Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Waterbury, CT (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Waterbury

Connecticut
76

Independence is 12% cheaper than Waterbury.

$1,061/mo ↓ 10%
Median Rent
$1,180/mo ↑ 11%
$59,480/yr ↑ 15%
Median Income
$51,642/yr ↓ 13%
$166,400 ↓ 10%
Home Value
$185,400 ↑ 11%
$1,046/mo ↓ 18%
Owner Costs
$1,273/mo ↑ 22%
121,944
Population
114,356

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
6.99%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
6.35%
0.93%
Property Tax
2.15%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Waterbury, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $119/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $1,428/year.

Median household income is $7,838/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $185,400 in Waterbury.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Waterbury — common questions

Is Independence or Waterbury cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Waterbury?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Waterbury it's $1,180/month — a difference of $119/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Waterbury?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $51,642 in Waterbury. Median household income is $7,838/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Connecticut?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Waterbury?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Waterbury has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,180/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Waterbury details →

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