Cost of Living in St. Louis

Missouri · Population: 288,512 · Updated 2026

Below Average
Cost Index
95.1
100 = US avg
Median Income
$56K
Annual household
Median Rent
$997/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
21%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing58.6
Groceries311.6
Utilities100.0
Transportation238.1
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$198K
State Income Tax5.3%
Unemployment Rate3.5%
Est. Net Income$53K/yr
Affordability Score
102
out of 100
Below national average cost
Salary Converter for St. Louis

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in St. Louis.

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About St. Louis

St. Louis offers some of the most affordable housing among US cities of any size. The city is experiencing a tech and innovation renaissance, with a growing startup scene and strong healthcare sector.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is St. Louis expensive?

St. Louis has a cost of living index of 95.1, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in St. Louis?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $39,880 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in St. Louis and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in St. Louis?

The median 2-bedroom rent in St. Louis is $997 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.