Cost of Living: Topeka, KS vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Topeka

Kansas
58
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Topeka is 21% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$947/mo ↓ 6%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↑ 6%
$55,902/yr ↑ 15%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 13%
$130,600 ↓ 45%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 81%
$930/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↑ 12%
126,103
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.7%
Income Tax
5.0%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.41%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

20.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Topeka, KS and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $58/month cheaper in Topeka, saving renters about $696/year.

Median household income is $7,366/year higher in Topeka. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Topeka is $130,600 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Tuscaloosa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Topeka vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Topeka or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Topeka is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Topeka and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Topeka is $947/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $58/month.
Which city has higher income, Topeka or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $55,902 in Topeka and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $7,366/year higher in Topeka.
How do taxes compare between Kansas and Alabama?
Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Topeka or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Topeka has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $947/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Topeka details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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