Kansas City vs University City: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Kansas City, MO and University City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kansas City, MO | University City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,959▲ | $58,532 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.26▲ | $28.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,516▲ | $33,948 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,235▲ | $47,483 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,588▲ | $74,921 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,587▲ | $90,725 |
| Total Employed | 89▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University City.
The salary gap between Kansas City and University City is $4,427 (7.56%). Kansas City's median is -2.43% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kansas City spans $61,071,University City spans $56,777. Kansas City has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kansas City ($70,267 effective) pays 7.56% more than University City ($65,326 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,959/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($97,587)
- ✓Larger job market (89 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,267)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose University City if…
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Kansas City grew -50.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 12.6% growth in University City over the same period.
Kansas City, MO
$125,250 (2021) → $62,035 (2025)
University City, MO
$51,234 (2024) → $57,673 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kansas City, MO
University City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays flight attendants more: Kansas City or University City?
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Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov