Independence, KY vs Madisonville, KY

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Madisonville is 26.2% cheaper than Independence. With a cost index of 71 vs 89, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Madisonville to Independence should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Independence is $1,204/month compared to $860/month in Madisonville — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Madisonville is more affordable at $152,300 median vs $240,500.

Median household income in Independence is $98,653 compared to $56,902 in Madisonville (+73.4%). While Independence is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Independence spend roughly 14.6% of their income on rent, less than the 18.1% in Madisonville.