. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,339; movers to Florida reported $99,221. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,512 people (±1,065) moving from Florida to Kansas and 4,722 (±1,935) the other way, a net gain of about 2,210 people for Florida 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 | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +314,345 (+790%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +314,345+790% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +255,724 (+594%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +255,724+594% | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +58,621 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +58,621 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +3.5 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$57,831 (+89%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$57,831+89% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,947 (+12%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$7,947+12% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +1.2 | FL |
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, Florida or Kansas?
Florida is the better fit for retirees, young professionals, and small business; Kansas is the better fit for remote workers; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #24score 65.4 | #26score 64.2 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -13 places | #18score 66.2 | #31score 59.6 | -13 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap +9 places | #27score 51.6 | #18score 55.7 | +9 places | KS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #24score 53.9 | #29score 52.1 | -5 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #19score 62.4 | #27score 53.7 | -8 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #26score 44.3 | #25score 45.2 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#24 vs #26)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersKansas (#18 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #29)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#26 vs #25)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Kansas?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% 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 Florida and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -51 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -51 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.8 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -18.8-46% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +25.7 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +25.7 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +8.9 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +9.3 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$320 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$320-14% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, 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).
Florida vs Kansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 24 of 51, Kansas on 17, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | KansasKS | GapFL−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +20,485,298 (+688%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +20,485,298+688% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,221 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$2,221+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.45 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$510 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$510-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -395 (-22%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -395-22% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -8 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,867 (+50%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$125,867+50% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,461 (+121%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$1,461+121% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$33,839 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$33,839+45% | $100,006 | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.3 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +13.3 pts+15% | 100 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +1.5x+45% | 4.6x | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.68¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +0.68¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$10.67 (+72%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$10.67+72% | $15.83/Mcf | KS |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.1 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.1 pts+4% | 100 | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,489 (+12%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$1,489+12% | $15,633 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.84 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.84 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.58 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -5.58 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.71 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -1.71 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +9.3 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$320 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$320-14% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -51 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -51 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.8 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -18.8-46% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +25.7 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +25.7 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +8.9 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +314,345 (+790%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +314,345+790% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +255,724 (+594%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +255,724+594% | 78,715 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +58,621 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +58,621 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +3.5 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$57,831 (+89%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$57,831+89% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,947 (+12%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$7,947+12% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +1.2 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,994 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$8,994 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,527 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | -$1,527 | +$31,418 | KS |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,282 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | -$3,282 | +$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 Florida and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 4 of the 11 categories to Kansas's 3, with 4 even; Kansas is ahead on affordability and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 24 and Kansas on 17.
Kansas is cheaper day to day
Kansas's cost of living index is 90.1 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $249,603 in Kansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property 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).
Florida is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 457 in Kansas.
People move to Florida on net
4,722 people moved to Florida from Kansas in the latest Census release, against 2,512 going the other way.
Florida is the better fit for retirees
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Kansas #31.
Florida vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Kansas better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.4), carries a 2.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 90.1 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Kansas?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Florida safer than Kansas?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,797 in Kansas. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Kansas?
Homes are 50% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $77,735 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Florida or Kansas?
Florida and Kansas pay about the same: median household income is $77,735 vs $75,514, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Kansas or from Kansas to Florida?
1,848 households moved from Florida to Kansas and 2,142 moved from Kansas to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 294 households for Florida. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,339; movers to Florida reported $99,221. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,512 people (±1,065) moving from Florida to Kansas and 4,722 (±1,935) the other way, a net gain of about 2,210 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Kansas?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #31 for Kansas. Florida has no income tax, with property 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 +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Florida or Kansas?
Florida and Kansas are close for families: #24 and #26 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Kansas overall, #21 of 50 vs #27, with a composite score of 59.9 to 55.1. Florida leads 4 of 11 categories and Kansas leads 3, including affordability and environment. 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 Florida vs Kansas.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,142 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).