Chicago, IL vs Kansas City, KS: 100 vs 65

$1,380/mo ↑ 29%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 22%

$75,134/yr ↑ 27%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 21%

$315,200 ↑ 114%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 53%

$1,502/mo ↑ 43%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 30%

2,707,648

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $307/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $3,684/year.

Median household income is $15,951/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Chicago 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 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Kansas City?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $307/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Kansas City?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $15,951/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Kansas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Chicago

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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