If you’re considering a move to Kansas City, you might be wondering which side of the state line offers a more affordable cost of living. Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas are neighboring cities with their own unique charms and advantages. In this article, we’ll compare the cost of living between the two cities, taking into account various factors such as housing costs, expenses, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas City, Kansas generally has a lower cost of living compared to Kansas City, Missouri.
- The median home cost in Kansas City, Kansas is 26% cheaper than in Kansas City, Missouri.
- Food and grocery costs are 3% less in Kansas City, Kansas.
- Consider individual factors such as job opportunities and personal preferences when deciding which city to live in.
- Both cities offer a range of attractions and places to visit.
Cost of Living Indexes
The cost of living indexes provide a detailed comparison between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas, helping individuals make informed decisions when considering where to live. These indexes offer valuable insights into the affordability of various expenses in each city, giving a clear picture of the overall cost of living.
When comparing the cost of living indexes between Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri, it is evident that Kansas City, Kansas offers a more affordable lifestyle. With a cost of living index of 82.8, Kansas City, Kansas is 5.8% less expensive than Kansas City, Missouri, which has a cost of living index of 87.9.
Let’s dive into the specific cost of living indexes for different categories:
Food and Groceries
In terms of food and groceries, Kansas City, Kansas triumphs over Kansas City, Missouri with a cost of living index that is 3.0% less. This means that residents in Kansas City, Kansas can enjoy slightly lower prices when purchasing their daily essentials.
Housing (Homeowner)
One of the most significant factors contributing to the cost of living difference between the two cities is housing. Kansas City, Kansas proves to be much more affordable, with a cost of living index for housing (homeowner) that is 30.8% less compared to Kansas City, Missouri.
Utilities
When it comes to utilities, Kansas City, Kansas offers a cost of living index that is 1.1% less than Kansas City, Missouri. This means that residents in Kansas City, Kansas can enjoy slightly lower expenses when it comes to utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Miscellaneous Costs
For other miscellaneous costs, Kansas City, Kansas proves to be more budget-friendly. With a cost of living index that is 0.8% less, residents in Kansas City, Kansas can expect slightly lower expenses for personal care items, entertainment, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Transportation
Interestingly, transportation costs are slightly higher in Kansas City, Kansas compared to Kansas City, Missouri. The cost of living index for transportation in Kansas City, Kansas is 91.2, while in Kansas City, Missouri, it is 88.7. This means that transportation expenses, such as fuel, public transportation, and vehicle maintenance, may be slightly higher for residents in Kansas City, Kansas.
Overall, the cost of living indexes highlight the affordability and economic advantages of living in Kansas City, Kansas compared to Kansas City, Missouri. The indexes consistently show that Kansas City, Kansas offers lower costs for food and groceries, housing (homeowner), utilities, and miscellaneous expenses. However, it is essential to consider individual circumstances and factors such as job opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and access to amenities when making a decision about where to live.
| Cost of Living Category | Kansas City, Kansas | Kansas City, Missouri |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living Index | 82.8 | 87.9 |
| Food and Groceries | 3.0% less | – |
| Housing (Homeowner) | 30.8% less | – |
| Utilities | 1.1% less | – |
| Miscellaneous Costs | 0.8% less | – |
| Transportation | – | 1.1% more |
Salary Comparison
When comparing salaries in Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas, there is a slight difference. While a salary of $93,000 is common in Kansas City, Missouri, it may decrease to $87,604 in Kansas City, Kansas. However, it’s important to consider that this comparison assumes certain factors such as being a homeowner, not having child care expenses, and not considering taxes. Individual circumstances and specific factors can greatly impact the actual salary comparison.
A comprehensive understanding of the salary differences between the two cities requires an evaluation of various aspects such as job opportunities, industry-specific pay scales, and cost of living adjustments. Factors such as local demand for certain professions, years of experience, and educational qualifications can also influence salary discrepancies.
Factors Influencing Salary Comparison
- Housing Costs: The lower housing costs in Kansas City, Kansas might offset the lower salaries in some cases.
- Job Market: Industries that thrive in one city may offer higher salaries, attracting skilled professionals.
- Cost of Living: The overall cost of living, including expenses such as transportation, utilities, and healthcare, can contribute to salary differences.
It’s crucial to consider the full spectrum of factors when comparing salaries between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas. Salary alone may not provide an accurate reflection of one’s standard of living. Expenses such as housing, transportation, and healthcare costs should be taken into account to make a well-informed decision.
While salary is an important factor when choosing a city to work and live in, it shouldn’t be the sole consideration. Other factors, such as quality of life, access to amenities, cultural opportunities, and personal preferences, also play a significant role in the decision-making process.
When comparing salaries in Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the various factors that contribute to the differences. While salary might be one piece of the puzzle, it is essential to take into account the cost of living, job market, and other factors before making a decision.
