Kansas City, KS vs Downey, CA: 65 vs 169

$1,073/mo ↓ 43%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 76%

$59,183/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 48%

$147,100 ↓ 80%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 395%

$1,054/mo ↓ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 89%

154,776

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, KS and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $819/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $9,828/year.

Median household income is $28,217/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $147,100 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Kansas City has a lower income tax rate, making Kansas City slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Downey — common questions

Is Kansas City or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Downey?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,073/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $819/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Downey?

Median household income is $59,183 in Kansas City and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $28,217/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Kansas and California?

Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $1,073/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, KS vs Downey, CA (2026)

Kansas City

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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