Tempe, AZ vs Kansas City, KS: 120 vs 65

$1,623/mo ↑ 51%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 34%

$77,643/yr ↑ 31%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 24%

$421,900 ↑ 187%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 65%

$1,554/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 32%

186,419

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $550/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $6,600/year.

Median household income is $18,460/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Tempe 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 Tempe and Kansas City?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $550/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Kansas City?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $18,460/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Kansas?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/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: Tempe, AZ vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Tempe

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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