Forklift Operator Salary in Kansas City, MO
Forklift Operator salaries in Kansas City range from $25,500 to $55,250 in 2026. The mid-level median is $37,825, which is 15% below the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$25,500 – $32,300
Median: $28,900 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$33,150 – $42,500
Median: $37,825 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$44,200 – $55,250
Median: $49,725 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Forklift Operator Salary in Kansas City, MO
Estimated†$38,675–$48,875/year
Median: $43,775 per year (adjusted for Kansas City cost of living)
Junior
$28,900
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$37,825
3-5 yrs
Senior
$49,725
6+ yrs
Cost of Living in Kansas City
Cost of Living Levellow
Population510K
Top IndustriesTechnology & Health IT, Animal Health Sciences, Financial Services
vs National Average-15%
Top Employers in Kansas City
Cerner (Oracle Health)Hallmark CardsSprint/T-MobileBurns & McDonnellH&R Block
How Kansas City Compares
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO | $37,825 | low |
| New York, NY | $64,525 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $64,525 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $53,400 | high |
| Houston, TX | $44,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $44,500 | moderate |