Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Kansas City is 21% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $59,110 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 · New Hampshire salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Kansas City has a housing index of 80 while Manchester sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Kansas City costs $220,000 compared to $350,000 in Manchester, a difference of $130,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Kansas City versus $1,600 in Manchester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Kansas City scores 97 while Manchester scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Kansas City (96) are lower than Manchester (112).
Median household income in Kansas City is $57,478 compared to $65,018 in Manchester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Kansas City.
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