10 Largest Cities in Kansas [2024]

Kansas, also known as The Sunflower State, is From bustling cityscapes to charming college towns, each Kansas city boasts its own unique character and charm. Whether you're a young professional seeking an energetic urban environment or a family prioritizing a peaceful suburban haven, Kansas has a place for you.

This blog dives deep into the ten biggest cities in Kansas, providing renters with essential information to make informed decisions. We'll explore the rental market in each city, highlighting average rent prices and current listings (to be added by you!). But rent isn't everything! We'll also delve into the vibe of each city, exploring its access to public transportation, green spaces, and overall sense of community.

So, buckle up and get ready to explore the exciting world of renting in Kansas! With its affordable living, friendly atmosphere, and diverse cityscapes, Kansas may just surprise you with its perfect place to call home.

All of the rental data included here comes from current listings on our website, which are linked in the descriptions of each city. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

Largest Cities in Kansas

Populations of the 10 Largest Cities in Kansas

1. Wichita

• Population: 396,119
• Average one-bedroom rent: $847
• Number of currently available units: 204
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 20
• Bike score: 44

Wichita boasts the title of Kansas' largest city, but it maintains a surprisingly affordable cost of living. Renters here will find a wider range of apartments and houses compared to other cities on this list, with one-bedrooms averaging around $847. The city offers a good mix of urban excitement and suburban tranquility, with a growing cultural scene and a strong focus on family-friendly activities.

Getting around and finding your fit: Wichita has a well-developed public transportation system, Wichita Transit (WichitaT), with bus routes servicing most areas of the city. While a car is helpful for reaching more suburban neighborhoods, renters who prefer a walkable lifestyle will find a few areas with good options, particularly downtown.

2. Overland Park

• Population: 197,089
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,415
• Number of currently available units: 115
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 16
• Bike score: 46

Overland Park offers a suburban haven bordering the bustling Kansas City, Missouri. This city caters to renters seeking a quieter environment with convenient access to big-city amenities.

Overland Park prioritizes green spaces, boasting numerous parks and trails like the scenic 7-mile long Indian Creek Greenway. Nature enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a picnic outdoors. The well-established suburban layout makes car ownership ideal for navigating the area, but residents also enjoy a strong sense of community with highly-rated schools and plenty of family-friendly activities.

3. Kansas City

• Population: 152,933
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,289
• Number of currently available units: 362
• Walk score: 32
• Transit score: 19
• Bike score: 28

Kansas City, which many would call the heart of Kansas, pulsates with energy and cultural vibrancy. Renters seeking a dynamic urban experience will find a diverse range of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character, and at a slightly lower cost of living than places like Overland Park. From the historic charm of the Country Club Plaza to the trendy bars and restaurants of Westport, there's a place to suit every taste.

With a growing job market and a thriving arts scene, Kansas City offers an abundance of opportunities for young professionals and families alike. While the cost of living is slightly higher than some surrounding areas, renters are rewarded with a wealth of amenities and a constantly evolving cityscape.

4. Olathe

• Population: 147,461
• Average one-bedroom rent:
• Number of currently available units:
• Walk score: 30
• Transit score: 10
• Bike score: 50

Olathe strikes a balance between suburban comfort and urban convenience. Families will find a strong sense of community here, with excellent schools and plenty of parks and recreation opportunities. Olathe offers a mix of residential areas, from established neighborhoods to new developments, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.

The city prioritizes green spaces, with stunning public gardens like the Mahaffie Farmstead showcasing local history and agriculture. While a car is helpful for navigating the suburbs, Olathe also boasts a growing network of bike lanes and walking paths, encouraging a more active lifestyle.

5. Topeka

• Population: 125,475
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,491
• Number of currently available units: 146
• Walk score: 37
• Transit score: 23
• Bike score: 54

Topeka, the capital city of Kansas, offers a unique blend of history, government, and culture. Apartment hunters here will find a variety of housing options, from historic apartments downtown to modern units closer to the suburbs.

