Cost of living in Independence
Independence, Missouri, offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Understanding the cost of living in this city is crucial for anyone considering a move or planning their budget.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Independence, covering everything from dining and groceries to housing and transportation.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $13 on average, with a range between $10.5 and $30.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $65, with prices ranging from $30 to $90.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $11.5, with a range between $10 and $13.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3.5 to $7, imported beer $5 to $7, cappuccino is $5, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $7.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.71 and $1.27 per liter, averaging $1.06.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.86 and $4.29, with an average price of $3.6.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.6 to $5.04, averaging $4.85.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.82 to $6.13 per kg, while oranges range from $2.43 to $5.51 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.88 and $3.86 per kg, and lettuce costs $1 to $3 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.71 and $0.86 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3.95, with a cost of $1.24 to $1.43 per km and $36 to $45 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $980 to $1000, averaging $990.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $800 to $880, averaging $840.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1183 to $3500, averaging $2341.5.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1083 to $1500, averaging $1291.5.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre is $1496.18.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $150 and $350, averaging $225.85.
- Internet - Internet services range from $45 to $85, with an average cost of $67.5.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Independence, MO, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Dining out is reasonably priced, with a variety of options from casual to mid-range restaurants.
Housing costs are moderate, with affordable rental options both in and outside the city centre.
Transportation costs are low, particularly for gasoline, making it a car-friendly city.
Conclusion
Overall, Independence, MO, provides a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and transportation.
The city is an attractive option for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to urban amenities.
Potential residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high costs associated with larger cities.