Lincoln, NE vs Kansas City, KS: 77 vs 65

$1,045/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↑ 3%

$69,991/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 15%

$248,200 ↑ 69%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 41%

$1,140/mo ↑ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 8%

291,932

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $10,808/year higher in Lincoln. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Lincoln 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 77 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Kansas City?

Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $28/month.

Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Kansas City?

Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $10,808/year higher in Lincoln.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Kansas?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Lincoln or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/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: Lincoln, NE vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Lincoln

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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