Cost of Living: Virginia Beach, VA vs Independence, MO (2026)

Virginia Beach

Virginia
117
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Virginia Beach is 75% more expensive than Independence.

$1,649/mo ↑ 55%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↓ 36%
$90,685/yr ↑ 52%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↓ 34%
$366,300 ↑ 120%
Home Value
$166,400 ↓ 55%
$1,704/mo ↑ 63%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 39%
457,066
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $588/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $7,056/year.

Median household income is $31,205/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Independence — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 117 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Independence?
Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $588/month.
Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Independence?
Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $31,205/year higher in Virginia Beach.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Missouri?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Virginia Beach or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/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 Virginia Beach details → View Independence details →

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