Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Independence, MO (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Norfolk is 33% more expensive than Independence.

$1,246/mo ↑ 17%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 15%
$64,017/yr ↑ 8%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 7%
$271,900 ↑ 63%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 39%
$1,366/mo ↑ 31%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 23%
235,037
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $185/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $2,220/year.

Median household income is $4,537/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Independence — common questions

Is Norfolk or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 89 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Independence?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $185/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Independence?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $4,537/year higher in Norfolk.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Missouri?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/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 Norfolk details → View Independence details →

More Comparisons

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