Cary, NC vs Kansas City, KS: 135 vs 65

$1,621/mo ↑ 51%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 34%

$129,399/yr ↑ 119%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 54%

$525,200 ↑ 257%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 72%

$1,744/mo ↑ 65%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 40%

176,686

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $548/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $6,576/year.

Median household income is $70,216/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Cary or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and Kansas City?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $548/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or Kansas City?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $70,216/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Kansas?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/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: Cary, NC vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Cary

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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