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Kansas improved slightly in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings, moving from 28th to 27th among the 50 states, though its overall health standing has declined since ranking eighth in 1991. The report, produced by the United Health Foundation and based on 55 metrics across economic, environmental, clinical, behavioral, and health outcome factors, offers a broad view of well-being.

Strengths for Kansas include low non-medical drug use, high volunteerism (fifth in the nation), and relatively low income inequality, with civic engagement in small towns supporting community health. However, challenges remain, including high obesity and smoking rates, a shortage of mental health providers, poor air quality, elevated asthma in children, and concerns over private well water nitrate levels. Maternal and infant health, along with adverse childhood experiences, are also areas of concern, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Experts say the rankings serve as a guide for communities and policymakers to target improvements. With strong volunteerism, university and extension support, and philanthropic backing, Kansas has the potential to climb higher in future assessments.