Cost of Living: Independence, MO vs Wilmington, NC (2026)

Independence

Missouri
67
VS

Wilmington

North Carolina
100

Independence is 33% cheaper than Wilmington.

$1,061/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,311/mo ↑ 24%
$59,480/yr ↓ 7%
Median Income
$63,900/yr ↑ 7%
$166,400 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$350,300 ↑ 111%
$1,046/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,371/mo ↑ 31%
121,944
Population
118,578

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.5%
4.225%
State Sales Tax
4.75%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

21.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Independence, MO and Wilmington, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $250/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,000/year.

Median household income is $4,420/year higher in Wilmington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Independence is $166,400 compared to $350,300 in Wilmington.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Wilmington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Independence vs Wilmington — common questions

Is Independence or Wilmington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Independence and Wilmington?
Median rent in Independence is $1,061/month and in Wilmington it's $1,311/month — a difference of $250/month.
Which city has higher income, Independence or Wilmington?
Median household income is $59,480 in Independence and $63,900 in Wilmington. Median household income is $4,420/year higher in Wilmington.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and North Carolina?
Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Independence or Wilmington?
It depends on your priorities. Independence has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,061/mo, while Wilmington has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,311/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Independence details → View Wilmington details →

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