Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Independence is 54% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,061/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 46%
$59,480/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 36%
$166,400 ↓ 62%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 161%
$1,046/mo ↓ 36%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 57%
121,944
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.25%
4.225%
Sales Tax
6.0%
0.93%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $491/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $5,892/year.

Median household income is $21,609/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Independence or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $491/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $21,609/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Michigan?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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