Factors that influence moving costs from Seattle to Kansas City
What to know before moving from Seattle to Kansas City
Moving from Seattle 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 Seattle than in Kansas City, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Seattle compares to Kansas City so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Seattle | Kansas City | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,975 | $1,300 |
Average home value | $842,068 | $233,378 |
Average income (per capita) | $77,845 | $64,551 |
Cost of living (single person) | $3,740 | $2,473 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $9,801 | $6,361 |
Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 5.3% |
Sales tax | 10.35% | 8.4% |
State income tax | 0.0% | 4.8% |
- Rent prices in Kansas City are 34% lower than in Seattle, 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 72.3% lower than in Seattle. - Income in Kansas City is 17.1% lower than in Seattle, 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 33.9% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Kansas City is 35.1% lower than in Seattle.
- The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 10.42% higher than in Seattle.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโs sales taxes in Kansas City are 18.84% lower than in Seattle.
- State income taxes in Kansas City are 4.80% higher than in Seattle.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,983.69 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.
How life is different in Seattle vs. Kansas City
Kansas City | Seattle | |
---|---|---|
Population | 508,090 | 737,015 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 8 |
Walkability score | 35 | 74 |
Bike friendliness score | 35 | 71 |
Crime Index | 58.4 | 58.88 |
Safety Index | 42.6 | 49.23 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Kansas City's population is about 31% less than Seattle.
- Kansas City's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
- Kansas City is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 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 Seattle, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
- Kansas City and Seattle have a similar crime rate.
- Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Seattle with a score of 42.6 vs Seattle's 49.23.
- Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Seattle it's good.
Other things to consider for your Seattle 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: Itโs a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโs a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโs license in Missouri, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Missouri doesnโt mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Kansas City without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Kansas City
With your sights set on "KC", these are some of the most popular 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
Now that you've made the move to Missouri, itโs the perfect time to explore Kansas City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Kansas City, such as 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 along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Seattle to Kansas City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Seattle to Kansas City. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Seattle.
When is the cheapest time to move from Seattle to Kansas City?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Seattle 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 Seattle to Kansas City take?
The 1,837-mile journey from Seattle, WA to Kansas City, MO typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Seattle 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.