Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
45% cheaper
Wichita is 45% more affordable than Washington. A $75,000 salary in Washington is equivalent to $41,447 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: District of Columbia salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Washington has a housing index of 226 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Washington costs $580,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $415,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Washington versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Washington scores 108 while Wichita scores 95.
Healthcare costs in Washington (105) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in Washington is $90,842 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
Amazon affiliate links