Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Independence, MO (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Jackson is 13% cheaper than Independence.

$1,018/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 4%
$43,238/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 38%
$108,200 ↓ 35%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 54%
$956/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 9%
149,827
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
4.95%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $16,242/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Independence — common questions

Is Jackson or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Independence?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $43/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Independence?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $16,242/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and Missouri?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Independence has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,061/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Independence details →

More Comparisons

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