Kansas vs Nebraska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Kansas ranks #27 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 90.1); Kansas carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden and has a 52% higher violent crime rate. Nebraska scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 52% lower in Nebraska (218 vs. 457 in Kansas).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Nebraska (1,379 vs. 1,797 in Kansas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 16% lower in Kansas ($12,741 vs. $15,080 in Nebraska).
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -16 pts | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | 71.1#10 of 50 · A | -16 pts | — | NE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 90.1#11 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,893 · US -$11,758 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$6,893 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,070 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $249,603#10 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$31,070-11% | $368,697 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.55 pts · US 8.74% | 9.33%#35 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 8.74% | NE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+109%) · US 328 | 457#45 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +239+109% | 328 | NE |
| Median household incomeGap -$862 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,514#33 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$862-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#10 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.5#32 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,788 · US -33 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -1,788 | -33 | NE |
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 Kansas or Nebraska better to live in?
Nebraska scores higher overall: 71.1 to 55.1 out of 100, #10 of 50 against #27. Kansas leads 2 of 11 categories, Nebraska leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.1 | 15% | 44.6#28 · C+ | 56.7#12 · B+ | -12.1 pts | NE |
| Safety12% of scoregap -25.3 | 12% | 52.7#44 · D | 78.0#16 · B+ | -25.3 pts | NE |
| Health12% of scoregap -12.4 | 12% | 45.8#33 · C+ | 58.2#25 · B | -12.4 pts | NE |
| Education12% of scoregap -0.6 | 12% | 63.2#21 · B | 63.8#20 · B | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.5 | 10% | 83.1#10 · A | 81.6#12 · B+ | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19 | 8% | 52.4#37 · C | 71.4#8 · A | -19 pts | NE |
| Growth7% of scoregap -9.6 | 7% | 35.6#28 · C+ | 45.2#18 · B+ | -9.6 pts | NE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.1 | 7% | 55.7#11 · B+ | 55.6#12 · B+ | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.4 | 7% | 26.0#38 · C | 32.4#26 · B | -6.4 pts | NE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8.4 | 6% | 30.4#22 · B | 22.0#29 · C+ | +8.4 pts | KS |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.9 | 4% | 48.0#16 · B+ | 44.1#22 · B | +3.9 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 Kansas cheaper than Nebraska?
Kansas and Nebraska cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 90.1 vs 90.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,893 more a year in Kansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 90.1#11 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 94#6 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.22¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +2.22¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.41 (+30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | +$3.41+30% | $15.83/Mcf | NE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.11-3% | $3.32/gal | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,339 (-16%) · US $15,633 | $12,741#14 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$2,339-16% | $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 | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,252 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | +$33,659costs $41,341 | +$1,252 | KS |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,701 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | +$26,386costs $48,614 | +$1,701 | KS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$6,893 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | -$8,385costs $83,385 | +$6,893 | KS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,349 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | +$38,932costs $36,067 | +$1,349 | 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 | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,863 | $18,490 | $21,353 | -$2,863 | KS |
| ChildcareGap -$4,678 | $25,482 | $30,160 | -$4,678 | KS |
| UtilitiesGap $0 | $4,325 | $4,325 | $0 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$11 | $10,587 | $10,598 | -$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$346 | $9,743 | $10,089 | -$346 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,005 | $7,865 | $6,860 | +$1,005 | NE |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Kansas or Nebraska?
Nebraska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.78% vs 9.33%. Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.55 pts · US 8.74% | 9.33%#35 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 8.74% | NE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.38 pts · US 5.46% | 5.58%#26 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | +0.38 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 1.34%#36 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.69%#42 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | +1.71 pts | 6.66% | NE |
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 Kansas or Nebraska?
