Cost of Living: Olathe, KS vs Allentown, PA (2026)

Olathe

Kansas
104
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Olathe is 32% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,314/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↓ 3%
$112,232/yr ↑ 110%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 52%
$340,600 ↑ 80%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 45%
$1,662/mo ↑ 34%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↓ 25%
143,720
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

5.7%
Income Tax
3.07%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.41%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

14.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Olathe, KS and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $58,829/year higher in Olathe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Olathe is $340,600 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Allentown slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Olathe vs Allentown — common questions

Is Olathe or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 104 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Olathe and Allentown?
Median rent in Olathe is $1,314/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Olathe or Allentown?
Median household income is $112,232 in Olathe and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $58,829/year higher in Olathe.
How do taxes compare between Kansas and Pennsylvania?
Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Olathe or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Olathe has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,314/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Olathe details → View Allentown details →

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