Kansas City, MO vs Worcester, MA: 80 vs 104

$1,186/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,415/mo ↑ 19%

$67,449/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$67,544/yr ≈ Same

$227,000 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$339,500 ↑ 50%

$1,205/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,521/mo ↑ 26%

508,233

Population

205,501

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kansas City, MO and Worcester, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $229/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $2,748/year.

Median household income is $95/year higher in Worcester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kansas City is $227,000 compared to $339,500 in Worcester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City vs Worcester — common questions

Is Kansas City or Worcester cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 104 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kansas City and Worcester?

Median rent in Kansas City is $1,186/month and in Worcester it's $1,415/month — a difference of $229/month.

Which city has higher income, Kansas City or Worcester?

Median household income is $67,449 in Kansas City and $67,544 in Worcester. Median household income is $95/year higher in Worcester.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and Massachusetts?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Kansas City or Worcester?

It depends on your priorities. Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,186/mo, while Worcester has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,415/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kansas City, MO vs Worcester, MA (2026)

Kansas City

Worcester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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