Cost of Living: Denver, CO vs Independence, MO (2026)

Denver

Colorado
147
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Denver is 119% more expensive than Independence.

$1,770/mo ↑ 67%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 40%
$91,681/yr ↑ 54%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 35%
$586,700 ↑ 253%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 72%
$1,839/mo ↑ 76%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 43%
713,734
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
4.95%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

23.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $709/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $8,508/year.

Median household income is $32,201/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Denver slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Independence — common questions

Is Denver or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 147 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denver and Independence?
Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $709/month.
Which city has higher income, Denver or Independence?
Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $32,201/year higher in Denver.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Missouri?
Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Denver or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/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 Denver details → View Independence details →

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