Homes cost 12% more in Nebraska: a typical home value of $249,603 in Kansas vs $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $74,441 of income in Kansas and $83,194 in Nebraska; the median household earns $75,514 and $76,376.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,070 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $249,603#10 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$31,070-11% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.8%#9 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$208 (-15%) · US $1,948 | $1,205#2 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | -$208-15% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$8,753 (-11%) · US $100,006 | $74,441#13 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | -$8,753-11% | $100,006 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 3.3x#3 of 50 | 3.7x#12 of 50 | -0.4x-11% | 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.
| KS | NE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,284 | $1,444 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +30.3% | +25.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Wichita | Omaha |
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 Kansas or Nebraska?
Median household income is about the same, $75,514 in Kansas and $76,376 in Nebraska, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kansas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 20.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$862 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,514#33 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$862-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#21 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| GDP per capitaGap -$6,172 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $61,165#28 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | -$6,172-9% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | -0.22 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 | KS | NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | $141,411$127,270 in Omaha | NE |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | $223,267$200,940 in Omaha | NE |
| General & Operations Managers | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | $104,988$94,489 in Omaha | NE |
| Civil Engineers | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | $102,437$92,193 in Omaha | NE |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | $69,281$62,353 in Omaha | NE |
| Lawyers | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | $142,516$128,264 in Omaha | NE |
| Registered Nurses | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | $90,051$81,046 in Omaha | NE |
| Mental Health Counselors | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | $56,301$50,671 in Omaha | NE |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | $50,587$45,528 in Omaha | NE |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | $69,523$62,571 in Omaha | NE |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | $58,814$52,933 in Omaha | NE |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | $75,020$67,518 in Omaha | NE |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | $71,723$64,551 in Omaha | NE |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | $101,091$90,982 in Omaha | NE |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | $56,370$50,733 in Omaha | NE |
| Electricians | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | $60,544$54,490 in Omaha | NE |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | $57,030$51,327 in Omaha | NE |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | $81,297$73,167 in Omaha | NE |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | $34,211$30,790 in Omaha | NE |
| Construction Laborers | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | $43,074$38,767 in Omaha | NE |
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 Kansas safer than Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,797 and 1,379 per 100,000.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+109%) · US 328 | 457#45 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +239+109% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +418 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,797#41 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | +418+30% | 1,535 | NE |
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.
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
- Papillion, NE48 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Kansas or Nebraska?
Kansas and Nebraska are close on education (#21 and #20 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 87.1%. Nebraska scores higher for health (#25 vs #33); life expectancy is 76.5 years in Kansas and 78.3 in Nebraska.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 274#24 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 256#31 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#10 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.5#32 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#44 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.5%#34 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 40#23 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +6 pts+18% | 38.8 | NE |
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).
- Gardner, KSeducation score 95
- Gretna, NEeducation score 98
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: Kansas #21, Nebraska #20. Health: Kansas #33, Nebraska #25.
Are more people moving from Kansas to Nebraska, or from Nebraska to Kansas?
1,161 households moved from Kansas to Nebraska and 1,267 moved from Nebraska to Kansas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 106 households for Kansas. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $54,951; movers to Kansas reported $60,383. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,013 people (±1,229) moving from Kansas to Nebraska and 3,236 (±1,585) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +17,778 (+81%) | 39,767#31 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +17,778+81% | KS |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,566 (+83%) | 43,039#21 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +19,566+83% | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,788 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -1,788 | NE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 | -1.1#39 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | -0.4 | NE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,840 (+8%) | $64,708#39 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$4,840+8% | KS |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,714 (+3%) | $68,187#35 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | +$1,714+3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 | -0.2#34 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | 0.0 | Even |
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, Kansas or Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +14 places | #26score 64.2 | #12score 78.8 | +14 places | NE |
| RetireesGap +24 places | #31score 59.6 | #7score 78.2 | +24 places | NE |
| Remote WorkersGap +9 places | #18score 55.7 | #9score 67.2 | +9 places | NE |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +23 places | #29score 52.1 | #6score 69.3 | +23 places | NE |
| Small BusinessGap +20 places | #27score 53.7 | #7score 73.6 | +20 places | NE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #25score 45.2 | #19score 51.4 | +6 places | NE |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNebraska (#12 vs #26)
- RetireesNebraska (#7 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersNebraska (#9 vs #18)
- Young ProfessionalsNebraska (#6 vs #29)
- Small BusinessNebraska (#7 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNebraska (#19 vs #25)
Which cities stand out in Kansas and Nebraska?
