Madison, WI vs Kansas City, KS: 103 vs 65

$1,364/mo ↑ 27%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 21%

$76,983/yr ↑ 30%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 23%

$346,900 ↑ 136%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 58%

$1,476/mo ↑ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 29%

275,568

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $291/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $3,492/year.

Median household income is $17,800/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 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

Madison vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Madison 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 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Kansas City?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $291/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Kansas City?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $17,800/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Kansas?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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: Madison, WI vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Madison

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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