Moving from Milwaukee to Kansas City (2026)

Kansas City has a COL index of 83 vs 89 for Milwaukee (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$343/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8983
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,350$1,050
per month
State tax
7.7%5.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,259$4,384
per month

Salary needed in Kansas City to match your Milwaukee lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MilwaukeeEquivalent in Kansas City
$40K$37,303
$50K$46,629
$60K$55,955
$75K$69,944
$80K$74,607
$100K$93,258
$120K$111,910
$150K$139,888

Monthly budget at $75K — Milwaukee vs Kansas City

ExpenseMilwaukeeKansas City
Monthly take-home$4,259$4,384
1BR rent$1,350$1,050
Groceries$372$357
Transport$72$55
Utilities$168$162
Internet$63$58
Left after essentials$2,234$2,702

Frequently asked questions

Is Kansas City cheaper than Milwaukee?

Yes. Kansas City has a cost of living index of 83 vs 89 for Milwaukee (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Milwaukee to Kansas City?

On a $75K salary, moving from Milwaukee to Kansas City could save roughly $343/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,116/year.

What salary do I need in Kansas City to match my Milwaukee lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Milwaukee, you'd need roughly $69,944/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