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

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Pittsburgh is 13% more expensive than Independence.

$1,221/mo ↑ 15%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 13%
$64,137/yr ↑ 8%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 7%
$193,200 ↑ 16%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 14%
$1,136/mo ↑ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 8%
303,620
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

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $160/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $1,920/year.

Median household income is $4,657/year higher in Pittsburgh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Independence — common questions

Is Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh and Independence?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $160/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Independence?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $4,657/year higher in Pittsburgh.
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 Pittsburgh or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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 Pittsburgh details → View Independence details →

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