Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Lafayette, LA (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Lafayette

Louisiana
77

Independence is 10% cheaper than Lafayette.

$1,061/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,065/mo ≈ Same
$59,480/yr ↓ 3%
Median Income
$61,454/yr ↑ 3%
$166,400 ↓ 34%
Home Value
$251,300 ↑ 51%
$1,046/mo ↓ 1%
Owner Costs
$1,057/mo ↑ 1%
121,944
Population
121,537

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.25%
4.225%
Sales Tax
4.45%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.55%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Lafayette, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 77 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,974/year higher in Lafayette. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $251,300 in Lafayette.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Lafayette slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Lafayette — common questions

Is Independence or Lafayette cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 77 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Lafayette?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Lafayette it's $1,065/month — a difference of $4/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Lafayette?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $61,454 in Lafayette. Median household income is $1,974/year higher in Lafayette.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Louisiana?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Lafayette?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Lafayette has a cost index of 77 with rent of $1,065/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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