Kansas has 20 tracked cities and Nebraska has 20; the largest are Wichita and Omaha. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | KansasKS | NebraskaNE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Wichita397,945 people | Omaha488,837 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Leawoodscore 72.6 | Papillionscore 68.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Leawood71 violent per 100K | Papillion48 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Salinacost index 85.9 | Kearneycost index 86.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 | South Sioux Citywalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 | Scottsbluffcounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Gardner95% graduation rate | Gretna98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 | Gretnamedian income $123,992 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Junction City+2.4% growth | Norfolk+1.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Kansas and Nebraska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Kansas carries AA+ credit rating and Nebraska AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +27 pts · US 29.34% | 61%#8 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +27 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.2 (-15%) · US 29.6 | 41.3#40 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -7.2-15% | 29.6 | KS |
| Public land shareGap -0.8 pts · US 17.16% | 0.6%#50 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 17.16% | NE |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 20 min#7 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#45 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 10.3%#34 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | KS |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#30 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | KS |
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 | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#26 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 2.4%#49 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | -9.9 pts | 12.39% | NE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#28 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,000 (+78%) · US $3,506 | $2,280#15 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$1,000+78% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | NE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Kansas AA+, Nebraska AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Kansas vs Nebraska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Kansas is ahead on 16 of 51, Nebraska on 19, and 16 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | KansasKS | NebraskaNE | GapKS−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +959,214 (+48%) · US 6.8 million | 3 million#34 of 50 | 2 million#38 of 50 | +959,214+48% | 6.8 million | KS |
| Median household incomeGap -$862 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,514#33 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$862-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#21 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | -0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$6,172 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $61,165#28 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | -$6,172-9% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+109%) · US 328 | 457#45 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +239+109% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +418 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,797#41 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | +418+30% | 1,535 | NE |
| High school graduation rateGap +2 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#10 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 237#29 of 50 | 238#22 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 274#24 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 213#34 of 50 | 212#39 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 256#31 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.5#32 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#44 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.5%#34 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,070 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $249,603#10 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$31,070-11% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.8%#9 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$208 (-15%) · US $1,948 | $1,205#2 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | -$208-15% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$8,753 (-11%) · US $100,006 | $74,441#13 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | -$8,753-11% | $100,006 | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 90.1#11 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 3.3x#3 of 50 | 3.7x#12 of 50 | -0.4x-11% | 4.6x | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.22¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +2.22¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.41 (+30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | +$3.41+30% | $15.83/Mcf | NE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.11-3% | $3.32/gal | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 94#6 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,339 (-16%) · US $15,633 | $12,741#14 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$2,339-16% | $15,633 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.55 pts · US 8.74% | 9.33%#35 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 8.74% | NE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.38 pts · US 5.46% | 5.58%#26 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | +0.38 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 1.34%#36 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.69%#42 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | +1.71 pts | 6.66% | NE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#26 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 2.4%#49 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | -9.9 pts | 12.39% | NE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#28 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,000 (+78%) · US $3,506 | $2,280#15 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$1,000+78% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 40#23 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +6 pts+18% | 38.8 | NE |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +27 pts · US 29.34% | 61%#8 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +27 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.2 (-15%) · US 29.6 | 41.3#40 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -7.2-15% | 29.6 | KS |
| Public land shareGap -0.8 pts · US 17.16% | 0.6%#50 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 17.16% | NE |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 20 min#7 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#45 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 10.3%#34 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | KS |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#30 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | KS |
| Households moving inIRSGap +17,778 (+81%) · US 78,682 | 39,767#31 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +17,778+81% | 78,682 | KS |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,566 (+83%) · US 78,715 | 43,039#21 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +19,566+83% | 78,715 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,788 · US -33 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -1,788 | -33 | NE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 · US +0.4 | -1.1#39 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | -0.4 | +0.4 | NE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,840 (+8%) · US $77,690 | $64,708#39 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$4,840+8% | $77,690 | KS |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,714 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $68,187#35 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | +$1,714+3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 · US +1.1 | -0.2#34 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | 0.0 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,893 · US -$11,758 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$6,893 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,252 · US +$31,418 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | +$33,659#21 of 50 | +$1,252 | +$31,418 | KS |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,349 · US +$35,970 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | +$38,932#20 of 50 | +$1,349 | +$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 Kansas and Nebraska numbers say when read together.
