Cost of Living in Kansas City

Missouri · Population: 510,612 · Updated 2026

Below Average
Cost Index
92.5
100 = US avg
Median Income
$69K
Annual household
Median Rent
$1,238/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
21%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing72.8
Groceries100.0
Utilities100.0
Transportation100.0
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$243K
State Income Tax5.3%
Unemployment Rate3.5%
Est. Net Income$66K/yr
Affordability Score
104
out of 100
Below national average cost
Salary Converter for Kansas City

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in Kansas City.

$75,000

About Kansas City

Kansas City is a Midwest gem with world-class barbecue, affordable housing, and a growing tech and creative scene. It sits astride the Missouri-Kansas border, offering access to two different state tax environments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kansas City expensive?

Kansas City has a cost of living index of 92.5, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Kansas City?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $49,520 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in Kansas City and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in Kansas City?

The median 2-bedroom rent in Kansas City is $1,238 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.