Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Provo, UT (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Provo

Utah
102

Independence is 34% cheaper than Provo.

$1,061/mo ↓ 8%
Median Rent
$1,152/mo ↑ 9%
$59,480/yr ↓ 5%
Median Income
$62,800/yr ↑ 6%
$166,400 ↓ 62%
Home Value
$437,100 ↑ 163%
$1,046/mo ↓ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,220/mo ↑ 17%
121,944
Population
114,303

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.65%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.1%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.58%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Provo, UT, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 102 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $91/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $1,092/year.

Median household income is $3,320/year higher in Provo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $437,100 in Provo.

Utah has a lower income tax rate, making Provo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Provo — common questions

Is Independence or Provo cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 102 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Provo?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Provo it's $1,152/month — a difference of $91/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Provo?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $62,800 in Provo. Median household income is $3,320/year higher in Provo.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Utah?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Utah has 4.65% income tax, 6.1% sales tax, and 0.58% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Provo?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Provo has a cost index of 102 with rent of $1,152/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Provo details →

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