Seattle, WA vs Kansas City, KS: 196 vs 65

$1,998/mo ↑ 86%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 46%

$121,984/yr ↑ 106%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 51%

$912,100 ↑ 520%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 84%

$2,220/mo ↑ 111%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 53%

741,440

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $925/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $11,100/year.

Median household income is $62,801/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Kansas City's 5.7% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Seattle 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 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Kansas City?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $925/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Kansas City?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $62,801/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Kansas?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Seattle

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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