Kansas City vs University City: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer 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 | $66,367▲ | $61,788 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.91▲ | $29.70 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,843▲ | $48,376 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,467▲ | $54,372 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,027▲ | $72,785 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,239 | $82,466▲ |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to University City.
The salary gap between Kansas City and University City is $4,579 (7.41%). Kansas City's median is +1.46% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kansas City spans $28,396,University City spans $34,090. University City has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced athletic trainers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kansas City ($71,715 effective) pays 4.00% more than University City ($68,960 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 ($66,367/year)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,715)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose University City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,466)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Kansas City grew 24.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.6% growth in University City over the same period.
Kansas City, MO
$50,810 (2019) → $63,430 (2025)
University City, MO
$45,934 (2024) → $59,054 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kansas City, MO
University City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Kansas City or University City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kansas City and University City?
Should I relocate from Kansas City to University City as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Kansas City vs University City?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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 Jordan Lee, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov