Durham, NC vs Kansas City, KS: 105 vs 65

$1,412/mo ↑ 32%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 24%

$79,234/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 25%

$355,300 ↑ 142%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 59%

$1,434/mo ↑ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 26%

288,465

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Durham, NC and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $339/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $4,068/year.

Median household income is $20,051/year higher in Durham. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Durham is $355,300 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Durham 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 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Durham and Kansas City?

Median rent in Durham is $1,412/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $339/month.

Which city has higher income, Durham or Kansas City?

Median household income is $79,234 in Durham and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $20,051/year higher in Durham.

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 Durham or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Durham has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,412/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: Durham, NC vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Durham

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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