Creative & Education Kansas (KS) Rank #45 of 50

College Professor Salary in Kansas

The median college professor salary in Kansas is $72,976 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $83,880.

Median Salary
$72,976
vs National
$-10,904
State Rank
#45 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

College Professor Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)

Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for college professor compensation. College Professor salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $72,976 per year, college professors in Kansas earn $10,904 less than the national median of $83,880.

A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $72,976 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,880 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kansas is significant: college professors at the 10th percentile earn $39,150, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $146,160 — a $107,010 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $80,525.

Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for college professors across the country.

College Professor Salary in Kansas by Experience

In Kansas, an entry-level college professor earns around $41,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $139,200 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,760
$-6,240 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$74,820
$-11,180 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$139,200
$-20,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Kansas

Percentile KS Salary
10th Percentile $39,150
25th Percentile $52,200
Median (50th) $72,976
75th Percentile $104,400
90th Percentile $146,160

College Professor Salary by City in Kansas

The largest employment areas for college professors in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a College Professor in Kansas

Education

Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Kansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

TeachingResearchPublishingCurriculum DesignAcademic AdvisingGrant Writing

Job Outlook in Kansas

Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Kansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows College Professors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $66,224 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: College Professor Salary in Kansas

How much does a College Professor make in Kansas? ▼
The median college professor salary in Kansas is $72,976 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $83,880. Salaries range from $39,150 (10th percentile) to $146,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a College Professor make per hour in Kansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $72,976, a college professor in Kansas earns approximately $35 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kansas a good state for college professors? ▼
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for college professor pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level college professors earn $41,760, while senior professionals earn $139,200.
How does Kansas compare to other states for college professor salary? ▼
The highest paying state for college professors is Hawaii at $142,596. Kansas's median of $72,976 ranks #45 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Dakota ($73,814) and Alabama ($72,976).
What is the entry-level college professor salary in Kansas? ▼
An entry-level college professor in Kansas earns approximately $41,760 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $74,820. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $139,200.
What city in Kansas pays college professors the most? ▼
Overland Park is the highest paying city in Kansas for college professors, with a median salary of $80,525. Other cities include Wichita and Kansas City.