Cost of Living: Norman, OK vs Independence, MO (2026)

Norman

Oklahoma
76
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Norman is 13% more expensive than Independence.

$1,064/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ≈ Same
$65,060/yr ↑ 9%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 9%
$239,300 ↑ 44%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 30%
$1,121/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 7%
128,714
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

4.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.5%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.9%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

19.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norman, OK and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,580/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norman is $239,300 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norman vs Independence — common questions

Is Norman or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norman and Independence?
Median rent in Norman is $1,064/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $3/month.
Which city has higher income, Norman or Independence?
Median household income is $65,060 in Norman and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $5,580/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Oklahoma and Missouri?
Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Norman or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Norman has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,064/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 Norman details → View Independence details →

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