Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Costa Mesa

California
228

Independence is 71% cheaper than Costa Mesa.

$1,061/mo ↓ 56%
Median Rent
$2,395/mo ↑ 126%
$59,480/yr ↓ 46%
Median Income
$110,073/yr ↑ 85%
$166,400 ↓ 84%
Home Value
$1,054,700 ↑ 534%
$1,046/mo ↓ 58%
Owner Costs
$2,462/mo ↑ 135%
121,944
Population
110,538

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
13.3%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,334/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $16,008/year.

Median household income is $50,593/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Independence or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 228 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Costa Mesa?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $1,334/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Costa Mesa?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $50,593/year higher in Costa Mesa.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and California?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Costa Mesa?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Costa Mesa details →

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