Kansas City, MO vs Cary, NC: 80 vs 135

$1,186/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 37%

$67,449/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 92%

$227,000 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 131%

$1,205/mo ↓ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 45%

508,233

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $435/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $5,220/year.

Median household income is $61,950/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Cary — common questions

Is Kansas City or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Cary?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $435/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Cary?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $61,950/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and North Carolina?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Cary, NC (2026)

Kansas City

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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