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Hays, KS, United States

Data updated Oct 8, 2026

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📊 Scores

84
FIRE
73
Retiree
74
Digital Nomad

Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 84)

Fort Hays State University anchors the local economy, employing hundreds directly and supporting the broader service sector. Agriculture—wheat, cattle, ranching—remains significant in Ellis County, though it's declining as a primary income source. Healthcare and retail round out employment. Most expats here work remotely; local job opportunities are limited unless you're in education or healthcare. The economy is stable but not dynamic—this is a regional hub for the Great Plains, not a growth market.

Rent runs $598/month for a one-bedroom downtown, making housing genuinely affordable. You'll need a car; public transit is minimal. Healthcare is accessible through HaysMed, the regional hospital. Winter temperatures drop to 25–35°F with occasional ice storms—driving becomes hazardous. Bureaucracy is straightforward by U.S. standards. The main friction: isolation. Nearest major city (Denver, Kansas City) is 4+ hours away. Internet is reliable but not fiber-fast everywhere.

Summers are warm (75–85°F), winters harsh. Food scene is basic—chain restaurants dominate, though a few local spots exist. The expat community is tiny; you're mostly around university staff and retirees. Weekends mean hiking nearby, visiting Fort Hays Historic Site, or driving out. This city suits remote workers seeking ultra-low cost of living and quiet, who don't mind winters and can handle genuine small-town isolation.

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🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$1,376/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle

Hays, KS on a mid-range budget comes to about $1,376 a month for one adult, with $598 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $188 on groceries, $135 on dining out, $78.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $377 on utilities and connectivity.

Rent

$598/mo

1BR outside the centre

Groceries

$188/mo

Staples basket scaled to a full month

Dining out

$135/mo

10 inexpensive meals

Entertainment & lifestyle

$78.00/mo

2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos

Utilities & connectivity

$377/mo

utilities, mobile, internet

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$778/mo

Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.

Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.

A 1BR in the center runs about $790.5/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

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🛡️ Safety & Crime

88
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

12
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Hays is genuinely one of the safest small cities in the United States. With a Numbeo Safety Index of 88, you can walk around downtown and residential neighborhoods at night without significant concern. The city has a quiet, small-town feel where most residents know their neighbors. Violent crime is rare, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming and secure for expats accustomed to American safety standards.

Property crime (petty theft, vehicle break-ins) occurs occasionally but at rates well below national averages. Scams are minimal in a community this size. Solo female travelers and residents report feeling comfortable walking alone during evening hours. The main risks are typical of rural Kansas: occasional property theft in less-monitored areas and the need to lock vehicles. There are no neighborhoods considered genuinely dangerous or off-limits.

Hays has stable local governance, reliable police services, and no significant political instability or corruption concerns. As a college town (Fort Hays State University), it benefits from community policing and youth engagement programs. For an American considering relocation, Hays presents virtually no geopolitical risk. The verdict: this is an excellent choice for remote workers or retirees seeking a safe, affordable, and stable small-city environment with genuine peace of mind.

🏥 Healthcare

Good
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Available

See how Hays, KS's healthcare compares with Chester, CA

🌤️ Climate

Summer Temp
28°C
Winter Temp
-2°C
Humidity
58%
Air Quality Index
45
Annual Rainfall
547 mm

Best Months

AprMaySepOct

Climate Notes

Hays experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers (often exceeding 30°C), cold winters with occasional snow, and dramatic seasonal swings typical of the Great Plains.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
62 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$69/mo
Coworking Availability
Limited
Coworking Spaces Nearby
1
Digital Nomad Score
74/100

Community Notes

A pleasant midwestern city with a strong community feel and essential facilities for remote workers.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
The Work RoomLocated in downtown Hays, The Work Room offers a professional environment with flexible membership options. It's a good option for those seeking a dedicated workspace and networking opportunities within the local business community.
Regus HaysRegus provides a reliable and professional coworking environment with various membership tiers. Located centrally, it offers amenities like meeting rooms and administrative support, making it suitable for remote workers needing a structured workspace.

Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).

