Best overall value
Factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Kansas City
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Kansas City
Moving from Washington DC to Kansas City means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Kansas City, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Washington DC compares to Kansas City so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Washington DC | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,400 | $1,300 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $233,378 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $64,551 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,963 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,093 | $6,361 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.3% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.4% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.8% |
- Rent prices in Kansas City are 46% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Kansas City.
Home prices in Kansas City are 60.7% lower than in Washington DC. - Income in Kansas City is 36.5% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Kansas City include Public School System, Federal Government, and State/County/City Government.
- The cost of living for a single person in Kansas City is 37.6% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Kansas City is 42.7% lower than in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 24.29% lower than in Washington DC.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโs sales taxes in Kansas City are 40.00% higher than in Washington DC.
- One perk of moving to Kansas City is paying less in state income taxes, which are 16.52% lower than in Washington DC.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,872.07 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Kansas City
| Kansas City | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 508,090 | 705,749 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 70 |
| Crime Index | 58.4 | 60.37 |
| Safety Index | 42.6 | 39.63 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Kansas City's population is about 28% less than Washington DC.
- Kansas City's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
- Kansas City is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Kansas City has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
- Kansas City and Washington DC have a similar crime rate.
- Kansas City and Washington DC are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Washington DC it's good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Kansas City move
- Weather: Kansas City is in an area of the country with a lot of storms, very hot summers, and very cold winters. Therefore, there's chance that your move will be affected by the weather. Check the forecast ahead of time to plan accordingly. Remember, moves often require spending many hours outdoors.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Missouri moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Missouri doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Kansas City. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Kansas City
Ready to relocate to "KC"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Kansas City.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- River Market
- Union Hill
- Volker
- West Plaza
- West Waldo
Best neighborhoods for families
- Armour Hills
- Brookside
- Sunset Hill
- Volker
- Waldo
Things to do in Kansas City
After getting comfortable in your new Missouri home, itโs time to see what Kansas City is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ thereโs plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Kansas City include museums and art centers like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and Union Station.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Kansas City Royals (MLB), Sporting Kansas City (MLS), or Sporting Kansas City II (MLS Next Pro) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Kansas City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Washington DC to Kansas City. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Kansas City?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Washington DC to Kansas City, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Kansas City take?
The 1,053-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Kansas City, MO typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Kansas City.
