Cost of Living: Springfield, MO vs Independence, MO (2026)

Springfield

Missouri
60
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Springfield is 10% cheaper than Independence.

$920/mo ↓ 13%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 15%
$45,984/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 29%
$165,200 ≈ Same
Home Value
$166,400 ≈ Same
$908/mo ↓ 13%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 15%
169,432
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

24.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Springfield, MO and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 60 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $141/month cheaper in Springfield, saving renters about $1,692/year.

Median household income is $13,496/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Springfield is $165,200 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Springfield vs Independence — common questions

Is Springfield or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Springfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 60 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Springfield and Independence?
Median rent in Springfield is $920/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $141/month.
Which city has higher income, Springfield or Independence?
Median household income is $45,984 in Springfield and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $13,496/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Missouri and Missouri?
Both cities are in Missouri and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Springfield or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Springfield has a cost index of 60 with median rent of $920/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 Springfield details → View Independence details →

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