You'll find a slightly higher cost of living compared to some other Kansas cities like Wichita, but it's still affordable compared to other major U.S. cities. Beyond its role as the state capital, Topeka offers a thriving arts scene with museums, theaters, and a vibrant local music community. Though car ownership is recommended for navigating the sprawl of the city, Topeka also features a public bus system connecting major areas.

6. Lawrence

• Population: 96,207
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,026
• Number of currently available units: 54
• Walk score: 41
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 61

Nestled in Douglas County, Lawrence is a vibrant college town brimming with youthful energy and cultural charm. Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence attracts renters seeking an active and engaged atmosphere. The city boasts a lower cost of living than the state average, with a good selection of apartments and houses catering to students and young professionals.

Beyond the energetic college scene, Lawrence offers a thriving downtown area filled with local shops, restaurants, and farmers markets. The city prioritizes green spaces with scenic parks like Clinton Lake perfect for outdoor recreation. While a car is helpful for reaching all corners of Lawrence, the city also features a well-developed public bus system, making car ownership optional for some renters.

7. Shawnee

• Population: 69,417
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,407
• Number of currently available units: 126
• Walk score:
• Transit score:
• Bike score:

Shawnee offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the Kansas City metro area. Renters seeking a family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community will find Shawnee appealing. The city boasts a variety of housing options, from established neighborhoods with spacious yards to newer developments with modern amenities.

With parks like Shawnee Mission Park offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. While car ownership is ideal for navigating the suburbs, the city also features a well-maintained trail system perfect for biking, walking, or jogging.

8. Lenexa

• Population: 58,536
• Average one-bedroom rent:
• Number of currently available units:
• Walk score: 24
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 33

Lenexa provides a suburban haven directly bordering Kansas City, Missouri. This vibrant city caters to renters seeking a balance between peaceful living and easy access to big-city excitement. Lenexa features scenic parks like the Nerman Station Park Arboretum with its stunning gardens and walking trails. Nature enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, while the well-established suburban layout makes car ownership ideal for navigating the area. Lenexa also offers highly-rated schools and plenty of family-oriented activities, making it an attractive option for renters seeking a comfortable and enriching suburban lifestyle.

9. Manhattan

• Population: 53,682
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,444
• Number of currently available units: 165
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 54

Manhattan, home to Kansas State University, offers a dynamic college town atmosphere with a surprising twist. Renters here will find a mix of student-oriented apartments and more established neighborhoods, catering to a diverse range of residents. While the city boasts a lower cost of living compared to some other Kansas cities, it also offers a vibrant arts scene with museums, theaters, and a strong live music community that extends beyond the university crowd.

Nearby Tuttle Creek State Park nearby, perfect for hiking, biking, or enjoying water activities on the reservoir. Although a car is recommended for navigating the city, Manhattan features a public bus system connecting major areas, making car ownership optional for some renters.

10. Salina

• Population: 45,792
• Starting one-bedroom rent: $900
• Number of currently available units: 4
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 45

Salina offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for renters. This small city strikes a balance between urban amenities and small-town charm, with a lower cost of living compared to some other Kansas cities. Beyond its affordability, Salina offers a surprising cultural scene with museums, a vibrant art community, and historical sites that showcase the city's rich heritage. Car ownership is helpful for navigating the area.

Need Help Finding an Apartment in Kansas?

Kansas's largest cities may not be quite as big as some other states, but they have something to offer every renter. Whether you prioritize affordability, outdoor adventure, access to culture, or a vibrant community atmosphere, there's a big Idaho city waiting to welcome you.

Ready to find your perfect Kansas apartment? Head over to our matching tool so you can narrow down your options and find an apartment in Kansas that ticks all your boxes. Happy hunting!

FAQs about the Largest Cities in Kansas

Where do most people live in Kansas?

While Kansas has some larger cities, most people in Kansas actually live in smaller towns and rural areas.

Here's a breakdown:

• Kansas has a relatively low population density compared to other states.
• The majority of the land area is dedicated to agriculture.
• Even the larger cities in Kansas, aside from the Kansas City metropolitan area, have populations that wouldn't be considered large by national standards.
• Although this blog focuses on the top ten biggest cities, it's important to acknowledge that a significant portion of the Kansas population lives outside of these urban centers.