Kansas City, MO vs Raleigh, NC: 80 vs 110

$1,186/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,468/mo ↑ 24%

$67,449/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$82,424/yr ↑ 22%

$227,000 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$377,800 ↑ 66%

$1,205/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ↑ 23%

508,233

Population

470,763

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Raleigh, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $282/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $3,384/year.

Median household income is $14,975/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $377,800 in Raleigh.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Raleigh — common questions

Is Kansas City or Raleigh cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Raleigh?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Raleigh it's $1,468/month — a difference of $282/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Raleigh?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $82,424 in Raleigh. Median household income is $14,975/year higher in Raleigh.

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 Raleigh?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with rent of $1,468/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Kansas City

Raleigh

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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