Phoenix, AZ vs Kansas City, MO: 109 vs 80

$1,458/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 19%

$77,041/yr ↑ 14%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↓ 12%

$381,900 ↑ 68%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 41%

$1,430/mo ↑ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 16%

1,624,832

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $272/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $3,264/year.

Median household income is $9,592/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Phoenix or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Kansas City?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $272/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Kansas City?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $9,592/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Missouri?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Phoenix

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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