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

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Lakeland

Florida
82

Independence is 18% cheaper than Lakeland.

$1,061/mo ↓ 18%
Median Rent
$1,299/mo ↑ 22%
$59,480/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$60,947/yr ↑ 2%
$166,400 ↓ 27%
Home Value
$229,100 ↑ 38%
$1,046/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↑ 10%
121,944
Population
117,030

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
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $238/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $2,856/year.

Median household income is $1,467/year higher in Lakeland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Independence or Lakeland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 82 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Lakeland?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $238/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Lakeland?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $1,467/year higher in Lakeland.
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 Lakeland?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Lakeland details →

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