Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Lowell

Massachusetts
119

Independence is 44% cheaper than Lowell.

$1,061/mo ↓ 34%
Median Rent
$1,603/mo ↑ 51%
$59,480/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$76,205/yr ↑ 28%
$166,400 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$395,100 ↑ 137%
$1,046/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,672/mo ↑ 60%
121,944
Population
114,799

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
9.0%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.93%
Property Tax
1.15%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.2%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $542/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $6,504/year.

Median household income is $16,725/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Lowell — common questions

Is Independence or Lowell cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 119 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Lowell?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $542/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Lowell?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $16,725/year higher in Lowell.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Massachusetts?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Lowell?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Lowell details →

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