Milwaukee, WI vs Kansas City, MO: 67 vs 80

$1,033/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↑ 15%

$51,888/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↑ 30%

$172,000 ↓ 24%

Home Value

$227,000 ↑ 32%

$1,082/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↑ 11%

569,756

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $153/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $1,836/year.

Median household income is $15,561/year higher in Kansas City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Kansas City?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $153/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Kansas City?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $15,561/year higher in Kansas City.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Missouri?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Kansas City has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,186/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Milwaukee

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons