Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Independence, MO (2026)

Madison

Wisconsin
103
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Madison is 54% more expensive than Independence.

$1,364/mo ↑ 29%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 22%
$76,983/yr ↑ 29%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 23%
$346,900 ↑ 108%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 52%
$1,476/mo ↑ 41%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 29%
275,568
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $303/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,636/year.

Median household income is $17,503/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Independence — common questions

Is Madison or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 103 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Madison and Independence?
Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $303/month.
Which city has higher income, Madison or Independence?
Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $17,503/year higher in Madison.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Missouri?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Madison or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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 Madison details → View Independence details →

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