Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Independence, MO (2026)

Lexington

Kentucky
82
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Lexington is 22% more expensive than Independence.

$1,101/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 4%
$67,631/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 12%
$272,100 ↑ 64%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 39%
$1,160/mo ↑ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 10%
321,122
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

4.0%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

19.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,151/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Independence — common questions

Is Lexington or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 82 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lexington and Independence?
Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $40/month.
Which city has higher income, Lexington or Independence?
Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $8,151/year higher in Lexington.
How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Missouri?
Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Lexington or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/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 Lexington details → View Independence details →

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