Modesto, CA vs Kansas City, KS: 120 vs 65

$1,609/mo ↑ 50%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 33%

$77,899/yr ↑ 32%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 24%

$415,600 ↑ 183%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 65%

$1,613/mo ↑ 53%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 35%

218,614

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $536/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $6,432/year.

Median household income is $18,716/year higher in Modesto. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 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

Modesto vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Modesto 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 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Kansas City?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $536/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Kansas City?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $18,716/year higher in Modesto.

How do taxes compare between California and Kansas?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Modesto or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/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: Modesto, CA vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Modesto

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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