Cost of Food
The cost of food in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri is relatively similar. Both cities offer residents access to a variety of grocery stores and dining options. When it comes to the cost of groceries, Kansas City, Kansas has a slight advantage, being 3.0% less expensive compared to the national average. Similarly, Kansas City, Missouri also offers affordability, with grocery costs being 3.2% below the national average.
Residents of both cities can expect to pay similar prices for food and groceries, making it easier to manage their monthly expenses. Whether you’re shopping for fresh produce, pantry staples, or dining out at local restaurants, both Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri offer competitive prices.
Having access to affordable food options allows residents of both cities to enjoy a high standard of living without stretching their budgets. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a busy professional, or a family looking to make ends meet, Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri provide an inviting environment with reasonable food expenses.
| Kansas City, Kansas | Kansas City, Missouri | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Groceries | 3.0% less than national average | 3.2% less than national average |
As seen in the table above, both cities offer grocery costs below the national average. This demonstrates that the cost of food in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri is comparable and affordable for residents.
Housing Costs
When it comes to housing costs, Kansas City, Kansas offers a significant advantage over Kansas City, Missouri. The median home cost in Kansas City, Kansas is $163,900, which is $58,200 (26.2%) less than the median home cost in Kansas City, Missouri, which stands at $222,100. This substantial difference in housing costs plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost of living disparity between the two cities.
With such a discrepancy in housing prices, residents of Kansas City, Kansas can enjoy more affordable homeownership options compared to their counterparts in Kansas City, Missouri. The lower median home cost translates to potential savings for Kansas City, Kansas residents, enabling them to allocate their funds for other aspects of their lives, such as education, retirement, or leisure activities.
This disparity in housing costs is primarily influenced by various factors, including regional economic conditions, supply and demand dynamics, and local government policies. While both cities offer unique living experiences and opportunities, the affordability of housing in Kansas City, Kansas makes it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking more favorable housing costs and a higher quality of life.
Health Care Costs
When it comes to health care costs, the comparison between Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri reveals relatively equal expenses. Both cities have a health care cost index close to 100, indicating a similar level of affordability. However, it is worth mentioning that Kansas generally has slightly lower health care costs compared to Missouri, reflecting a slight advantage in terms of affordability.
For instance, average health insurance costs per person in Kansas are 1.1% lower compared to Missouri. This small difference can contribute to overall savings for individuals and families seeking quality health care within the Kansas City metropolitan area.
In the context of health care costs, residents of both Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri can expect relatively comparable expenses, thus ensuring accessibility to vital medical services and treatments without significant financial burden.
| Health Care Cost Metrics | Kansas City, Kansas | Kansas City, Missouri |
|---|---|---|
| Health Care Cost Index | Close to 100 | Close to 100 |
| Average Health Insurance Costs per Person | Slightly lower, approximately 1.1% less compared to Missouri | Comparatively higher compared to Kansas |
Sports and Entertainment
When it comes to sports and entertainment, Missouri holds the advantage in Kansas City. The state is home to four major league sports teams, providing a vibrant sports culture and a wide range of entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. Here are the major league teams based in Missouri:
- Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- Kansas City Royals (MLB)
- St. Louis Blues (NHL)
- St. Louis City SC (MLS)
On the other hand, Kansas does not boast any major league sports teams in Kansas City. This distinction could be a crucial factor to consider for sports enthusiasts when deciding on which city to reside in.
If you’re a die-hard sports fan, living in Missouri might provide you with more opportunities to cheer for your favorite teams and attend thrilling live sporting events.
Best Sports Bar
If you prefer watching sports surrounded by a lively crowd, you’ll find numerous sports bars in both Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri. One popular sports bar is The Blue Line Sports Bar and Restaurant, located in both cities. Offering a casual atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks, The Blue Line is an ideal spot to catch a game with friends or fellow sports fans.
| Bar Name | Location | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| The Blue Line Sports Bar and Restaurant | Kansas City, KS and Kansas City, MO | 555-1234 |
| Johnny’s Tavern | Kansas City, KS | 555-5678 |
| Charlie Hooper’s Bar and Grille | Kansas City, MO | 555-9876 |
Whether you’re looking to support local teams or enjoy the electrifying atmosphere of live games, Missouri offers a range of sports and entertainment options that might tip the scales in its favor.
Weather Comparison
The weather in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri is very similar. Both cities experience hot summers with average temperatures around 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, Missouri tends to have colder winters, with average temperatures dropping below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to Kansas where the average winter temperatures range from 15-25 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, both cities experience a similar number of severe thunderstorms per year.
If we compare the weather in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri, we can see that while the summers are equally hot, the winters in Missouri tend to be colder. Average temperatures in Missouri drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, whereas in Kansas, they range from 15-25 degrees Fahrenheit. However, both cities experience a similar number of severe thunderstorms per year.
