Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Kansas City is 40% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $45,000 in Kansas City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Missouri salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Kansas City has a housing index of 80 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Kansas City costs $220,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $480,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Kansas City versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Kansas City scores 97 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Kansas City (96) are lower than Long Beach (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Kansas City is $57,478 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Kansas City.
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