West Des Moines, Iowa vs. Merriam, Kansas

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Merriam, Kansas is 5.6% more expensive than West Des Moines, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $158,436 in Merriam, Kansas to maintain the standard of living you have in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Merriam, Kansas is more expensive than West Des Moines, Iowa
• Miscellaneous is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Miscellaneous
21% more expensive in Merriam
than in West Des Moines, Iowa
West Des Moines, IA vs. Merriam, KS
Compared to West Des Moines, Merriam is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  5.6% higher
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  1.2% lower
  Housing (Homeowner)
  12.0% lower
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  11.6% higher
  Commute
  16.5% higher
  Health
  1.2% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  21.4% higher