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

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Milwaukee and Independence have a similar cost of living.

$1,033/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 3%
$51,888/yr ↓ 13%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 15%
$172,000 ↑ 3%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 3%
$1,082/mo ↑ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 3%
569,756
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

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

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

Median household income is $7,592/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Independence — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Independence?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $28/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Independence?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $7,592/year higher in Independence.
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 Milwaukee or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/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 Milwaukee details → View Independence details →

More Comparisons

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