Independence, MO
Population 121,944 · Missouri
About Independence, MO
Independence is a major city located in Missouri with a population of 121,944 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,480 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.4 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 $166,400, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Independence in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,061, 9% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 55,424 total housing units, 61% are owner-occupied (31,086 units) and 39% are renter-occupied (19,839 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Independence shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Independence have an average one-way commute time of 23.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.9% of Independence residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 8.7% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 2.8% Asian residents, with 5.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Independence Ranks in Missouri
Cost of Living in Independence, MO
Compared to national averages, Independence has a median household income of $59,480 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $166,400, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,061 is 9% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Independence's income is 3% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 10% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Independence, MO?
Independence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $166,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,061/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,480) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Independence provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Independence has a population of 121,944 with a median age of 38.4 years. Compare Independence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Independence
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | 127,200 | $64,488 | $268,300 | Compare |
| Lee's Summit | 102,583 | $104,989 | $313,200 | Compare |
| O'Fallon | 92,697 | $107,203 | $305,100 | Compare |
| Springfield | 169,432 | $45,984 | $165,200 | Compare |
| St. Joseph | 71,542 | $55,578 | $144,200 | Compare |
| St. Charles | 71,048 | $85,522 | $280,800 | Compare |
| Blue Springs | 59,416 | $84,075 | $241,500 | Compare |
| St. Peters | 58,200 | $89,827 | $252,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Missouri
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, MO?
The population of Independence, MO is 121,944 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Independence?
The median household income in Independence, MO is $59,480 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, MO is $166,400, which is 32% 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, MO is $1,061, which is 9% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, MO is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Independence, MO a good place to live?
Independence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 121,944 and a median age of 38.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Independence, MO?
20.9% 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, MO: median home value is $166,400 (32% below national), median rent is $1,061/month, and median household income is $59,480. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Independence?
The poverty rate in Independence, MO is 15.3%, 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, MO?
Independence's population is 8.7% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, and 10.8% two or more races. 5.3% of residents are foreign-born.