Joplin, MO vs Wichita, KS: Cost of Living Comparison
Joplin has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Joplin | Wichita | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 68 | 74 | Joplin |
| Housing | 46 ($622) | 52 ($672) | Joplin |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 104 ($3.50) | Tie |
| Food & groceries | 68 ($279) | 84 ($344) | Joplin |
| Utilities | 73 ($83) | 76 ($94) | Joplin |
| Healthcare | 73 ($60) | 76 ($68) | Joplin |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,800) | 99 ($48,010) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Joplin, MO or Wichita, KS cheaper to live in?
Joplin, MO is cheaper overall by about 6 index points (Joplin, MO: 68, Wichita, KS: 74; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Joplin, MO vs Wichita, KS?
A single adult needs roughly $23,800/year in Joplin, MO and $25,900/year in Wichita, KS to cover basic living costs.