Buffalo, NY vs Kansas City, KS: 61 vs 65

$989/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↑ 8%

$48,050/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↑ 23%

$152,300 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 3%

$929/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↑ 13%

276,397

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $84/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $1,008/year.

Median household income is $11,133/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

Kansas City has a lower income tax rate, making Kansas City slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Buffalo or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 65 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Kansas City?

Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $84/month.

Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Kansas City?

Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $11,133/year higher in Kansas City.

How do taxes compare between New York and Kansas?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Buffalo or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/mo, while Kansas City has a cost index of 65 with rent of $1,073/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Buffalo

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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