Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Independence, MO (2026)

Seattle

Washington
196
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Seattle is 193% more expensive than Independence.

$1,998/mo ↑ 88%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 47%
$121,984/yr ↑ 105%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 51%
$912,100 ↑ 448%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 82%
$2,220/mo ↑ 112%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 53%
741,440
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

19.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $937/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $11,244/year.

Median household income is $62,504/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Independence — common questions

Is Seattle or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 196 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Seattle and Independence?
Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $937/month.
Which city has higher income, Seattle or Independence?
Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $62,504/year higher in Seattle.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Missouri?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Seattle or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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 Seattle details → View Independence details →

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