Living in Lawrence, KS
Explore Things To Do, Cost of Living and Quality of Life Details
Why You’ll Love Living in Lawrence, Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas, is the epitome of a college town (let’s go, Jayhawks!). The University of Kansas – the city’s largest employer – is a hub of activity that trickles into the city and adds to the robust economy. Major industries include education, health care and technology. Situated along the Kansas River, the city is home to 50 parks, and an effort is underway to make it more bike-friendly – happy news for the university’s nearly 24,000 students. Arts and entertainment thrive in Lawrence; Massachusetts Street is the center of the action, with shops, restaurants and galleries.
Thinking of moving to Lawrence, Kansas? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Lawrence, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Lawrence, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Lawrence, KS, a Best Place to Live in 2024-2025
When you think about an educational hot spot, Lawrence, KS, definitely comes to mind. This northeastern Kansas city of nearly 97,000 is home to the University of Kansas and its 28,000 students, as well as Haskell Indian Nations University, the premier tribal school in the U.S., noted for its culturally diverse student population. That educational excellence starts with the K-12 public school system, which has won national acclaim for its innovative programming. As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Lawrence also ranks highly for its flourishing economy with several high-paying job sectors, including health care, education, manufacturing and retail.
Lawrence’s housing market has everyone covered with affordable dwellings, including a choice of family homes, apartments and condos, with a median housing cost of about $298,000.
The University’s presence radiates to the greater community, whether it be an art exhibit, live music, local shops, tasty eateries or sporting events. The community certainly cheers on the KU men’s basketball team (Go Jayhawks!) when they play at Allen Fieldhouse, but the university supports 16 different NCAA sports with affordable tickets for locals. If you prefer the great outdoors, Lawrence abides with more than 50 parks and bike-friendly routes. And it’s easy to get around in Lawrence, but Kansas City is only about 40 miles away if you want to venture out.
Lawrence, KS Quality of Life LivScore
Lawrence, KS Top Categories
Education
Health
Transportation
Lawrence ranks highest for education, health and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Lawrence, KS
It doesn’t get super snowy in Lawrence, but the city does experience strong, biting winds. Expect long, hot summer days and pleasant but rainy transitions in spring and fall. The average highs and lows are 89°F and 69°F (summer) and 43°F and 24°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Lawrence is 12 inches per year, and January is typically the snowiest month.
The average annual rainfall in Lawrence is 39 inches.
Lawrence averages 214 sunny days a year.
The city is working on completing a 22-mile loop around Lawrence with bike and walking trails. Any or all of the Lawrence Loop is a great way to get to know the city. In addition, the Baker University Wetlands are a great place to spot wildlife and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Things To Do in Lawrence, KS
Step back in time by about 60 million years at the nationally recognized KU Natural History Museum. Four floors of exhibits focus on Earth’s biodiversity, including a 45-foot-long Mosasaur sea reptile that once swam in Kansas. There are also Final Friday art walks, Buskerfest, and parades, including Art Tougeau and the Lawrence Christmas Parade.
Lawrence Arts Center hosts several family-friendly performances, workshops and exhibitions that are suitable for children of all ages. For those more interested in the outdoors, Clinton State Park, South Park and Rock Chalk Park are favorites among the locals.
Lawrence has high expectations. The city’s official seal features a phoenix rising from the ashes, and its motto is “From ashes to immortality.”
In a city that prides itself on local art and artisans, the shop at Art Love Collective is a great place to find a wide array of locally crafted items all in one spot.
The laidback Free State Brewing Company on Massachusetts Street is a favorite among locals, serving up everything from quesadillas and gumbo to craft cocktails and vegetarian entrees.
The Granada, which seats up to 900, is a historic venue on Massachusetts Street known for hosting local and touring artists across all genres.
In a rock-and-roll pinball mood? Then the crew should definitely head to Replay Lounge for drinks and live music. Feeling a little more zen? Sip craft cocktails and sample Tuscan cuisine at 715.
The Local and State Economy in Lawrence, KS
Lawrence has a diverse economy. Major industries include education, health care and technology. Some of the major employers are the University of Kansas, LMH Health and Hallmark Cards.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Lawrence is 9.3%.
Yes, Kansas has a state income tax.
LMH Health is Lawrence’s most prominent health care provider and has served the community for more than 100 years. It is a regional medical center that provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cancer treatment and women’s health services.
Several colleges and universities are located in Lawrence, including the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University.
Weather in Lawrence, KS
Average Temperatures
65 high / 44 low
Average Annual Rainfall
39 in
Average Annual Snowfall
12 in
Quick Facts about Lawrence, Kansas
- Median Home Value
- $251,333
- Median Property Tax
- $2,463
- Total Population
- 97,114
- Average Commute
- 16 min
- Median Household Income
- $61,006
- Median Monthly Rent
- $829
Map of Lawrence, KS
Experiences & Adventures in Lawrence, KS
Things to Do in Lawrence, KS
Lawrence offers lots of fun for the whole family, including amazing outdoor experiences, arts and culture for days and pizza that will rock your world.
Lawrence, KS: Where to Live Now
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Lawrence Shout Outs
Data used on Livability.com is provided from the most recent release (November 2025) by Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS). Our LivScore is calculated in partnership with AGS. Sales tax sources: Sales Tax Clearinghouse, Tax Foundation, and State Revenue Departments. Local rates are population-weighted to account for municipal variations.