When it comes to weather, Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri have their similarities and differences. While both cities experience hot summers with average temperatures in the range of 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, Missouri tends to have colder winters compared to Kansas. So, if you prefer milder winters, Kansas City, Kansas might be the better choice for you. However, if you don’t mind the colder temperatures, both cities offer a relatively similar weather experience.
Top Places to Visit
Both Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri offer a range of attractions and places to visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a fan of vibrant city life, there’s something for everyone in these two cities. Here are some top places to visit in each location:
Kansas City, Missouri
- St. Louis Gateway Arch: A symbol of the city, this iconic monument offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding area.
- Branson: Known as the country music capital, Branson offers live entertainment, shopping, and outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
- Forest Park: A sprawling urban park, Forest Park is home to the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Science Center.
- Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum: Learn about the life and presidency of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, at this fascinating museum.
Kansas City, Kansas
- Kansas State Capitol: Take a tour of this impressive capitol building and learn about the history and government of Kansas.
- Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Kansas prairie with a visit to this preserve, where you can hike, birdwatch, and experience the tranquility of nature.
- Evel Knievel Museum: Step into the world of the legendary daredevil, Evel Knievel, and see his iconic motorcycles, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.
- Monument Rocks (Chalk Pyramids): Marvel at the stunning natural formations that make up the Monument Rocks, also known as the Chalk Pyramids.
No matter which side of the state line you find yourself on, you’ll have no shortage of interesting places to explore in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
| Kansas City, Missouri | Kansas City, Kansas |
|---|---|
| St. Louis Gateway Arch | Kansas State Capitol |
| Branson | Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve |
| Forest Park | Evel Knievel Museum |
| Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum | Monument Rocks (Chalk Pyramids) |
Both cities boast a unique blend of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for travelers and locals alike.
Conclusion
In the comparison between Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri, it is evident that Kansas City, Kansas offers a more affordable cost of living. With significantly lower median home costs, housing expenses, and costs of food and groceries, Kansas City, Kansas presents a compelling option for those seeking a lower cost of living.
However, it is important to consider individual factors when making the decision between the two cities. Job opportunities, personal preferences, and access to amenities should all be taken into account. Although Kansas City, Kansas may provide financial advantages, Kansas City, Missouri boasts a vibrant sports and entertainment scene, with major league sports teams that attract avid fans.
In the end, the choice between Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri depends on individual circumstances and priorities. While the cost of living comparison favors Kansas City, Kansas, personal factors and preferences play a crucial role in deciding the best fit for each individual or family.
Is it cheaper to live in Kansas City, Missouri or Kansas City, Kansas?
Overall, Kansas City, Kansas tends to be cheaper to live in compared to Kansas City, Missouri.
What factors contribute to the cost of living difference?
The biggest factors are the median home cost, which is 26% cheaper in Kansas City, Kansas, and the cost of food and groceries, which is 3.0% less in Kansas City, Kansas. Housing costs (homeowner) are also significantly lower in Kansas City, Kansas by 30.8%.
How do the cost of living indexes compare between the two cities?
Kansas City, Kansas has a cost of living index of 82.8, while Kansas City, Missouri has a cost of living index of 87.9. This means that Kansas City, Kansas is 5.8% less expensive than Kansas City, Missouri.
How do the salaries compare between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas?
There is a slight difference in salaries. A $93,000 salary in Kansas City, Missouri could decrease to $87,604 in Kansas City, Kansas. However, it’s important to consider individual circumstances and factors that may affect salaries.
How do the costs of food and groceries compare between the two cities?
The cost of food and groceries is relatively similar in both cities, with Kansas City, Kansas being 3.0% less and Kansas City, Missouri being 3.2% less compared to the national average.
Are housing costs significantly different between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas?
Yes, housing costs are significantly lower in Kansas City, Kansas. The median home cost in Kansas City, Kansas is $163,900, which is $58,200 (26.2%) less than in Kansas City, Missouri.
What is the difference in health care costs between the two cities?
The health care costs are relatively equal, with both cities having a health care cost index close to 100. However, on average, Kansas has a slightly lower health care cost compared to Missouri.
Which city offers more sports and entertainment options?
Missouri has an advantage when it comes to sports and entertainment, as it is home to four major league sports teams, while Kansas does not have any major league sports teams in Kansas City.
How does the weather compare between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas?
The weather is very similar in both cities, with hot summers and similar numbers of severe thunderstorms. However, Missouri tends to have colder winters compared to Kansas.
What are the top places to visit in Kansas City, Kansas and Missouri?
In Missouri, popular attractions include the St. Louis Gateway Arch, Branson, Forest Park, and the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. In Kansas, top attractions include the Kansas State Capitol, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Evel Knievel Museum, and Monument Rocks.
What should I consider when deciding between Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas?
Individual factors such as job opportunities, personal preferences, and access to amenities should be considered when deciding between the two cities.