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

Louisville

Kentucky
74
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Louisville is 10% more expensive than Independence.

$1,069/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ≈ Same
$64,731/yr ↑ 9%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 8%
$221,500 ↑ 33%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 25%
$1,118/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 6%
627,210
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

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Louisville, KY and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,251/year higher in Louisville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Louisville is $221,500 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Louisville vs Independence — common questions

Is Louisville or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 74 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Louisville and Independence?
Median rent in Louisville is $1,069/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $8/month.
Which city has higher income, Louisville or Independence?
Median household income is $64,731 in Louisville and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $5,251/year higher in Louisville.
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 Louisville or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Louisville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,069/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 Louisville details → View Independence details →

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