Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Kansas City

Missouri
80
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Kansas City is 11% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,186/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 4%
$67,449/yr ↑ 3%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 3%
$227,000 ↓ 30%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 44%
$1,205/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ≈ Same
508,233
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
0%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

21.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,704/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Spokane — common questions

Is Kansas City or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Spokane?
Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Spokane?
Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $1,704/year higher in Kansas City.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Washington?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Kansas City or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Kansas City details → View Spokane details →

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