Kansas City vs Nashville: cost of living compared
Nashville is 23% more expensive than Kansas City overall. Nashville (TN) 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
Comparing the overall cost of living, Kansas City is noticeably more affordable than Nashville. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly lower in Kansas City. While other spending categories also show Kansas City to be more budget-friendly, the gap in housing costs creates the most substantial impact on a household's total expenses when choosing between these two metros.
Housing
Housing costs present a significant contrast. Both buying a home and renting an apartment are considerably more expensive in Nashville compared to Kansas City. Kansas City offers a broader range of housing options at lower price points, from historic neighborhoods to newer developments. Nashville's housing market, while also diverse, reflects higher demand and a more rapid appreciation, leading to elevated prices for both ownership and rental properties.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary between the two cities. Nashville has no state income tax, which can be a notable advantage for residents. However, transportation, food, healthcare, and utility costs are all more expensive in Nashville. Kansas City offers more budget-friendly options across these categories, making everyday spending generally lower. The commute times are roughly similar, but the cost of getting around is higher in Nashville.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros offers distinct lifestyle changes. Kansas City experiences four distinct seasons, including colder winters and warmer summers, and is known for its Midwestern pace. Nashville, with its Southern charm, has milder winters and hot, humid summers. Both cities offer cultural attractions and a growing urban core, but Nashville's rapid growth contributes to a slightly longer average commute and a more bustling atmosphere.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a lower cost of living, Kansas City presents a clear advantage, primarily due to its much more affordable housing market. While Nashville offers the benefit of no state income tax, this is generally outweighed by higher expenses across most other categories, including housing, transportation, and daily necessities. A household's budget will stretch considerably further in Kansas City, making it a more economical choice overall.
| Measure | Kansas City, MO | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 108 |
| Housing index | 68 | 119 |
| Transportation index | 89 | 104 |
| Food index | 90 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 95 | 98 |
| Misc index | 85 | 95 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $438,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 25 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Nashville home with the True Cost Calculator.