Austin, TX vs Kansas City, MO: 134 vs 80

$1,655/mo ↑ 40%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 28%

$91,461/yr ↑ 36%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↓ 26%

$512,700 ↑ 126%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 56%

$1,747/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 31%

967,862

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $469/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $5,628/year.

Median household income is $24,012/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Austin residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Austin or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 134 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Austin and Kansas City?

Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $469/month.

Which city has higher income, Austin or Kansas City?

Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $24,012/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Missouri?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Austin or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,186/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Austin

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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