Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs West Palm Beach, FL (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

West Palm Beach

Florida
119

Independence is 44% cheaper than West Palm Beach.

$1,061/mo ↓ 38%
Median Rent
$1,709/mo ↑ 61%
$59,480/yr ↓ 14%
Median Income
$69,261/yr ↑ 16%
$166,400 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$369,800 ↑ 122%
$1,046/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,667/mo ↑ 59%
121,944
Population
119,508

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
29.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and West Palm Beach, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $648/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $7,776/year.

Median household income is $9,781/year higher in West Palm Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $369,800 in West Palm Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs West Palm Beach — common questions

Is Independence or West Palm Beach cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 119 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and West Palm Beach?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in West Palm Beach it's $1,709/month — a difference of $648/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or West Palm Beach?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $69,261 in West Palm Beach. Median household income is $9,781/year higher in West Palm Beach.
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 West Palm Beach?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while West Palm Beach has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,709/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View West Palm Beach details →

More Comparisons

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