Columbia vs Independence: Cost of Living Compared (2026)
Updated Jun 2026 (3 months ago) · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Energy Information Administration
| Metric | Columbia | Independence | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $943 | $921 | +2% |
| Median household income | $66,498 | $60,339 | +10% |
| Grocery cost index | 96.3 | 96.3 | — |
| Utilities (monthly) | $146 | $146 | — |
Salary equivalent between cities
Equivalent salary needed
$88,089
- Difference
- $8,089