Factors that influence moving costs from Buffalo to Kansas Citytoggle

The cost of Buffalo movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Buffalo to Kansas City might cost as little as $1,236, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,174.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Buffalo, 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 $820 to $1,844. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Buffalo to Kansas City

Moving from Buffalo 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 Buffalo than in Kansas City, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Buffalo compares to Kansas City so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Buffalo Kansas City
Average rent cost $1,200 $1,300
Average home value $213,418 $233,378
Average income (per capita) $63,443 $64,551
Cost of living (single person) $2,589 $2,473
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,720 $6,361
Unemployment rate 9.5% 5.3%
Sales tax 8.75% 8.4%
State income tax 10.9% 4.8%
  • Rent prices in Kansas City are 8% higher than in Buffalo, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Buffalo.
    Home prices in Kansas City are 9.4% higher than in Buffalo.
  • Income in Kansas City is 1.7% higher than in Buffalo, so you could earn more 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 4.5% lower than in Buffalo. 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 11.2% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 44.21% lower than in Buffalo.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Kansas City are 4.00% lower than in Buffalo.
  • One perk of moving to Kansas City is paying less in state income taxes, which are 55.96% lower than in Buffalo.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,865.59 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Buffalo.

How life is different in Buffalo vs. Kansas City

Kansas City Buffalo
Population 508,090 278,349
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 7
Walkability score 35 67
Bike friendliness score 35 63
Crime Index 58.4 8.0
Safety Index 42.6 53.55
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Kansas City's population is about 83% greater than Buffalo.
  • Kansas City's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Buffalo's higher score of 7.
  • Kansas City is less walkable than Buffalo with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Buffalo's 67 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 Buffalo, which has a score of 63 out of 100.
  • Kansas City's crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 58.4 compared to Buffalo's 8.0. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Buffalo with a score of 42.6 vs Buffalo's 53.55.
  • Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Buffalo it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Buffalo 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Missouri moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Missouri, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toKansas City Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Kansas City

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "KC" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Kansas City to check out.

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 Buffalo to Kansas City?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Buffalo to Kansas City?

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

The 980-mile journey from Buffalo, NY to Kansas City, MO typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Buffalo 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