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

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Downey

California
169

Independence is 60% cheaper than Downey.

$1,061/mo ↓ 44%
Median Rent
$1,892/mo ↑ 78%
$59,480/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$87,400/yr ↑ 47%
$166,400 ↓ 77%
Home Value
$728,500 ↑ 338%
$1,046/mo ↓ 48%
Owner Costs
$1,997/mo ↑ 91%
121,944
Population
111,793

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
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $831/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $9,972/year.

Median household income is $27,920/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Downey — common questions

Is Independence or Downey cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 169 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Downey?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $831/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Downey?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $27,920/year higher in Downey.
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 Downey?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Downey details →

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