Kansas City, MO vs Durham, NC: 80 vs 105

$1,186/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,412/mo ↑ 19%

$67,449/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$79,234/yr ↑ 17%

$227,000 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$355,300 ↑ 57%

$1,205/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,434/mo ↑ 19%

508,233

Population

288,465

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Durham, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $226/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $2,712/year.

Median household income is $11,785/year higher in Durham. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $355,300 in Durham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Durham — common questions

Is Kansas City or Durham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Durham?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Durham it's $1,412/month — a difference of $226/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Durham?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $79,234 in Durham. Median household income is $11,785/year higher in Durham.

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 Durham?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Durham has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,412/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Kansas City

Durham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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