The Kansas Health Institute’s research highlights how income, education, and geographic factors contribute to the state’s digital divide. A significant 31% of low-income households (earning less than $20,000) lack high-speed internet, compared to just 4.5% of households earning over $75,000. This broadband gap affects Kansans’ ability to access healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. The research also reveals disparities in computer ownership, with one in 20 households lacking devices and older residents being disproportionately affected.

KHI developed an interactive dashboard to show county-level disparities in broadband access and device ownership, revealing that rural areas face more significant challenges due to infrastructure limitations. Efforts to bridge the digital divide include the federal Affordable Connectivity Program and state investments like the $452 million from the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program. These initiatives aim to improve broadband access, especially in rural areas, fostering economic and educational growth.