Kansas City, KS vs Surprise, AZ: 65 vs 126

$1,073/mo ↓ 44%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 79%

$59,183/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 58%

$147,100 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 169%

$1,054/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 51%

154,776

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, KS and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $844/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $10,128/year.

Median household income is $34,188/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $147,100 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Surprise — common questions

Is Kansas City or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Surprise?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,073/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $844/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Surprise?

Median household income is $59,183 in Kansas City and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $34,188/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Kansas and Arizona?

Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $1,073/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, KS vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Kansas City

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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