Topeka, KS
Population 126,103 · Kansas
About Topeka, KS
Topeka is a major city in Kansas with a population of 126,103 residents. The median household income is $55,902 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Topeka is 38.2 years.
Housing in Topeka has a median home value of $130,600 and median monthly rent of $947. Of the 59,971 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 32,122 owner-occupied and 22,181 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Topeka is 4.9% and the poverty rate is 15.6%. 29.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.7 minutes.
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 Census data.
What is the median household income in Topeka?
The median household income in Topeka, KS is $55,902 per year.
What is the median home value in Topeka?
The median home value in Topeka, KS is $130,600.
What is the average rent in Topeka?
The median monthly rent in Topeka, KS is $947.
What is the unemployment rate in Topeka?
The unemployment rate in Topeka, KS is 4.9%.