Nebraska ranks higher overall
Nebraska leads 6 of the 11 categories to Kansas's 2, with 3 even; Kansas is ahead on outdoor access and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Kansas is ahead on 16 and Nebraska on 19.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 90.1 in Kansas and 90.1 in Nebraska, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $249,603 and $280,673. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$1,492 a year after typical costs in Kansas and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Nebraska takes a smaller share in taxes
Kansas collects 9.33% of income in state and local taxes (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Nebraska collects 8.78% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Nebraska is safer
Median household income is $75,514 in Kansas and $76,376 in Nebraska, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3%. Violent crime runs 457 per 100,000 residents in Kansas and 218 in Nebraska.
Moves between the two run about even
2,013 people moved from Kansas to Nebraska and 3,236 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Nebraska fits families and retirees better
For families, Kansas ranks #26 of 50 and Nebraska #12; for retirees, Kansas ranks #31 and Nebraska #7.
Kansas vs Nebraska: frequently asked questions
Is Kansas or Nebraska better to live in?
Kansas ranks #27 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 90.1); Kansas carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden and has a 52% higher violent crime rate. Nebraska scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Kansas cheaper than Nebraska?
Kansas and Nebraska cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 90.1 vs 90.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$1,492 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Kansas, and -$8,385 in Nebraska. The typical home value is $249,603 in Kansas and $280,673 in Nebraska.
Which has lower taxes, Kansas or Nebraska?
Nebraska has the lower tax burden: 8.78% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Kansas's top income tax rate is 5.58%, its effective property tax rate 1.34% and its combined sales tax 8.69%; Nebraska's are 5.2%, 1.54% and 6.98%.
Is Kansas safer than Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Kansas ranks #45 of 50 for violent crime and Nebraska #12. Property crime is 1,797 per 100,000 in Kansas and 1,379 in Nebraska. The safest tracked cities are Leawood, KS, and Papillion, NE.
Are homes more expensive in Kansas or Nebraska?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Nebraska: the typical home value is $249,603 in Kansas and $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $74,441 of household income in Kansas and $83,194 in Nebraska, against median incomes of $75,514 and $76,376.
Do people earn more in Kansas or Nebraska?
Kansas and Nebraska pay about the same: median household income is $75,514 vs $76,376, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in Kansas and 3% in Nebraska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kansas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 20.
Are more people moving from Kansas to Nebraska or from Nebraska to Kansas?
1,161 households moved from Kansas to Nebraska and 1,267 moved from Nebraska to Kansas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 106 households for Kansas. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $54,951; movers to Kansas reported $60,383. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,013 people (±1,229) moving from Kansas to Nebraska and 3,236 (±1,585) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Kansas or Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for retirees: #7 of 50 on the retiree index vs #31 for Kansas. Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,281 left after typical costs in Kansas and +$38,932 in Nebraska.
Which is better for families, Kansas or Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for families: #12 of 50 on the families index vs #26 for Kansas. Center-based infant care costs $12,741 a year in Kansas and $15,080 in Nebraska. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 87.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$1,492 after typical costs in Kansas and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Is Nebraska better than Kansas?
Yes: Nebraska ranks higher than Kansas overall, #10 of 50 vs #27, with a composite score of 71.1 to 55.1. Nebraska leads 6 of 11 categories and Kansas leads 2, including outdoor access 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 Kansas vs Nebraska.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.