Portland, OR vs Kansas City, MO: 138 vs 80

$1,596/mo ↑ 35%

Median Rent

$1,186/mo ↓ 26%

$88,792/yr ↑ 32%

Median Income

$67,449/yr ↓ 24%

$557,600 ↑ 146%

Home Value

$227,000 ↓ 59%

$1,771/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,205/mo ↓ 32%

642,715

Population

508,233

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Kansas City, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $410/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $4,920/year.

Median household income is $21,343/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $227,000 in Kansas City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Portland 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 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Portland and Kansas City?

Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Kansas City it's $1,186/month — a difference of $410/month.

Which city has higher income, Portland or Kansas City?

Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $67,449 in Kansas City. Median household income is $21,343/year higher in Portland.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and Missouri?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Portland or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/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: Portland, OR vs Kansas City, MO (2026)

Portland

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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