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Independent Living in Kansas
In Kansas, retirees enjoy a very low cost of living compared to the national average, 18.4% lower overall, giving seniors more financial flexibility than in most states. Lots of sunny days, 212 on average, and only 16 inches of snow per year combine to make Kansas a retirement destination with lots to offer active, independent seniors.
Independent living is a great option for seniors who don’t need regular assistance with activities such as preparing a meal or getting dressed but who may not want to be responsible for major home maintenance tasks or mowing the lawn. Independent living communities average $3,309 per month in Kansas, though prices vary depending on services offered, amenities and location.
In this guide, seniors and their loved ones can explore the cost of retirement and independent living in Kansas and get information about low- and no-cost resources available to senior residents.
Find Independent Living Options Near You
The Cost of Independent Living in Kansas
When trying to decide how to pay for independent living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of independent living in Kansas and its 8 cities.
The Cost of Independent Living in Kansas's Top Cities
Independent living provider prices in Kansas' top cities are relatively similar. Overland Park's and Olathe's prices average $2,342, while prices in the state capital, Topeka, are slightly more expensive at around $2,485. In Wichita, prices are closer to the state norm of $2,586, averaging $2,526. While these price differences are comparatively small on a national scale, it still pays to consider senior living options throughout Kansas.
Kansas
$2,586
Wichita
$2,526
Overland Park
$2,342
Olathe
$2,342
Topeka
$2,485
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Independent Living in Kansas
Inflation has significantly impacted Kansas' independent living prices. From 2022 to 2023, the average monthly cost climbed from $2,020 to $2,586, a massive 28% increase. In contrast, the national average rose by only 5.2%, from $2,810 to $2,955. Furthermore, prices throughout the state are expected to increase by an additional 6.5% in 2024.
The results of inflation on the cost of independent living in bordering states varied. Oklahoma's prices rose by 3.8%, while Colorado's increased by just 1.2%. Somewhat surprisingly, Nebraska's and Missouri's prices actually dropped by 9.1% and 5.6%, respectively.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | $2,020 | $2,586 | $2,755 |
| U.S. Average | $2,810 | $2,955 | $3,162 |
| Nebraska | $3,343 | $3,040 | $3,238 |
| Colorado | $2,769 | $2,802 | $2,984 |
| Oklahoma | $2,284 | $2,370 | $2,667 |
| Missouri | $2,989 | $2,822 | $2,909 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
The amount individuals can expect to pay for senior living in Kansas depends on the types of services required. Independent living is $2,586, making it an affordable choice for largely self-sufficient seniors. Assisted living is almost $2,250 more at $4,834, while memory care is over twice the price at $5,587. The level and specialized nature of care and amenities contribute to the vast price variations between these three senior living types.
Assisted Living
$4,834
Memory Care
$5,587
Independent Living
$2,586
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Kansas?
Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in Kansas.
Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.
Paying for Independent Living in Kansas
Independent living is typically paid for entirely by the resident or their family members. No public programs offer financial assistance with the monthly costs. However, there are ways to get help paying for independent living communities using existing assets. A reverse mortgage is a great way to help with the cost of independent living, particularly in family situations where a child or loved one continues to live in the family home while a senior is moving on to retirement housing.
Long-term care insurance is another possible option. While long-term care insurance won’t usually cover room and board, it may cover some of the a la carte services often offered in independent living communities, including meal preparation and housekeeping.
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Kansas
There are many resources in Kansas that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities | 785-267-1336 | The Kansas Association of Area Agencies on Aging & Disabilities is a statewide network of 11 Aging and Disability Resource Centers. These federally mandated centers are designed to ensure seniors aged 60 and older, as well as adults with disabilities, have access to information on state and federal benefits that can be used toward assisted living costs. Staff at each regional center can also help seniors locate local community-based services, such as home meal delivery programs, accessible transportation services and case management. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Kansas provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Kansas seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Frail Elderly Waiver | 855-200-2372 | The Frail Elderly Waiver is a KanCare waiver administered by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. This waiver provides alternatives to nursing home care, giving seniors critical options. The Frail Elderly Waiver is available to older Kansans who have been determined to require a nursing home level of care but who wish to remain in their own homes, in family homes or in assisted living centers that do not provide skilled nursing care. One of the program's biggest benefits is that recipients have a large degree of self-direction over how the funds are spent. Once a senior is approved for the program, they can choose the level of care they need and how much they want to spend on it. Because Kansas allows individuals to provide personal or attendant care without possessing specific education or experience, seniors can even use the Frail Elderly Waiver funds to hire family or friends to fill such roles. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Kansas seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Food Assistance & Nutrition Program | 888-369-4777 | Kansas Food Assistance & Nutrition Program is a state-sponsored initiative that aims to supply low-income seniors with the means of accessing a healthy, balanced diet. Eligible seniors and their household members must demonstrate financial duress in the form of a household bank balance not exceeding $3,500 ($2,250 for singles). Applications are submitted online, and successful recipients receive a benefits card that can be used at local grocery stores to purchase produce and nonperishable food items. |
