Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
Wichita is 24% more affordable than Providence. A $75,000 salary in Providence is equivalent to $57,273 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Rhode Island salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Providence has a housing index of 118 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Providence costs $310,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $145,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Providence versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Providence scores 105 while Wichita scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Providence (112) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in Providence is $47,012 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
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