Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
16% cheaper
Wichita is 16% more affordable than St. Paul. A $75,000 salary in St. Paul is equivalent to $63,000 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Minnesota salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. St. Paul has a housing index of 98 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in St. Paul costs $260,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $95,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in St. Paul versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: St. Paul scores 103 while Wichita scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in St. Paul (105) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in St. Paul is $57,718 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
Amazon affiliate links