Kansas City developments drive state's economic activity
What's driving growth
The Kansas City metropolitan area is a primary driver of economic activity, fueled by preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Major projects include the $527 million West Bottoms revitalization and the $1 billion Current Landing riverfront district. The Panasonic EV battery plant in De Soto is also a significant employer, creating 4,000 jobs.
Housing market right now
Kansas home prices were up 7.1% year-over-year in March 2026, with a median price of $258,622 as of February 2026. The market is experiencing tight inventory, with homes selling quickly, averaging 35 days on the market in March 2026. Salina and Leavenworth are among the metros with the fastest-growing sales prices.
Migration patterns
Kansas experienced a modest net population growth from July 2024 to July 2025, with a total population of 2,977,220 residents as of July 1, 2025. The state saw a significant reduction in net domestic migration loss in 2025, with only 519 more people leaving than moving in, an improvement from previous years. Missouri, Colorado, and Texas are the top states from which people are moving to Kansas.
Headwinds
While overall domestic migration improved, some counties, including Montgomery, Kingman, and Shawnee, experienced population declines from 2023 to 2024. Kansas also saw a 52% decline in international immigrants in 2025, consistent with a national trend. The state ranked last in the U.S. for employment growth at -0.7% in a 2026 real estate market study.
Key facts
- Kansas home prices are projected to increase by 6% in 2025. (Wichita State University Center for Real Estate, October 2024)
- The Kansas City metropolitan area grew by approximately 3.4% between July 2020 and July 2025. (U.S. Census Bureau, March 2026)
- The I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct replacement project in Topeka will continue construction through 2027, with I-70 experiencing reduced configurations and a six-month closure in 2026. (Kansas Department of Transportation, March 2026)
- Governor Laura Kelly signed the state's budget for Fiscal Years 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029 in April 2026. (Kansas Office of the Governor, April 2026)
- The Kansas Chamber's 2025 Legislative and Policy Agenda includes priorities to reduce personal and corporate income taxes and adopt legal reform. (Kansas Chamber, January 2026)