Factors that influence moving costs from Ann Arbor to Kansas Citytoggle

The cost of Ann Arbor movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Ann Arbor to Kansas City might cost as little as $1,504, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,380.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Ann Arbor, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $586 to $1,589. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Kansas City

Moving from Ann Arbor to Kansas City comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Kansas City is generally more expensive than Ann Arbor, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Ann Arbor Kansas City
Average rent cost $2,260 $1,300
Average home value $474,909 $233,378
Average income (per capita) $66,964 $64,551
Cost of living (single person) $2,176 $2,473
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,344 $6,361
Unemployment rate 3.5% 5.3%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.4%
State income tax 4.25% 4.8%
  • Rent prices in Kansas City are 43% lower than in Ann Arbor, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Kansas City.
    Home prices in Kansas City are 50.9% lower than in Ann Arbor.
  • Income in Kansas City is 3.6% lower than in Ann Arbor, 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.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Kansas City, since the cost of living for a single person in Kansas City is 13.6% higher than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Kansas City, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Kansas City is 19.0% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 51.43% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Kansas City are 40.00% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • State income taxes in Kansas City are 12.94% higher than in Ann Arbor.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,409.47 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Kansas City

Kansas City Ann Arbor
Population 508,090 123,851
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 7
Walkability score 35 52
Bike friendliness score 35 71
Crime Index 58.4 31.0
Safety Index 42.6 79.18
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Kansas City's population is about 310% greater than Ann Arbor.
  • Kansas City's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Ann Arbor's higher score of 7.
  • Kansas City is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 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 Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
  • Kansas City's crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 58.4 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
  • Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 42.6 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
  • Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Ann Arbor it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor 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\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s 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. Youโ€™ll 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 settling into your new Missouri home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Kansas City has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Kansas City is home to museums and cultural arts 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 cityโ€™s The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer 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 Ann Arbor to Kansas City?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ann Arbor to Kansas City. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ann Arbor.

When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Kansas City?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor to Kansas City take?

The 721-mile journey from Ann Arbor, MI to Kansas City, MO typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Ann Arbor 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.

Helpful moving resources