Kansas City vs Minneapolis: cost of living compared
Minneapolis is 23% more expensive than Kansas City overall. State income tax tops out around 4.95% in MO vs 7.05% in MN.
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, the cost of living is noticeably higher in Minneapolis compared to Kansas City. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly more affordable in Kansas City. While other categories like transportation, food, and healthcare also show Kansas City as the more budget-friendly option, the housing disparity creates the most substantial impact on the total cost of living between these two Midwestern metros.
Housing
Housing costs present a considerable difference, with both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents being substantially lower in Kansas City. Minneapolis's housing market is notably more expensive for both buyers and renters. Kansas City offers a mix of historic and newer housing styles, while Minneapolis features a dense urban core alongside established neighborhoods, often with a higher price point for similar properties.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary, with Kansas City generally offering lower costs across the board for transportation, groceries, healthcare, and utilities. State income tax is also lower in Missouri, contributing to a more favorable financial outlook for residents in Kansas City. These combined factors mean that everyday spending for necessities and discretionary items will typically be more economical in Kansas City.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Both metros experience distinct four-season climates, though Minneapolis is known for its colder, longer winters and more extensive public transit options. Kansas City has a more moderate climate with hot summers and a car-centric transportation network, though it also has a growing public transit system. Minneapolis often feels denser and more urban, while Kansas City offers a blend of urban amenities with a more spread-out feel.
Bottom line
Moving between these metros means a significant shift in household budget. Kansas City offers a more affordable lifestyle, primarily due to its considerably lower housing costs and generally reduced expenses for everyday necessities. Minneapolis, while offering a higher cost of living, provides a different urban experience with its own set of amenities. A move to Kansas City would likely free up more disposable income for most households.
| Measure | Kansas City, MO | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 108 |
| Housing index | 68 | 94 |
| Transportation index | 89 | 98 |
| Food index | 90 | 102 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 105 |
| Utilities index | 95 | 108 |
| Misc index | 85 | 98 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $328,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,450/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 Minneapolis home with the True Cost Calculator.