2026 Kansas City Housing Guide
What Salary Do You Need to Buy a Home in Kansas City?
The definitive 2026 affordability guide with data-backed answers, income calculations, and smart strategies for KC homebuyers.
Quick Answer
To buy a $350,000 home in Kansas City, most homebuyers need an annual salary of $85,000 to $95,000, depending on down payment, debt, interest rates, and property taxes.
Buying a home in Kansas City is still more affordable than many metro areas, but prices have shifted. If you're wondering what salary you need to comfortably buy a home in Kansas City in 2026, here is the simple, data-backed answer.
We will break down the income required, what affects affordability, and how to plan a smart purchase no matter where you are searching across Kansas City neighborhoods.
Why $350,000 Is the New KC Sweet Spot
A $350,000 home represents the middle of the market for many Kansas City neighborhoods, hitting that balance of affordability, updated condition, and strong resale value.
Homes in this range appeal to:
Breaking Down the Salary Needed
Monthly Mortgage Payment (6.75% to 7% rate)
The 28/36 Rule Lenders Use
Most lenders want your housing payment to be below:
At a $2,800 monthly payment:
Required Gross Annual Income: $85,000 to $110,000
Down Payment Scenarios
| Down Payment | Monthly Payment | Needed Income |
|---|---|---|
| 3% FHA | ~$2,950 | ~$105,000 |
| 5% Conventional | ~$2,875 | ~$100,000 |
| 10% Conventional | ~$2,800 | ~$90,000 |
| 20% Conventional | ~$2,550 | ~$82,000 |
Even small shifts in down payment significantly change your buying power.
How Property Taxes Affect Affordability
Kansas City has moderate property taxes, but they vary across counties and neighborhoods.
This is one of the biggest reasons buyers choose an experienced agent, especially the best realtor in Kansas City neighborhoods, who understands where affordability and value align.
What Salary Do Most KC Buyers Make?
Based on MLS and lender data from 2025 and 2026, the typical buyer purchasing a $325,000 to $375,000 home earns:
This range includes:
- ✔ Married couples combining incomes
- ✔ Relocation buyers moving from higher-cost markets
- ✔ KC professionals in healthcare, tech, sales, engineering, and public service
Is Kansas City Still Affordable in 2026?
This market remains one of the best options for affordability because:
- ✔ Median prices are lower than the national median
- ✔ Property taxes are manageable
- ✔ Cost of living is below the national average
- ✔ Strong job growth supports stable demand
KC still gives buyers a lot of home for their money.
3 Ways to Lower the Salary Needed
Even if you are not making $90,000 today, you may still qualify.
Use a 3% or 5% down payment program
First-time buyers use these every day.
Reduce debt before applying
Lower debt raises your allowable mortgage payment.
Work with a lender offering local incentives
Kansas and Missouri both offer grants for qualifying buyers.
The Bottom Line
To buy a $350,000 home in Kansas City, the typical buyer needs $85,000 to $95,000 in income, depending on down payment, debts, and loan type. With the right strategy, many buyers qualify with less.
Kansas City remains an excellent market for affordability, strong resale value, and stable long-term growth, especially when you know how to navigate today's numbers.
Want Expert Guidance on Your
KC Home Search?
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