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

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Dearborn

Michigan
79

Independence is 15% cheaper than Dearborn.

$1,061/mo ↓ 16%
Median Rent
$1,264/mo ↑ 19%
$59,480/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$65,192/yr ↑ 10%
$166,400 ↓ 19%
Home Value
$205,900 ↑ 24%
$1,046/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,174/mo ↑ 12%
121,944
Population
107,846

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Dearborn, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $203/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $2,436/year.

Median household income is $5,712/year higher in Dearborn. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $205,900 in Dearborn.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Dearborn — common questions

Is Independence or Dearborn cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 79 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Dearborn?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Dearborn it's $1,264/month — a difference of $203/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Dearborn?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $65,192 in Dearborn. Median household income is $5,712/year higher in Dearborn.
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 Dearborn?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Dearborn has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,264/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Dearborn details →

More Comparisons

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