Cost of Living: Thornton, CO vs Independence, MO (2026)

Thornton

Colorado
138
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Thornton is 106% more expensive than Independence.

$1,810/mo ↑ 71%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 41%
$100,985/yr ↑ 70%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 41%
$482,200 ↑ 190%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 65%
$1,914/mo ↑ 83%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 45%
142,878
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
4.95%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Thornton, CO and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $749/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $8,988/year.

Median household income is $41,505/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Thornton is $482,200 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Thornton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thornton vs Independence — common questions

Is Thornton 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 Thornton and Independence?
Median rent in Thornton is $1,810/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $749/month.
Which city has higher income, Thornton or Independence?
Median household income is $100,985 in Thornton and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $41,505/year higher in Thornton.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Missouri?
Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Thornton or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Thornton has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,810/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 Thornton details → View Independence details →

More Comparisons

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