Garnett, KS vs Independence, KS

Independence is moderately more affordable than Garnett, with a 13.8% lower cost of living index. Garnett scores 70 compared to 62 for Independence, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Garnett can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Garnett is $909/month compared to $790/month in Independence — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Independence is more affordable at $78,500 median vs $137,800.

Median household income in Garnett is $46,875 compared to $49,164 in Independence (-4.7%). Independence offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Garnett spend roughly 23.3% of their income on rent, more than the 19.3% in Independence.

Climate-wise, Independence is notably warmer with an average of 58.8°F compared to 55.1°F in Garnett. Independence receives more rainfall at 40.4" per year compared to 37.5" in Garnett.