Kansas City, MO vs Madison, WI: 80 vs 103

$1,186/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,364/mo ↑ 15%

$67,449/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$76,983/yr ↑ 14%

$227,000 ↓ 35%

Home Value

$346,900 ↑ 53%

$1,205/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,476/mo ↑ 22%

508,233

Population

275,568

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Madison, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $178/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $2,136/year.

Median household income is $9,534/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $346,900 in Madison.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Madison — common questions

Is Kansas City or Madison cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Madison?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Madison it's $1,364/month — a difference of $178/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Madison?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $76,983 in Madison. Median household income is $9,534/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and Wisconsin?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Madison?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Madison has a cost index of 103 with rent of $1,364/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Madison, WI (2026)

Kansas City

Madison

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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