Lexington, KY vs Kansas City, KS: 82 vs 65

$1,101/mo ↑ 3%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 3%

$67,631/yr ↑ 14%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 12%

$272,100 ↑ 85%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 46%

$1,160/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 9%

321,122

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,448/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Lexington or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 82 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Kansas City?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $28/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Kansas City?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $8,448/year higher in Lexington.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Kansas?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Kansas City has a cost index of 65 with rent of $1,073/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Lexington

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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