Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Independence, MO (2026)

Buffalo

New York
61
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Buffalo is 9% cheaper than Independence.

$989/mo ↓ 7%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 7%
$48,050/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 24%
$152,300 ↓ 8%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 9%
$929/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 13%
276,397
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

24.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $72/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $864/year.

Median household income is $11,430/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Independence — common questions

Is Buffalo or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Independence?
Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $72/month.
Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Independence?
Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $11,430/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between New York and Missouri?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Buffalo or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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 Buffalo details → View Independence details →

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