salaryKansas City is 11% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Kansas City to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,535
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,400
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$74,596
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$242,900
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
92.5
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$2,671
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$138
👥 People living there
2,711,226
510,612
Commute to work
33.1 min
21.7 min
College degree
44.3%
38.4%
Own their home
46%
55.4%
Below poverty line
16.8%
14.6%
Unemployment
8%
4.4%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce.
- Pick Kansas City for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 3 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Kansas City | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $62,960 | -42% in Kansas City |
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $60,770 | -27% in Kansas City |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $76,150 | -26% in Kansas City |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $76,860 | -25% in Kansas City |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $61,810 | -23% in Kansas City |
| Elementary School Teacher | $78,390 | $61,060 | -22% in Kansas City |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $62,680 | -20% in Kansas City |
| Lawyer | $165,660 | $134,640 | -19% in Kansas City |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Kansas City cheaper to live in?
Kansas City is about 11% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,535 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Kansas City to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $53,599 a year gives the same standard of living in Kansas City.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Kansas City?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $74,596 in Kansas City, 13% more in Chicago.