Cleveland vs Kansas City: cost of living compared
Kansas City is 7% more expensive than Cleveland overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 4.95% in MO.
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
When comparing the overall cost of living, Cleveland presents a noticeably more affordable option than Kansas City. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly lower in Cleveland. While other categories like food and healthcare are quite similar between the two metros, the substantial gap in housing costs makes Cleveland the more budget-friendly choice for many considering a move.
Housing
Housing costs show a considerable difference, with both median home prices and rental rates being notably lower in Cleveland compared to Kansas City. This means a home purchase or a rental apartment will generally demand a smaller portion of your budget in Cleveland. Prospective homeowners should also factor in local property taxes and insurance, which can vary, but the initial purchase price or monthly rent is a key differentiator.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for groceries and healthcare are roughly similar in both metros. Transportation costs are slightly lower in Kansas City, while utility expenses are a bit higher there. A notable difference is state income tax, with Missouri's top marginal rate being higher than Ohio's. This could impact take-home pay, making daily spending power slightly different despite similar costs for many goods and services.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Both metros experience four distinct seasons, though Cleveland, situated near a Great Lake, can have more pronounced winter weather. Commute times are quite comparable, indicating similar traffic patterns for daily travel. Each city offers a distinct urban character, with a mix of established neighborhoods and developing areas. The general pace of life and urban density are relatively similar, providing a comfortable transition between the two.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a lower overall cost of living, Cleveland generally offers a more economical choice, primarily due to its significantly more affordable housing market. While some daily expenses and transportation costs are quite similar or slightly favor Kansas City, the substantial savings on housing in Cleveland can lead to a much bigger impact on a household budget. State income tax differences also play a role in overall financial planning.
| Measure | Cleveland, OH | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 82 | 88 |
| Housing index | 57 | 68 |
| Transportation index | 91 | 89 |
| Food index | 90 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 95 |
| Misc index | 82 | 85 |
| Median home price | $188,000 | $238,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $950/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 26 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.