Kansas City, MO vs St. Louis, MO: 80 vs 66

$1,186/mo ↑ 21%

Median Rent

$978/mo ↓ 18%

$67,449/yr ↑ 22%

Median Income

$55,279/yr ↓ 18%

$227,000 ↑ 23%

Home Value

$185,100 ↓ 18%

$1,205/mo ↑ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,013/mo ↓ 16%

508,233

Population

293,109

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and St. Louis, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $208/month cheaper in St. Louis, saving renters about $2,496/year.

Median household income is $12,170/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $185,100 in St. Louis.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs St. Louis — common questions

Is Kansas City or St. Louis cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, St. Louis is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and St. Louis?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in St. Louis it's $978/month — a difference of $208/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or St. Louis?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $55,279 in St. Louis. Median household income is $12,170/year higher in Kansas City.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and Missouri?

Both cities are in Missouri and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or St. Louis?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while St. Louis has a cost index of 66 with rent of $978/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs St. Louis, MO (2026)

Kansas City

St. Louis

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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