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

Salem

Oregon
105
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Salem is 57% more expensive than Independence.

$1,323/mo ↑ 25%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 20%
$71,900/yr ↑ 21%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 17%
$382,400 ↑ 130%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 56%
$1,440/mo ↑ 38%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 27%
176,666
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $262/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $3,144/year.

Median household income is $12,420/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Independence — common questions

Is Salem or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Salem and Independence?
Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $262/month.
Which city has higher income, Salem or Independence?
Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $12,420/year higher in Salem.
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 Salem or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 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 Salem details → View Independence details →

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