Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Independence, MO (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Akron is 12% cheaper than Independence.

$930/mo ↓ 12%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 14%
$48,544/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 23%
$111,200 ↓ 33%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 50%
$904/mo ↓ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 16%
189,526
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.75%
Sales Tax
4.225%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $131/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $1,572/year.

Median household income is $10,936/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Independence — common questions

Is Akron or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Independence?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $131/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Independence?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $10,936/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Missouri?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Independence has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,061/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Akron details → View Independence details →