Kansas City, MO vs Pasadena, CA: 80 vs 220

$1,186/mo ↓ 47%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 87%

$67,449/yr ↓ 35%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 54%

$227,000 ↓ 78%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 360%

$1,205/mo ↓ 49%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 94%

508,233

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,032/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $12,384/year.

Median household income is $36,329/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Kansas City or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Pasadena?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $1,032/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Pasadena?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $36,329/year higher in Pasadena.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and California?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Pasadena, CA (2026)

Kansas City

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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