Des Moines, IA vs Kansas City, MO: Cost of Living Comparison
Des Moines has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Des Moines | Kansas City | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 81 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 65 ($830) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Kansas City |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 90 ($369) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 83 ($117) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 83 ($85) | Des Moines |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 99 ($47,800) | Kansas City |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Des Moines, IA or Kansas City, MO cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 6 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, Kansas City, MO: 81; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs Kansas City, MO?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $28,350/year in Kansas City, MO to cover basic living costs.