Ohio vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Ohio (276 vs. 457 in Kansas).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 21% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $1,522 in Ohio).
- Property crime rate is 20% lower in Ohio (1,429 vs. 1,797 in Kansas).
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -3 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | -3 pts | — | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.7 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +2.7 pts+3% | 100 | KS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,826 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$1,826 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$800 (0%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$8000% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,302 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,302-4% | $80,903 | KS |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,722 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -4,722 | -33 | KS |
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 Ohio or Kansas better to live in?
Kansas scores higher overall: 55.1 to 52.1 out of 100, #27 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 4 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.3 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 44.6#28 · C+ | -14.3 pts | KS |
| Safety12% of scoregap +19.9 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 52.7#44 · D | +19.9 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap -1 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 45.8#33 · C+ | -1 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.2 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 63.2#21 · B | +4.2 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.7 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 83.1#10 · A | -4.7 pts | KS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.2 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 52.4#37 · C | +4.2 pts | OH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -4.6 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 35.6#28 · C+ | -4.6 pts | KS |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.6 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 55.7#11 · B+ | -3.6 pts | KS |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.8 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 26.0#38 · C | +3.8 pts | OH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -20.4 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 30.4#22 · B | -20.4 pts | KS |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.8 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 48.0#16 · B+ | -12.8 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 Ohio cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,826 more a year in Kansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.7 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +2.7 pts+3% | 100 | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.40¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +2.40¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.96 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$0.96-6% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,195 (+9%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$1,195+9% | $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 | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,748 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | +$1,748 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$798 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | +$798 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,826 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | -$1,826 | KS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$916 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | +$916 | Even |
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 | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$165 | $18,655 | $18,490 | +$165 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$2,390 | $27,872 | $25,482 | +$2,390 | KS |
| UtilitiesGap +$129 | $4,454 | $4,325 | +$129 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$34 | $10,553 | $10,587 | -$34 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$471 | $10,214 | $9,743 | +$471 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,296 | $6,569 | $7,865 | -$1,296 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio and Kansas collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.36% vs 9.33%. Ohio has high 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 | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.42 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.4 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 6.66% | OH |
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 Ohio or Kansas?
Typical home values are about the same: $248,803 in Ohio and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $72,212 and $75,514.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$800 (0%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$8000% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$317 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$317+26% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$3,324 (-4%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$3,324-4% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| OH | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | 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 Ohio or Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income $75,514 vs $72,212, with unemployment at 4.6% in Ohio and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,302 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,302-4% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | KS |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,666 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$2,666-4% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | -0.06 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 | OH | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | OH |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | OH |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | OH |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | OH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | OH |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | OH |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | OH |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | OH |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | OH |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | OH |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | OH |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | OH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | OH |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | OH |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | OH |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | OH |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | OH |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | OH |
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 Ohio safer than Kansas?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,797 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -368 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -368-20% | 1,535 | OH |
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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #21), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 89.1%. They are close on health (#35 and #33); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 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).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- 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: Ohio #11, Kansas #21. Health: Ohio #35, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Kansas, or from Kansas to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 804 people (±540) moving from Ohio to Kansas and 1,202 (±773) 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 | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,917 (+133%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +52,917+133% | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +57,639 (+134%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +57,639+134% | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,722 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -4,722 | KS |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +0.4 | OH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,529 (+4%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$2,529+4% | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,921 (+15%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$9,921+15% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +1.0#26 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +1.2 | OH |
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, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio is the better fit for families; Kansas is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #21score 67.5 | #26score 64.2 | -5 places | OH |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #29score 59.9 | #31score 59.6 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +18 places | #36score 46.5 | #18score 55.7 | +18 places | KS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +7 places | #36score 46.4 | #29score 52.1 | +7 places | KS |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #33score 49.7 | #27score 53.7 | +6 places | KS |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +12 places | #37score 32.6 | #25score 45.2 | +12 places | KS |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #26)
- RetireesEven (#29 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersKansas (#18 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsKansas (#29 vs #36)
- Small BusinessKansas (#27 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKansas (#25 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Kansas?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Columbus and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% 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 Ohio and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -55 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -55 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -33.0 (-80%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -33.0-80% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap +0.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 17.16% | OH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$700 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$700+31% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | OH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio 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).
Ohio vs Kansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 19 of 51, Kansas on 16, and 16 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | KansasKS | GapOH−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +8,923,290 (+300%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +8,923,290+300% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,302 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,302-4% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | KS |
| Population growthGap -0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | -0.06 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,666 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$2,666-4% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -182 (-40%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -182-40% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -368 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -368-20% | 1,535 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$800 (0%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$8000% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$317 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$317+26% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$3,324 (-4%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$3,324-4% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.7 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +2.7 pts+3% | 100 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.40¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +2.40¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.96 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$0.96-6% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,195 (+9%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$1,195+9% | $15,633 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.42 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.4 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 6.66% | OH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$700 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$700+31% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | KS |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -55 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -55 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -33.0 (-80%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -33.0-80% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap +0.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 17.16% | OH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,917 (+133%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +52,917+133% | 78,682 | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +57,639 (+134%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +57,639+134% | 78,715 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,722 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | -4,722 | -33 | KS |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +0.4 | +0.4 | OH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,529 (+4%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$2,529+4% | $77,690 | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,921 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$9,921+15% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +1.2 | +1.1 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,826 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$1,826 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,748 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | +$1,748 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$916 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | +$916 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Ohio and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Kansas ranks higher overall
Kansas leads 6 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 4, with 1 even; Ohio is ahead on safety and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 19 and Kansas on 16.
Kansas is cheaper day to day
Kansas's cost of living index is 90.1 against 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $249,603 in Kansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Tax burdens are close
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high 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).
Kansas pays more
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 457 in Kansas.
Moves between the two run about even
804 people moved from Ohio to Kansas and 1,202 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio is the better fit for families
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Kansas #31.
Ohio vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Kansas better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Ohio cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper than Ohio: cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio and Kansas have similar tax burdens: 9.36% vs 9.33% of income in state and local taxes. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Ohio safer than Kansas?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,797 in Kansas. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Kansas?
Typical home values are about the same: $248,803 in Ohio and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $72,212 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income is $75,514 vs $72,212 in Ohio, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Kansas or from Kansas to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 804 people (±540) moving from Ohio to Kansas and 1,202 (±773) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio and Kansas are close for retirees: #29 and #31 of 50 on the retiree index. Ohio has high 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 +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Kansas?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #26 for Kansas. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Ohio?
Yes: Kansas ranks higher than Ohio overall, #27 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 55.1 to 52.1. Kansas leads 6 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 4, including safety and education. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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