Independence, KS
Population 8,469 · Kansas
About Independence, KS
Independence is a small town located in Kansas with a population of 8,469 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,164 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Independence features a median home value of $78,500, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Independence one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $790, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,648 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (2,631 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (1,134 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Independence shows an unemployment rate of 3.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Independence have an average one-way commute time of 15.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
26.4% of Independence residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 6.6% White, 5.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Independence Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Independence, KS
Compared to national averages, Independence has a median household income of $49,164 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $78,500, which is 68% below the national median. Monthly rent at $790 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Independence's income is 23% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 31% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Independence, KS?
Independence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $78,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $790/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,164) that falls below the national average. However, Independence’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Independence has a population of 8,469 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare Independence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Independence
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Riley | 8,595 | $52,823 | $222,100 | Compare |
| Chanute | 8,629 | $47,885 | $77,900 | Compare |
| Bel Aire | 8,654 | $93,182 | $213,500 | Compare |
| Spring Hill | 8,691 | $108,007 | $323,300 | Compare |
| Coffeyville | 8,752 | $41,901 | $55,600 | Compare |
| Valley Center | 8,937 | $73,480 | $214,300 | Compare |
| Bonner Springs | 7,735 | $81,865 | $223,800 | Compare |
| Park City | 7,726 | $70,317 | $163,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Independence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Independence
What is the population of Independence, KS?
The population of Independence, KS is 8,469 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Independence?
The median household income in Independence, KS is $49,164 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, KS is $78,500, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Independence?
The median monthly rent in Independence, KS is $790, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, KS is 3.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Independence, KS a good place to live?
Independence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,469 and a median age of 38.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Independence, KS?
26.4% of residents in Independence aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Independence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Independence, KS: median home value is $78,500 (68% below national), median rent is $790/month, and median household income is $49,164. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Independence?
The poverty rate in Independence, KS is 16.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Independence, KS?
Independence's population is 6.6% White, 5.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 2.4% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.