Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kansas City, MO
Thinking of moving to Kansas City, MO? With over 500,000 residents and a median home price around $218,000, Kansas City offers affordable living, quick 22-minute average commutes, and a diverse community. While the crime rate is above the national average, the city features quality schools, major hospitals, and a vibrant arts and food scene. Enjoy four distinct seasons, 55% sunny days, and a cost of living that’s nearly 10% below the U.S. average—making it a practical choice for movers seeking value and opportunity.
Demographics - Kansas City, MO
Demographics - Kansas City, MO
Kansas City is home to over 508,000 residents with a median age of 35, offering a diverse blend of cultures—about 55% White, 28% Black, and a notable 11% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. The city's moderate population density provides a balanced urban environment suitable for families and individuals alike.
Population:
508,394
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.3
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.9%
Black:
27.6%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
14.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kansas City, MO?
Kansas City boasts a cost of living index of 89.6, nearly 10% below the U.S. average, making it an affordable city for newcomers. Median home values are around $218,000 and average rents are about $1,130, while essential expenses such as groceries and utilities remain close to or below national averages.
Median House Value:
$218,000
Gross Rent:
$1,130
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,570
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,480
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.6
Grocery:
96.4
Housing:
71.5
Utilities:
100.2
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
95.8
Crime
Is Kansas City, MO a safe place to live?
Kansas City’s crime rate is higher than the national average, with a 1 in 63 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 20 chance for property crime. Those considering a move should be aware of these statistics and explore the safety of specific neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,590
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,960
Crime Index:
6,550
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 63
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 20
Weather
What is the weather like in Kansas City, MO year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, from cold winters with lows in the mid-20s to warm summers peaking near 90°F. The city enjoys about 55% sunny days and receives over 40 inches of rainfall annually, offering a varied climate suitable for a range of outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Kansas City reflect a median household income of $61,500 and a poverty rate of 15.7%, with nearly 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Average commute times are short at just over 22 minutes, and only a small percentage rely on public transportation.
Median Income:
$36,800
Household Income:
$61,500
Family Income:
$74,600
Per Capita Income:
$35,700
Income Male:
$44,400
Income Female:
$36,700
Poverty Rate:
15.7%
Non English Speakers:
11.3%
Rent:
$1,130
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
36.9%
Education
How are the schools in Kansas City, MO?
Kansas City provides a range of educational opportunities, from top-rated public and private schools to major universities like the University of Missouri-Kansas City. With nearly 90% of adults having completed high school and 37% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, the city supports lifelong learning for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy
Street:
2111 Woodland Ave
Phone:
816-418-3000
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.4
Name:
Park Hill High School
Street:
7701 NW Barry Rd
Phone:
816-359-4100
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1
Private Schools
Name:
Barstow School
Street:
11511 State Line Rd
Phone:
816-942-3255
Students:
700
Colleges
Name:
University of Missouri-Kansas City
City:
Kansas City
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
16,000
Name:
Rockhurst University
City:
Kansas City
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Kansas City offers access to several major hospitals, such as University Health Truman Medical Center and Saint Luke's Hospital, with a high physician availability (2.7 per 1,000 residents) and nearly 89% health insurance coverage. The city provides reliable healthcare services for individuals and families alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
University Health Truman Medical Center
Address:
2301 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Phone:
(816) 404-1000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City
Address:
4401 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Phone:
(816) 932-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.9%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kansas City, MO?
The housing market in Kansas City is accessible, with a median home price of $218,000 and owner-occupied rates just over half of all residences. Rental options are plentiful, with a 7.3% vacancy rate and steady home value appreciation at 3.6% annually.
Median Home Price:
$218,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,130
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver licensing services in Kansas City are managed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, offering convenient access online and at the main office in Jefferson City. New residents can find up-to-date information and resources at the state DMV website.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle & Driver License
Address:
301 West High Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone:
573-526-3669
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.