A Kansas economy survey released on October 26, 2026, found that fewer residents rated the state economy highly than in 2025, while more believed it was getting worse. Respondents also ranked grocery, housing and energy costs among their leading public affairs concerns.
Key Takeaways
- The share rating the Kansas economy excellent or very good fell to 20.4% from 27.7% in 2025.
- Nearly half of respondents said the state economy was getting worse, while 63.5% said the same of the national economy.
- Grocery, housing and energy costs were each ranked among the top five issues by more than 80% of respondents.
Kansas economy survey shows weaker ratings
Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute of Public Affairs surveyed an online panel of 603 Kansas residents aged 18 and older for its annual Kansas Speaks survey.
Some 48.6% said the Kansas economy was getting worse, up from 36.1% in 2025. Respondents rated the national economy less favorably: 13.1% described it as excellent or very good, compared with 20.4% for the state economy.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Grocery costs | 89.5% ranked them among their top five issues |
| Housing costs | 86.7% ranked them among their top five issues |
| Energy costs, including gasoline and diesel | 82% ranked them among their top five issues |
Living costs dominate respondents’ priorities
Asked to select their top five issues from a list of 13 public affairs topics, respondents frequently chose the cost of groceries, housing and energy. The energy category included gasoline and diesel.
Views on benefits and data centers
The survey also found that 68% supported expanding Medicaid in Kansas, close to the 70% typical of previous years. Another 69% supported providing paid family and medical leave for all employees in the state.
Among nine potential concerns about data centers, energy usage, water usage and the artificial intelligence made possible by the facilities were the three most prominent, said Docking Institute Director and report co-author Brett Zollinger.
Read More News
Disclaimer
This FinanceVelix article provides general information, not personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Market prices, interest rates and economic conditions can change; investments carry a risk of loss. Facts reflect the material available when published and may change. Check important information independently and consult a qualified professional when needed. Mentioning an asset, company, or service is not an endorsement.
Comments
Be respectful. No spam, impersonation or private credentials. Ordinary posts and comments appear immediately; suspicious links are held for review.
Please wait…