Affordable Alternatives to Topeka
Cities ranked by lifestyle match — walkability, job market, and cost of living — not just the cheapest price tag.
COL Index80100 = US avg
1BR Rent$940/mo
Walk Score26/100
State Income Tax5.7%
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More affordable metros
All other established metros cheaper than Topeka, sorted by cost of living.
Topeka at a glance
80
COL index
100 = US avg
$940
1BR rent
per month
$180K
Home price
median
5.7%
State tax
income
Cities with similar cost of living
COL data: Numbeo, Zillow, BLS · Walk scores: Walk Score® · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only