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

Huntsville

Alabama
78
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Huntsville is 16% more expensive than Independence.

$1,078/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 2%
$70,778/yr ↑ 19%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 16%
$263,100 ↑ 58%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 37%
$1,046/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ≈ Same
218,814
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

18.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Huntsville, AL and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 78 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,298/year higher in Huntsville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Huntsville is $263,100 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Huntsville vs Independence — common questions

Is Huntsville or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Huntsville and Independence?
Median rent in Huntsville is $1,078/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $17/month.
Which city has higher income, Huntsville or Independence?
Median household income is $70,778 in Huntsville and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $11,298/year higher in Huntsville.
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 Huntsville or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with median rent of $1,078/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 Huntsville details → View Independence details →

More Comparisons

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