Chicago vs Kansas City: cost of living compared
Kansas City is 25% cheaper than Chicago overall.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Moving from Chicago to Kansas City generally means a significant reduction in overall expenses. The cost of living in Kansas City is substantially lower, driven primarily by much more affordable housing. While many spending categories are cheaper in Kansas City, the difference in housing costs creates the largest gap, making it a considerably more budget-friendly option for many households seeking to stretch their income further.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast between the two metros. Both median home prices and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom apartment are considerably lower in Kansas City. Chicago's housing market is notably more expensive. While specific property taxes and insurance vary, the initial purchase price or monthly rent in Kansas City offers a substantial financial advantage, making homeownership or renting more accessible.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses are generally more favorable in Kansas City. Transportation costs are noticeably lower, and groceries, healthcare, and utilities are also more affordable. Both states have similar income tax structures, so that aspect won't be a major differentiator. Overall, the cost of everyday goods and services, from commuting to medical care, contributes to a more economical lifestyle in Kansas City.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move reveals distinct lifestyle changes. Chicago offers a dense, urban environment with extensive public transit, experiencing cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Kansas City, while a major metro, feels less dense, with a greater reliance on personal vehicles for getting around. It also experiences four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters, and is known for its Midwestern climate.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, Kansas City offers a compelling financial advantage over Chicago. The most substantial savings will likely come from housing, but nearly all categories of spending, from transportation to groceries, are more affordable. This means a household budget will likely stretch much further in Kansas City, allowing for potentially greater savings or a higher quality of life for the same income.
| Measure | Chicago, IL | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 88 |
| Housing index | 97 | 68 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 89 |
| Food index | 105 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 95 |
| Misc index | 108 | 85 |
| Median home price | $318,000 | $238,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 34 min | 25 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Kansas City home with the True Cost Calculator.