Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
27% cheaper
Kansas City is 27% more affordable than Sacramento. A $75,000 salary in Sacramento is equivalent to $54,492 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 Sacramento sits at 163 (national average = 100). The median home in Kansas City costs $220,000 compared to $450,000 in Sacramento, a difference of $230,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Kansas City versus $1,700 in Sacramento.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Kansas City scores 97 while Sacramento scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Kansas City (96) are lower than Sacramento (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Kansas City is $57,478 compared to $64,660 in Sacramento. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Kansas City.
Amazon affiliate links