Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Manchester, NH (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Manchester

New Hampshire
106

Independence is 37% cheaper than Manchester.

$1,061/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,465/mo ↑ 38%
$59,480/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$77,415/yr ↑ 30%
$166,400 ↓ 51%
Home Value
$336,300 ↑ 102%
$1,046/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,548/mo ↑ 48%
121,944
Population
115,415

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
0%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.93%
Property Tax
1.86%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Manchester, NH, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 106 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $404/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $4,848/year.

Median household income is $17,935/year higher in Manchester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $336,300 in Manchester.

New Hampshire has no state income tax, giving Manchester residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Manchester — common questions

Is Independence or Manchester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 106 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Manchester?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Manchester it's $1,465/month — a difference of $404/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Manchester?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $77,415 in Manchester. Median household income is $17,935/year higher in Manchester.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and New Hampshire?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. New Hampshire has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.86% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Manchester?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Manchester has a cost index of 106 with rent of $1,465/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Manchester details →

More Comparisons

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