Houston, TX vs Kansas City, MO: 88 vs 80

$1,313/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 10%

$62,894/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↑ 7%

$253,400 ↑ 12%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 10%

$1,316/mo ↑ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 8%

2,300,419

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $127/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $1,524/year.

Median household income is $4,555/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Houston 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 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Kansas City?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $127/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Kansas City?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $4,555/year higher in Kansas City.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Missouri?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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: Houston, TX vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Houston

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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