Moving from Austin to Kansas City (2026)
Kansas City has a COL index of 91 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 25% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Kansas City to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 25% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Kansas City |
|---|---|
| $40K | $29,836 |
| $50K | $37,295 |
| $60K | $44,754 |
| $75K | $55,943 |
| $80K | $59,672 |
| $100K | $74,590 |
| $120K | $89,508 |
| $150K | $111,885 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Kansas City
| Expense | Austin | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,403 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $372 | $361 |
| Transport | $50 | $70 |
| Utilities | $170 | $165 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,547 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Kansas City cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Kansas City has a cost of living index of 91 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 25% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Kansas City?
On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Kansas City could save roughly $601/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,212/year.
What salary do I need in Kansas City to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $55,943/year in Kansas City. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only