Cost of Living: Olathe, KS vs Topeka, KS (2026)

Olathe

Kansas
104
VS

Topeka

Kansas
58

Olathe is 79% more expensive than Topeka.

$1,314/mo ↑ 39%
Median Rent
$947/mo ↓ 28%
$112,232/yr ↑ 101%
Median Income
$55,902/yr ↓ 50%
$340,600 ↑ 161%
Home Value
$130,600 ↓ 62%
$1,662/mo ↑ 79%
Owner Costs
$930/mo ↓ 44%
143,720
Population
126,103

Tax Comparison

5.7%
Income Tax
5.7%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.41%
Property Tax
1.41%

Affordability

14.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Olathe, KS and Topeka, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $367/month cheaper in Topeka, saving renters about $4,404/year.

Median household income is $56,330/year higher in Olathe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Olathe is $340,600 compared to $130,600 in Topeka.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Kansas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Olathe vs Topeka — common questions

Is Olathe or Topeka cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Topeka is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 104 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Olathe and Topeka?
Median rent in Olathe is $1,314/month and in Topeka it's $947/month — a difference of $367/month.
Which city has higher income, Olathe or Topeka?
Median household income is $112,232 in Olathe and $55,902 in Topeka. Median household income is $56,330/year higher in Olathe.
How do taxes compare between Kansas and Kansas?
Both cities are in Kansas and share the same state tax rates: 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.
Should I move to Olathe or Topeka?
It depends on your priorities. Olathe has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,314/mo, while Topeka has a cost index of 58 with rent of $947/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Olathe details → View Topeka details →

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