Cost of Living: Portland, OR vs Independence, MO (2026)

Portland

Oregon
138
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Portland is 106% more expensive than Independence.

$1,596/mo ↑ 50%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 34%
$88,792/yr ↑ 49%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 33%
$557,600 ↑ 235%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 70%
$1,771/mo ↑ 69%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 41%
642,715
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $535/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $6,420/year.

Median household income is $29,312/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Independence — common questions

Is Portland or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Portland and Independence?
Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $535/month.
Which city has higher income, Portland or Independence?
Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $29,312/year higher in Portland.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Missouri?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Portland or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/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 Portland details → View Independence details →

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