Fort Osage High School in Independence, MO

Independence is a city of nearly 122,000 residents with a median age of 38.4, according to the 2023 American Community Survey. The majority of the roughly 51,000 households here are owner-occupied, at 61 percent, and the median household income stands at $59,480 as of 2023. The median home value is estimated at $166,400, while renters pay a median gross rent of $1,061 monthly. About 21 percent of the adult population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, per the 2023 Census data.

The commute from Independence averages 23.6 minutes, making it accessible to Kansas City job centers without requiring a long daily drive. Home sales have been steady, with 161 homes sold in the last 30 days at a median price of $225,000—homes typically spending 19 days on the market. Year-to-date, 1,095 homes have sold at the same median price of $225,000, and the sell-to-list ratio of 100 percent indicates buyers are meeting asking prices consistently.

New construction activity remains modest. As of July 2026, the city issued 12 total building permits, including 8 for single-family homes. For buyers seeking an established community with steady market activity and moderate home prices relative to the metro area, Independence offers a measured pace with predictable inventory and sales patterns.