Is Topeka, KS a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What Is Topeka, KS Known For?

Topeka, Kansas, is approximately 66 miles from Kansas City, the nearest metro area. The city is best known for its political prominence as Kansas's capital, educational milestones tied to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, and a steady yet diverse job market. The city's historical neighborhoods often draw families and retirees.

Topeka leans moderately conservative. Faith-based communities have a significant presence here, creating a moral backbone for many locals. Regarding race, it's a mix of majority and minority groups, with various places of worship catering to this diversity.

Couples often find the local art scene engaging with periodic downtown art walks. Retirees value the quiet, historical neighborhoods and community centers focused on senior activities. Families benefit from well-structured school systems and multiple parks. Singles and young professionals may find the social scene more subdued but growing. Students, particularly those in politics or social studies, can utilize the city's political atmosphere for practical experience.

Highlights

Pros and Cons icon

Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Topeka, KS, include political engagement, historical landmarks, job market, and more. While some Cons are around social scene, weather extremes, and limited public transportation.
Read more in Pros and Cons.

Safety and Crime icon

Safety and Crime

Topeka, KS is ranked 415th out of the top 500 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 394th on safety from violent crime, and 419th on safety from property crime.
Read more in Safety and Crime.

Cost of Living icon

Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Topeka, KS is 31% lower than the national average.
Read more in Cost of Living.

Discretionary Income icon

Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Topeka, KS leaves $2,369 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
Read more in Discretionary Income.

Climate and Weather icon

Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Topeka, KS in January is 31°F and 79°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average -12°F cooler in January and experiences no difference in temperature in July.
Read more in Climate and Weather.

Politics and Voting icon

Politics and Voting

Topeka, KS voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 50.2% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.

The assessments presented on this website, including those related to crime, safety, cost of living, and other location characteristics (e.g., states, cities, towns, villages, neighborhoods, areas, landmarks), are based on various sources and our internal research methods. These assessments are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be used as the sole basis for making any decisions.