Kansas City, MO vs Tempe, AZ: 80 vs 120

$1,186/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 37%

$67,449/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 15%

$227,000 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 86%

$1,205/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 29%

508,233

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $437/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $5,244/year.

Median household income is $10,194/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Tempe — common questions

Is Kansas City or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Tempe?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $437/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Tempe?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $10,194/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and Arizona?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Kansas City

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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