Kansas City vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 8% more expensive than Kansas City overall. Jacksonville (FL) has no state income tax; MO tops out around 4.95%.
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
Overall, Kansas City offers a noticeably lower cost of living compared to Jacksonville. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly more affordable in Kansas City. While both metros are below the national average for overall costs, Jacksonville's expenses are generally higher across most categories, with utilities being a particular standout for higher costs.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference, with both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents being considerably lower in Kansas City. In Jacksonville, potential homeowners should factor in higher property taxes after a sale, elevated homeowners insurance premiums, and the possibility of additional fees for community associations or flood insurance, which can add to the total cost of ownership.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary, with Kansas City generally offering lower costs for transportation, groceries, and healthcare. Utilities, however, are more expensive in Jacksonville. A key financial distinction is Florida's lack of a state income tax, which can offset some higher daily costs for those earning an income, as Missouri has a state income tax.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Kansas City experiences four distinct seasons, including colder winters, while Jacksonville offers a warmer, subtropical climate year-round with hurricane season during summer and fall. Commute times are roughly similar in both metros. Jacksonville's coastal location and Florida's general character offer a different pace and density compared to the Midwest's inland setting.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a lower overall cost of living, Kansas City generally presents a more budget-friendly option, especially concerning housing. However, Jacksonville's absence of a state income tax can provide a financial advantage for some, potentially balancing out its higher housing and utility costs. The decision hinges on weighing these financial trade-offs against climate and lifestyle preferences.
| Measure | Kansas City, MO | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 95 |
| Housing index | 68 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 89 | 96 |
| Food index | 90 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 95 | 105 |
| Misc index | 85 | 88 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 25 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.