| Kansas Food Bank | 316-265-3663 | Kansas Food Bank oversees food pantries in all Kansas counties to support food-insecure seniors. Each food pantry sets eligibility guidelines based on age and income level. The Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which operates in 28 counties, offers balance diet boxes containing well-balanced, nutritional food items for seniors. Additionally, seniors in 26 counties can apply for the Bob Box, named after Senator Bob Dole, through the Kansas Food Bank. These boxes provide seniors with food staples that help them prepare meals. |
| Kansas Meals on Wheels | Kansas Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered meals for seniors throughout the state. Seniors must be 60 years of age or older and be homebound, isolated or unable to receive a meal in a group setting. Homebound seniors' meals are free, but a donation is requested If the senior can afford one. Delivered meals are $4 for non-homebound seniors. Volunteers drop off hot, nutritious meals daily. Additionally, Kansas seniors can visit a local dining center for a meal. | |
| Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 888-369-4777 | The Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, a food assistance service, helps low-income seniors secure nutritious foods. Seniors must meet income requirements to qualify. The guidelines consider resources, such as cash and checking and savings account balances, in addition to income. Seniors ages 60 and up must have $4,250 or less in resources to qualify for the program. Qualifying seniors receive a Kansas benefits card (EBT card) to purchase food at local grocers and some online stores. |
| Meneilly Center | 913-671-2315 | Staffed by over 150 volunteers, the Kansas Village Church Food Pantry provides free food, clothing, personal care items and cleaning products for seniors and others in need. There's no residency requirement for assistance, although program participants must make an appointment in advance. The facility is open from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Kansas collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Equipment Exchange Reuse program | 620-421-8367 | The Kansas Equipment Exchange Reuse program provides high-quality and gently used durable medical equipment to seniors who have medical and financial needs. Inventory list typically features items such as manual and electric wheelchairs, patient lifts, hospital beds, shower chairs, specialty commodes, walkers and more. |
| Medical Equipment Recycling Network | 316-942-6300 | The Medical Equipment Recycling Network provides durable medical equipment to seniors. Program staff then inspects the equipment, ensures it is clean and in top working order, and makes it available to qualifying individuals. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Kansas seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas FamilyWize | 785-827-1312 | United Way Salina works with FamilyWize to provide drug discount cards that offer low-income individuals discounts of up to 75% on their medications. These cards are available to anyone who is on a low income and needs assistance covering the costs of prescription medications. Seniors can use the card to receive discounts on the price of FDA-approved medications that aren't covered by Medicare, Medicaid or other plans. |
Home Repair and Modifications
Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Kansas have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Section 504 Home Repair Program | The Section 504 Home Repair Program provides up to $10,000 in grants or $40,000 in low-interest home repair loans to low-income seniors in rural parts of Kansas. This money can be used to perform home repairs that eliminate health and safety hazards. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Kansas seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Senior Citizen Law Project | 888-353-5337 | Available to all older residents of Kansas, the Senior Citizen Law Project provides free legal advice on a range of pertinent issues. Areas of law include elder neglect and abuse, public benefits and health insurance, medical rights, long-term care and consumer affairs. The organization also assists seniors with life and estate planning matters, such as wills. Seniors aged 60 and older can contact a legal advisor via the statewide Elder Law Hotline. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Kansas bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Health Care Association (KHCA) | 785-267-6003 | Kansas Health Care Association operates the Kansas Center for Assisted Living. Over 260 nonprofit and for-profit assisted living communities are represented by this organization. KHCA deals with many aspects of long-term senior care, including licensure and advocating for better health care. This association sits on SW Gage Boulevard in Topeka and can be reached by phone to inquire about services at (785) 267-6003 or email at khca@khca.org. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Kansas help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Kansas resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Property Tax Relief for Low-Income Seniors Program | 785-368-8222 | The Kansas Property Tax Relief for Low-Income Seniors program provides a property tax refund of 75 percent of the total taxes paid or to be paid during a given year, effectively shrinking the property tax liability of qualifying seniors to one-fourth of their home's actual tax assessment. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Kansas retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) | 800-432-0043 | The Low Income Energy Assistance Program assists low-income Kansans, including seniors, who are facing difficulty paying their energy bills. The program also offers emergency assistance to homeowners who are facing impending electricity shutoff. |
Veteran's Services
Kansas retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas VA Benefits and Health Care | The Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, a food assistance service, helps low-income seniors secure nutritious foods. Seniors must meet income requirements to qualify. The guidelines consider resources, such as cash and checking and savings account balances, in addition to income. Seniors ages 60 and up must have $4,250 or less in resources to qualify for the program. Qualifying seniors receive a Kansas benefits card (EBT card) to purchase food at local grocers and some online stores. |
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