Texas vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1), carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 27% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $1,659 in Texas).
- Violent crime rate is 25% lower in Texas (345 vs. 457 in Kansas).
- Total tax burden is 17% lower in Texas (7.77% vs. 9.33% in Kansas).
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.9 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | -2.9 pts | — | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | KS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,348 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | +$1,348 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$49,764 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$49,764+20% | $368,697 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.56 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-25%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -112-25% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,207 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$4,207+6% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +59,745 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +59,745 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Kansas better to live in?
Kansas scores higher overall: 55.1 to 52.2 out of 100, #27 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 3 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 5, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -2.1 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 44.6#28 · C+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.1 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 52.7#44 · D | +9.1 pts | TX |
| Health12% of scoregap -8.1 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 45.8#33 · C+ | -8.1 pts | KS |
| Education12% of scoregap -2.5 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 63.2#21 · B | -2.5 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8.7 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 83.1#10 · A | -8.7 pts | KS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +19.8 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 52.4#37 · C | +19.8 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +16.1 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 35.6#28 · C+ | +16.1 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -12 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 55.7#11 · B+ | -12 pts | KS |
| Livability7% of scoregap -2.4 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 26.0#38 · C | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.7 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 30.4#22 · B | -25.7 pts | KS |
| Environment4% of scoregap -7.2 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 48.0#16 · B+ | -7.2 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 Texas cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,348 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | KS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.1 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.1 pts+4% | 100 | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.91¢ (+6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +0.91¢+6% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.61 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$4.61+31% | $15.83/Mcf | KS |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.22 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.22-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,847 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | -$1,847-14% | $15,633 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$630 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | +$630 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,093 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | -$1,093 | KS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$1,348 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | +$1,348 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$775 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | -$775 | 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 | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,555 | $23,045 | $18,490 | +$4,555 | KS |
| ChildcareGap -$3,694 | $21,788 | $25,482 | -$3,694 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap +$336 | $4,661 | $4,325 | +$336 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$462 | $11,049 | $10,587 | +$462 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$692 | $9,051 | $9,743 | -$692 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,314 | $5,551 | $7,865 | -$2,314 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Kansas?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 9.33%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.56 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.58 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -5.58 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.49 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Texas or Kansas?
Homes cost 20% more in Texas: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $79,721 and $75,514.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$49,764 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$49,764+20% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.4 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$454 (+38%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$454+38% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,620 (+18%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$13,620+18% | $100,006 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+15%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.5x+15% | 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.
| TX | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or Kansas?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $75,514, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$4,207 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$4,207+6% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,655 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | +$7,655+13% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.85 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.85 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | TX |
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 Texas safer than Kansas?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,797 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-25%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -112-25% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -11 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -11-1% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Kansas?
Texas and Kansas are close on education (#24 and #21 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 89.1%. Kansas scores higher for health (#33 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.2 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, Kansas #21. Health: Texas #41, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Texas to Kansas, or from Kansas to Texas?
3,876 households moved from Texas to Kansas and 4,667 moved from Kansas to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 791 households for Texas. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,476; movers to Texas reported $68,787. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,355 people (±1,985) moving from Texas to Kansas and 9,920 (±3,535) 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 | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +267,473 (+673%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +267,473+673% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +207,728 (+483%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +207,728+483% | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +59,745 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +59,745 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +2.9 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$18,924 (+29%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$18,924+29% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,172 (+18%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$12,172+18% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +2.3 | TX |
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, Texas or Kansas?
Texas is the better fit for small business; Kansas is the better fit for families, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +9 places | #35score 57.5 | #26score 64.2 | +9 places | KS |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #33score 58.8 | #31score 59.6 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #25score 52 | #18score 55.7 | +7 places | KS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #28score 53 | #29score 52.1 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -12 places | #15score 64.3 | #27score 53.7 | -12 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +20 places | #45score 26.6 | #25score 45.2 | +20 places | KS |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKansas (#26 vs #35)
- RetireesEven (#33 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersKansas (#18 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#28 vs #29)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKansas (#25 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Kansas?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Houston and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% 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 Texas and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -24 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.3 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -17.3-42% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap +1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 17.16% | TX |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +15.4 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +15.4 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$430 (-19%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$430-19% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas 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).
Texas vs Kansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 28 of 51, Kansas on 13, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | KansasKS | GapTX−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +28,732,601 (+965%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +28,732,601+965% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,207 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | +$4,207+6% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.85 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.85 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,655 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | +$7,655+13% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-25%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -112-25% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -11 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -11-1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.2 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$49,764 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$49,764+20% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -5.4 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$454 (+38%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$454+38% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,620 (+18%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | +$13,620+18% | $100,006 | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | KS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+15%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.5x+15% | 4.6x | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.91¢ (+6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | +0.91¢+6% | 17.84¢/kWh | KS |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.61 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$4.61+31% | $15.83/Mcf | KS |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.22 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.22-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.1 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +4.1 pts+4% | 100 | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,847 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | -$1,847-14% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.56 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.58 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -5.58 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.49 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +15.4 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +15.4 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$430 (-19%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$430-19% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | KS |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -24 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.3 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -17.3-42% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap +1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 17.16% | TX |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +267,473 (+673%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +267,473+673% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +207,728 (+483%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +207,728+483% | 78,715 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +59,745 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +59,745 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +2.9 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$18,924 (+29%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$18,924+29% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,172 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$12,172+18% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +2.3 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,348 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | +$1,348 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$630 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | +$630 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$775 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | -$775 | +$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 Texas and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Kansas ranks higher overall
Kansas leads 5 of the 11 categories to Texas's 3, with 3 even; Texas is ahead on fiscal health and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 28 and Kansas on 13.
Kansas is cheaper day to day
Kansas's cost of living index is 90.1 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $249,603 in Kansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Kansas collects 9.33% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Texas pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 457 in Kansas.
Moves between the two run about even
6,355 people moved from Texas to Kansas and 9,920 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kansas is the better fit for families
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Kansas #31.
Texas vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Kansas better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Kansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1), carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than Kansas?
Kansas is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Kansas?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Texas safer than Kansas?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,797 in Kansas. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Kansas?
Homes are 20% more expensive in Texas: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $79,721 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Texas or Kansas?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $75,514 in Kansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from Texas to Kansas or from Kansas to Texas?
3,876 households moved from Texas to Kansas and 4,667 moved from Kansas to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 791 households for Texas. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,476; movers to Texas reported $68,787. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,355 people (±1,985) moving from Texas to Kansas and 9,920 (±3,535) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Kansas?
Texas and Kansas are close for retirees: #33 and #31 of 50 on the retiree index. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Texas or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for families: #26 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Texas?
Yes: Kansas ranks higher than Texas overall, #27 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 55.1 to 52.2. Kansas leads 5 of 11 categories and Texas leads 3, including fiscal health and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Texas vs Kansas.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (4,667 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).