Hays, KS, United States
📊 Scores
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.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(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
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
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
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Work Room | $150 | Located 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 Hays | $200 | Regus 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. |
🧳 Expat Life
Could living/working in Hays, KS cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $239/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.