Denver, CO vs Kansas City, MO: 147 vs 80

$1,770/mo ↑ 49%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 33%

$91,681/yr ↑ 36%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↓ 26%

$586,700 ↑ 158%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 61%

$1,839/mo ↑ 53%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 34%

713,734

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $584/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $7,008/year.

Median household income is $24,232/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Denver slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Denver 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 147 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Denver and Kansas City?

Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $584/month.

Which city has higher income, Denver or Kansas City?

Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $24,232/year higher in Denver.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and Missouri?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Denver or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/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: Denver, CO vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Denver

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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