Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Independence, MO (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Philadelphia is 27% more expensive than Independence.

$1,323/mo ↑ 25%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 20%
$60,698/yr ↑ 2%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 2%
$232,400 ↑ 40%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 28%
$1,233/mo ↑ 18%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 15%
1,582,432
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $262/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,144/year.

Median household income is $1,218/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Independence — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Independence?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $262/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Independence?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $1,218/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Missouri?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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 Philadelphia details → View Independence details →

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