Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Independence, MO (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Baltimore is 25% more expensive than Independence.

$1,290/mo ↑ 22%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 18%
$59,623/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$59,480/yr ≈ Same
$219,300 ↑ 32%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 24%
$1,333/mo ↑ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 22%
577,193
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $229/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $2,748/year.

Median household income is $143/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Independence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Independence — common questions

Is Baltimore or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 84 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Independence?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $229/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Independence?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $143/year higher in Baltimore.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Missouri?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/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 Baltimore details → View Independence details →

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