Located in the heart of the Midwest, Kansas has a population of about 2.8 million as of 2006. It’s a highly agrarian state with plenty of rolling farmlands, as well as military bases and large manufacturing facilities. Kansas offers warm weather and a small-town rural atmosphere—perfect for retirees looking for a more relaxed pace of life.
In Kansas, you’ll find hot and humid summers, with frequent thunderstorms and the occasional tornado. There’s plenty to do outdoors in Kansas, with some beautiful parks including the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, the Cimarron National Grassland, and the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
If you’re looking for a place to stretch your retirement dollars, Kansas is the place. Housing is much cheaper here than in the rest of the country, even in the cities. Cost of living in Kansas is considerably lower than in the rest of the US as well. Out-of-state government pensions are fully taxed, but if your pension is from military or civil service or a state or local government, it’s exempt from taxation. Railroad retirement benefits are fully exempt, and Social Security benefits are also exempt for those making less than $75,000 as of 2008.
If you’re interested in Kansas assisted living facilities, here are a few ideas for great locations.
Manhattan
A Big Twelve college town with exceptional cultural and sporting events, Manhattan gets over 250 days per year of sunshine—plenty of time to enjoy the city’s many public golf courses. It’s close to the Konza Prairie Wildlife Preserve, and boasts outstanding healthcare facilities. There are plenty of historical attractions around Manhattan, including the Cavalry Museum and the Custer House. Manhattan is also home to the Kansas State University Wildcats and plenty of sporting events. Kansas State draws many high profile lecturers in its Landon Lecture Series, including presidents, historians, and Nobel Prize winners.
Lawrence
Located in the eastern part of the state that’s greener and more humid than the flat, dry plains found elsewhere, Lawrence is a green city full of leafy neighborhoods. Retirees love it for the beautiful weather, small-town atmosphere, excellent medical care, and convenient public transportation. Lawrence is a college town, home to the University of Kansas and a wealth of cultural, artistic, and sporting events.
Kansas City
If you’re looking for a livelier pace of life, Kansas City senior living may be what you need. The third largest city in Kansas, it sits at the joining of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers and is located partially in Kansas and partially in Missouri. Attractions in this city includes the Legends at Village West shopping complex, sports teams, and the Kansas Speedway.
Overland Park
The second biggest city in Kansas, Overland Park is highly affordable, with reasonable home prices and great medical care. The downtown offers several beautiful gardens, including the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, which stretches for 300 acres. The Oak Park Mall is one of the area’s most varied shopping centers, with over 200 stores. The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, a 12-acre attractions, was listed as the top “family” attraction in the area by the Nickelodeon Channel.
If you’re looking for somewhere to retire, retirement communities in Kansas may be just what you need. Kansas offers a warm climate, relaxed atmosphere, and plenty to do—including outdoor activities, attractions, cultural events, and sporting events. It’s an ideal place for seniors on a limited budget who are looking for affordable housing. Assisted living facilities in Kansas cater to a diverse range of needs. Check out our listings of Kansas senior living communities—and see what Kansas has to offer.
