We are also being killed by taxes here in Nebraska.
I dont recommend Nebraska, the winters are horrid and the taxes are a killer.
In Missouri and Arkansas, (I have done quite a bit of research) properties that would cost $300,000 here are about half the cost there.
Also taxes in Nebraska are in the top ten for the nation. Its unreal for the midwest. I dont know about taxes in Kansas, but I do know property values are equivalent of here.
We have a home valued at $135,000 and the taxes on it are over $3500 a year.
My Uncle lives in Arkansas, has a $200,000 home and pays $450 a year.
Keep trying to convince dh to move southward, winters are a killer here, but he is a bit scared with the job situation. Also if you go south enuff...Southern Missouri, Arkansas, you have those deadly winding roads..if you are retired and dont have to work, not so bad..but travelling them every day to work gets a tad scary if it snows. Well even if it doesnt snow!
But its gorgeous country, and folks are friendly.
I have been eyeballing real estate in southern Missouri/northern Arkansas, you can find 5 to 10 acres newer over 1600 sq ft home and with electrical in the outbuildings, for 150k sometimes with a pond or a stream running thru it.
Sure cant find that here....
Also taxes for property are super cheap. People are losing their homes here just on property taxes.