Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Independence, KS
Considering a move to Independence, KS? This welcoming town of 8,325 offers a low cost of living with median home prices around $77,200 and average rents of $725. Residents enjoy short commute times averaging 15 minutes, over 60% sunny days each year, and access to local schools and colleges. While property crime rates are higher than average, the community features affordable housing, friendly neighbors, and a relaxed pace—ideal for those seeking small-town life with essential amenities nearby.
Demographics - Independence, KS
Demographics - Independence, KS
Independence, KS is a close-knit city of 8,325 residents, with a median age of nearly 39 and a population density that offers a small-town feel. The community is predominantly White, while also representing Black, Hispanic, and other minority groups, and features a balanced gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up just over 5% of the population, contributing to the city’s modest cultural diversity.
Population:
8,325
Density:
1,170 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.7
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.9%
Black:
5.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
5.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Independence, KS?
Independence offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of about $77,200 and average rent at $725 per month. Daily expenses such as groceries and utilities are below the national average, making the city budget-friendly for families and individuals. State income taxes range from 3.1% to 5.7%, further supporting a low overall cost of living.
Median House Value:
$77,200
Gross Rent:
$725
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$117
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
75.6
Grocery:
94.4
Housing:
47.7
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
89.5
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
91.8
Crime
Is Independence, KS a safe place to live?
While Independence is known for its welcoming atmosphere, property crime rates are higher than average, with about 3,240 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 31 chance of experiencing property crime. Violent crime is less common, with a rate of 422 per 100,000 and a 1 in 238 chance. Residents should stay mindful of safety, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
422
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,240
Crime Index:
3,662
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Independence, KS year-round?
Residents in Independence experience four distinct seasons, with hot summers reaching highs near 91°F and winters dipping to around 22°F. The city enjoys 62% sunny days annually and receives about 41 inches of rainfall, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer comfortable, mild temperatures ideal for enjoying local parks and events.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The Independence community is characterized by a median household income of $40,250 and a family income of $54,400, with a poverty rate of 23.9%. Most residents enjoy short commutes of just over 15 minutes, and nearly 88% have completed high school. Public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the city’s car-friendly layout and suburban lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,400
Household Income:
$40,250
Family Income:
$54,400
Per Capita Income:
$22,200
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$25,800
Poverty Rate:
23.9%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$725
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.9%
Bachelors or More:
18.7%
Education
How are the schools in Independence, KS?
Independence offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Independence High School and Jefferson Elementary, each maintaining favorable student-teacher ratios. The city is also home to Independence Community College and is close to Coffeyville Community College, providing convenient access to higher education. Private school options and strong high school graduation rates reflect the community’s commitment to learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Independence High School
Street:
1301 N 10th St
Phone:
620-332-1810
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Name:
Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
300 W Locust St
Phone:
620-332-1850
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Andrew School
Street:
215 S 4th St
Phone:
620-331-2870
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Independence Community College
City:
Independence
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
850
Name:
Coffeyville Community College
City:
Coffeyville
State:
KS
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Independence is served by Labette Health Independence Healthcare Center, offering general and outpatient care with emergency services available. The city has 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 91.1%. Overall, residents have access to essential healthcare services within the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Labette Health Independence Healthcare Center
Address:
510 N Peter Pan Rd, Independence, KS 67301
Phone:
(620) 577-4300
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Independence, KS?
The local housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $77,200 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $725. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area enjoys a low foreclosure rate of just 0.4%. Modest home appreciation and a stable rental vacancy rate make Independence an attractive option for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$77,200
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$725
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Independence residents are managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Division of Vehicles, headquartered in Topeka. The DMV provides resources for licensing, registration, and driver information both online and by phone. Residents can access up-to-date information and complete many services through the official Kansas DMV website.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone:
785-296-3963
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.