Chicago, IL vs Kansas City, MO: 100 vs 80

$1,380/mo ↑ 16%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 14%

$75,134/yr ↑ 11%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↓ 10%

$315,200 ↑ 39%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 28%

$1,502/mo ↑ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 20%

2,707,648

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $194/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $2,328/year.

Median household income is $7,685/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

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 80 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 $1,186/month — a difference of $194/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Kansas City?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $7,685/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Missouri?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% 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 80 with rent of $1,186/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Chicago

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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