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

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Miami Gardens

Florida
115

Independence is 42% cheaper than Miami Gardens.

$1,061/mo ↓ 38%
Median Rent
$1,709/mo ↑ 61%
$59,480/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$60,979/yr ↑ 3%
$166,400 ↓ 51%
Home Value
$337,200 ↑ 103%
$1,046/mo ↓ 36%
Owner Costs
$1,640/mo ↑ 57%
121,944
Population
111,264

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
33.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Miami Gardens, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 115 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $648/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $7,776/year.

Median household income is $1,499/year higher in Miami Gardens. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $337,200 in Miami Gardens.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Miami Gardens — common questions

Is Independence or Miami Gardens cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 115 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Miami Gardens?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Miami Gardens it's $1,709/month — a difference of $648/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Miami Gardens?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $60,979 in Miami Gardens. Median household income is $1,499/year higher in Miami Gardens.
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 Miami Gardens?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Miami Gardens has a cost index of 115 with rent of $1,709/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Miami Gardens details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Independence and Miami Gardens

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