Independence, MO
Population 121,944 · Missouri
About Independence, MO
Independence is a major city in Missouri with a population of 121,944 residents. The median household income is $59,480 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Independence is 38.4 years.
Housing in Independence has a median home value of $166,400 and median monthly rent of $1,061. Of the 55,424 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 31,086 owner-occupied and 19,839 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Independence is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 15.3%. 20.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.6 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Independence
What is the population of Independence, MO?
The population of Independence, MO is 121,944 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Independence?
The median household income in Independence, MO is $59,480 per year.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, MO is $166,400.
What is the average rent in Independence?
The median monthly rent in Independence, MO is $1,061.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, MO is 6.0%.