Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Independence, MO (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Phoenix is 63% more expensive than Independence.

$1,458/mo ↑ 37%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 27%
$77,041/yr ↑ 30%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 23%
$381,900 ↑ 130%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 56%
$1,430/mo ↑ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 27%
1,624,832
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $397/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $4,764/year.

Median household income is $17,561/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Independence — common questions

Is Phoenix or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Independence?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $397/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Independence?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $17,561/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Missouri?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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 Phoenix details → View Independence details →

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