Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs North Charleston, SC (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

North Charleston

South Carolina
91

Independence is 26% cheaper than North Charleston.

$1,061/mo ↓ 22%
Median Rent
$1,364/mo ↑ 29%
$59,480/yr ↓ 5%
Median Income
$62,789/yr ↑ 6%
$166,400 ↓ 38%
Home Value
$267,700 ↑ 61%
$1,046/mo ↓ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,312/mo ↑ 25%
121,944
Population
117,460

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
6.4%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.57%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and North Charleston, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 91 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $303/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,636/year.

Median household income is $3,309/year higher in North Charleston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $267,700 in North Charleston.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs North Charleston — common questions

Is Independence or North Charleston cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 91 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and North Charleston?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in North Charleston it's $1,364/month — a difference of $303/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or North Charleston?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $62,789 in North Charleston. Median household income is $3,309/year higher in North Charleston.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and South Carolina?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or North Charleston?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while North Charleston has a cost index of 91 with rent of $1,364/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View North Charleston details →

More Comparisons

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