Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Independence is 28% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,061/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 24%
$59,480/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 48%
$166,400 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 73%
$1,046/mo ↓ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 27%
121,944
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
9.85%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.93%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $255/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,060/year.

Median household income is $28,287/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Rochester — common questions

Is Independence or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Rochester?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $255/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Rochester?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $28,287/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Minnesota?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Rochester details →

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