Kansas City, MO vs Dayton, OH: 80 vs 50

$1,186/mo ↑ 37%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 27%

$67,449/yr ↑ 55%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 36%

$227,000 ↑ 144%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 59%

$1,205/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 31%

508,233

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $320/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $3,840/year.

Median household income is $23,995/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Dayton — common questions

Is Kansas City or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Dayton?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $320/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Dayton?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $23,995/year higher in Kansas City.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and Ohio?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Kansas City

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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