Cost of Living in Independence, KY
Population 29,024 · Kentucky · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Independence cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $241,000, rents near $1,204 a month. An unemployment rate of 2.8% points to a labor market well on the tight side of the national distribution.
Geographically, Independence sits roughly 13 miles south of Cincinnati. Median home values run roughly 12% higher than Cincinnati's $215,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Independence
The median home value in Independence is $240,500 — 21% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,204/month, 8% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $98,653/year is 32% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 2.8%, below the national average of 4.8%. Kentucky's top state income tax rate is 4.0% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. The climate averages highs of 64.4°F and lows of 44.9°F, with about 23.3" of annual snowfall. Overall, Independence has a cost of living index of 84 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 16% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🌤 Climate
NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normals
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 40 | 44 | 54 | 66 | 75 | 83 | 86 | 85 | 79 | 67 | 54 | 43 |
| Low °F | 23 | 26 | 34 | 44 | 54 | 62 | 66 | 65 | 57 | 46 | 35 | 28 |
| Precip" | 3.30 | 3.17 | 4.16 | 4.53 | 4.67 | 4.75 | 3.83 | 3.43 | 3.11 | 3.35 | 3.23 | 3.73 |
| Snow" | 7.7 | 6.7 | 3.4 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.2 | 0.8 | 4.1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Independence, KY?
Independence has a cost index of 84 (100 = national average). It is 16% below the national average.
What is average rent in Independence, KY?
The median gross rent in Independence is $1,204 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Independence?
The median home value in Independence is $240,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Independence?
The median household income in Independence is $98,653 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Independence, KY?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Independence is 6.0%. The Kentucky state income tax top rate is 4.0%.
Is Independence, KY affordable?
Yes, Independence is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 84 — about 16% below the US national average of 100.
What is the weather like in Independence?
Independence has average high temperatures of 64.4°F and average lows of 44.9°F. Annual precipitation is 45.3". Average annual snowfall is 23.3". Data from NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normals.
Independence at a Glance
- Population
- 29,024
- Median Income
- $98,653
- Home Value
- $240,500
- Median Rent
- $1,204/mo
- Unemployment
- 2.8%
- Avg High Temp
- 64.4°F
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
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