The Independence Story | City of Independence, MO

Whether you are a history buff, a young professional looking for job opportunities, or a family searching for a great place to raise children, Independence offers the best of both worlds – a rich history and a promising future.

Located near the south bank of the Missouri River, Independence is the largest suburb on the Missouri side of the Kansas City metropolitan area and the fifth largest city in the Show Me State. It is a city known for its rich history and thriving community.

Independence has a long history that predates its 1827 founding. It earned its nickname the “Queen City of the Trails” in the 1800's, when it served as a hub for pioneers on their westward journey along the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails. Independence gained attention 100 years later as the hometown of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States and known as the 'People's President'. President Truman's accomplishments include taking the first steps in protecting civil rights, ending World War II, and presiding over an economy of nearly two decades of unprecedented growth.

One of the most attractive aspects of living in Independence is the affordable cost of living. The city offers a range of housing options, from historic homes to modern apartments, from a rural lifestyle to living in a first-ring suburb of a metropolitan city, making it accessible for individuals and families of all sizes and budgets. Residents take full advantage of the city’s nearly 800 acres of beautiful parks, trails, and recreational activities, including a bustling Uptown Market. Just a few miles away is the Truman Sports Complex, home to the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals. Vibrant neighborhoods are a hallmark of Independence. With multiple museums and historical sites, there is no shortage of community involvement opportunities.

The City of Independence is a launching pad for brave new ideas, thanks to a fiercely independent and creative work force. Our businesses blaze new trails in industries from business technology and healthcare to food services and bring a new generation of innovators to the area. The Ennovation Center is an entrepreneurial incubator that has been the start of dozens of small businesses in Independence. Major employers like HCA Healthcare, GEHA, and the Independence School District, the city has seen consistent economic growth, providing our 120,000 residents stability and a promising future.

Image of a mural depicting pioneers heading west with oxen pulling a covered wagon on a dirt road and activity behind them.

Looking up at the statue of President Truman walking with his cane on the east side of the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence, Mo.

An image of the north side of the Independence Uptown Market building during the daytime with a few parked vehicles and some green landscape.

Independence Stats:

Independence was founded in March 1827 but was not Chartered with the State of Missouri until March 1849.
Independence is the 5th largest city in the state of Missouri.
It is part of the Kansas City Metropolitan area which includes a population of 2.1 million people, and is just minutes from downtown Kansas City.
Independence covers approximately 78 square miles, transitioning from more urban areas on the west to more rural areas on the east.
Independence has a population of approximately 123,000 people.