Is Kansas City or Chicago more affordable?
Kansas City has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Kansas City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Kansas City, MO vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Kansas City and Chicago.
4
Kansas City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
MO
Kansas City
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
508,090
Population
2,742,119
$57,542
Median Income
+14.3%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+9.9%$1,209
$230,000✓
Median Home Price
+20.7%$277,600
23%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.70%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
214 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
39"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City is a city in Missouri with a population of 508,090.
Read full Kansas City guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Kansas City vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Kansas City or Chicago?
Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Kansas City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Kansas City and Chicago?
Kansas City gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Kansas City: 65°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Kansas City or Chicago?
Kansas City. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.