Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Brandon, FL (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Brandon

Florida
108

Independence is 38% cheaper than Brandon.

$1,061/mo ↓ 37%
Median Rent
$1,691/mo ↑ 59%
$59,480/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$77,068/yr ↑ 30%
$166,400 ↓ 43%
Home Value
$293,800 ↑ 77%
$1,046/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,546/mo ↑ 48%
121,944
Population
116,365

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
0%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Brandon, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $630/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $7,560/year.

Median household income is $17,588/year higher in Brandon. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $293,800 in Brandon.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Brandon residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Brandon — common questions

Is Independence or Brandon cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 108 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Brandon?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Brandon it's $1,691/month — a difference of $630/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Brandon?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $77,068 in Brandon. Median household income is $17,588/year higher in Brandon.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Florida?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Brandon?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Brandon has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,691/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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