Independence, MO vs St. Joseph, MO

St. Joseph is moderately more affordable than Independence, with a 13.2% lower cost of living index. Independence scores 78 compared to 69 for St. Joseph, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Independence can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Independence is $1,061/month compared to $884/month in St. Joseph — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: St. Joseph is more affordable at $144,200 median vs $166,400.

Median household income in Independence is $59,480 compared to $55,578 in St. Joseph (+7%). The higher salaries in Independence partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Independence spend roughly 21.4% of their income on rent, more than the 19.1% in St. Joseph.