Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Independence, MO (2026)

Birmingham

Alabama
62
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Birmingham is 7% cheaper than Independence.

$1,047/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 1%
$44,376/yr ↓ 25%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 34%
$138,600 ↓ 17%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 20%
$991/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 6%
199,322
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $15,104/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Independence — common questions

Is Birmingham or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Independence?
Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $14/month.
Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Independence?
Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $15,104/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Missouri?
Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Birmingham or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/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 Birmingham details → View Independence details →

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