Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Independence, MO (2026)

Montgomery

Alabama
64
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Montgomery is 4% cheaper than Independence.

$1,059/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ≈ Same
$55,687/yr ↓ 6%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 7%
$148,500 ↓ 11%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 12%
$1,023/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 2%
198,440
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,793/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Independence — common questions

Is Montgomery or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Independence?
Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $2/month.
Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Independence?
Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $3,793/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Missouri?
Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Montgomery or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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 Montgomery details → View Independence details →

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