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

Scottsdale

Arizona
165
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Scottsdale is 146% more expensive than Independence.

$1,910/mo ↑ 80%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 44%
$107,372/yr ↑ 81%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 45%
$709,900 ↑ 327%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 77%
$1,824/mo ↑ 74%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 43%
242,169
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

21.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Scottsdale, AZ and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 165 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $849/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $10,188/year.

Median household income is $47,892/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Scottsdale is $709,900 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Scottsdale vs Independence — common questions

Is Scottsdale or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Scottsdale and Independence?
Median rent in Scottsdale is $1,910/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $849/month.
Which city has higher income, Scottsdale or Independence?
Median household income is $107,372 in Scottsdale and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $47,892/year higher in Scottsdale.
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 Scottsdale or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with median rent of $1,910/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 Scottsdale details → View Independence details →

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