Is St. Louis or Kansas City more affordable?
St. Louis has a median rent of $950/month, while Kansas City is $1,100/month. St. Louis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
St. Louis, MO vs Kansas City, MO
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between St. Louis and Kansas City.
2
St. Louis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Kansas City wins
MO
St. Louis
vs
MO
Kansas City
Overview
293,310
Population
508,090
$42,000
Median Income
+37.0%$57,542✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.8%$1,100
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+39.4%$230,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
4.70%
State Income Tax
4.70%
8.68%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
205 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
40"
Annual Rainfall
39"
Who should choose
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is a city in Missouri with a population of 293,310.
Read full St. Louis guide →Who should choose
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City is a city in Missouri with a population of 508,090.
Read full Kansas City guide →St. Louis vs Kansas City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — St. Louis or Kansas City?
Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between St. Louis and Kansas City?
St. Louis gets 205 sunny days/year. Kansas City gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in St. Louis: 64°F. Avg high in Kansas City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — St. Louis or Kansas City?
St. Louis. Kansas City. 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.