Topeka, KS
Population 126,103 · Kansas
About Topeka, KS
Topeka is a major city located in Kansas with a population of 126,103 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,902 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Topeka features a median home value of $130,600, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Topeka one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $947, 19% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 59,971 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (32,122 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (22,181 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Topeka shows an unemployment rate of 4.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 15.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Topeka have an average one-way commute time of 16.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
29.1% of Topeka residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 14.4% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 5.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Topeka Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Topeka, KS
Compared to national averages, Topeka has a median household income of $55,902 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $130,600, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $947 is 19% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Topeka's income is 13% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 15% above the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Topeka, KS?
Topeka offers affordable housing with a median home value of $130,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $947/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,902) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Topeka provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Topeka has a population of 126,103 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Topeka with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Topeka
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olathe | 143,720 | $112,232 | $340,600 | Compare |
| Kansas City | 154,776 | $59,183 | $147,100 | Compare |
| Lawrence | 95,459 | $62,838 | $269,500 | Compare |
| Shawnee | 68,175 | $106,312 | $332,900 | Compare |
| Lenexa | 57,986 | $102,344 | $368,800 | Compare |
| Overland Park | 197,199 | $103,838 | $384,400 | Compare |
| Manhattan | 53,951 | $58,441 | $243,700 | Compare |
| Salina | 46,432 | $60,624 | $164,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Topeka With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Topeka
What is the population of Topeka, KS?
The population of Topeka, KS is 126,103 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Topeka?
The median household income in Topeka, KS is $55,902 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Topeka?
The median home value in Topeka, KS is $130,600, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Topeka?
The median monthly rent in Topeka, KS is $947, which is 19% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Topeka?
The unemployment rate in Topeka, KS is 4.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Topeka, KS a good place to live?
Topeka offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 126,103 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Topeka, KS?
29.1% of residents in Topeka aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Topeka?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Topeka, KS: median home value is $130,600 (47% below national), median rent is $947/month, and median household income is $55,902. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Topeka?
The poverty rate in Topeka, KS is 15.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Topeka, KS?
Topeka's population is 14.4% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 9.3% two or more races. 5.3% of residents are foreign-born.