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See how Hays, KS's digital nomad life compares with Chester, CA

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
large
Banks Nearby
12
ATMs Nearby
2

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Hays, KS

Areas of Hays, KS that expats often consider.

Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.

Downtown Hays

Historic, walkable, community events

Downtown Hays is the heart of the city, featuring historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. It's a walkable area with a strong sense of community, hosting events and festivals. While convenient, it can be noisier than residential areas and parking can sometimes be a challenge.

Vine Street Corridor

Commercial, convenient, accessible services

Vine Street is the main commercial thoroughfare, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and services. Housing options are primarily apartments and smaller homes. While convenient for amenities, it can be busy and less residential in feel.

North Hays

Residential, family-friendly, established

North Hays is a primarily residential area with a mix of older and newer homes. It's a quieter area, popular with families and long-term residents. While safe and affordable, it's less walkable to downtown and requires a car for most errands.

South Hays

Growing, suburban, modern amenities

South Hays is a rapidly developing area with newer housing developments and retail centers. It offers modern amenities and a suburban feel. While convenient for shopping and dining, it's car-dependent and lacks the historic charm of downtown.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Hays, KS

Click any question to expand the answer.

Hays, KS has a population of approximately 21,116 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $1,976 per month in Hays, KS, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $791/month.
The nearest airport to Hays, KS is HYS, approximately 3.6km away.
Hays, KS is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 88.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Hays, KS has an average internet speed of 62 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Yes, generally. Most of downtown and residential areas have solid broadband through local providers. Speeds vary (50–100 Mbps typical), but fiber isn't universal. Check with Sunflower Broadband or HaysMed's service map before committing.
Current verified data does not include winter temperature information for Hays. The city has an overall score of 84 and a safety index of 88, but climate specifics are unknown.
Minimal. You'll find some university international staff and a handful of remote workers, but no established expat scene or meetups. Social life revolves around university events, churches, and local groups. Expect to build friendships slowly or rely on online communities.
Hays is very affordable. You can rent a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $600-$800 a month. Groceries and dining out are also cheaper than in most major US cities; expect to spend significantly less on everyday expenses.
Hays does not have specific data on expat neighborhoods, but the areas around Fort Hays State University offer rental rates near the city average of $790.5 for a one-bedroom. The downtown area provides walkable access with a walkability score of 45, while the north side is quieter and more residential.
Getting around Hays without a car is challenging due to its low walkability score of 45 and limited public transportation. A car is the most practical option for getting around the city.
Yes, Hays has a regional medical center, Hays Medical Center, with a wide range of specialists. English is the primary language spoken, so you won't have any communication barriers. Healthcare costs are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas.
Several national and local banks operate in Hays, such as Equity Bank and First Kansas Bank. For international transfers, services like Wise or Remitly are often more cost-effective than traditional bank transfers. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.
Hays offers a relaxed and slower pace of life compared to larger cities. It's a friendly community where people take the time to connect. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Hays could be a good fit.
Hays has a decent range of activities, including local festivals, university events, and outdoor recreation opportunities. There are also several restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. While not a major cultural hub, there are enough options to keep you entertained.
Hays is definitely viable for early retirement on $2,500 per month, and you could likely live comfortably on even less. Housing, food, and transportation costs are low, allowing you to stretch your retirement income further. It's a great place to make your passive income go further.
Even though you're living in the US, it's important to understand your US tax obligations. You may still need to file US taxes and report foreign bank accounts (FBAR). The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) doesn't apply since you're in the US, but standard US tax rules do.
While Hays doesn't have dedicated coworking spaces, several coffee shops like Breathe Coffee House offer a comfortable environment for remote work. The public library also provides free internet access and a quiet workspace.
Hays has a relatively stable job market, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and agriculture. Fort Hays State University is a major employer. While salaries may be lower than in larger cities, the lower cost of living can offset this.
English is the primary language spoken in Hays, so you won't encounter any language barriers. You'll find that most people are friendly and welcoming to newcomers.
Climate data for Hays is not available in our current verified data. The city has a safety index of 88, indicating low crime.

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