Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
52% cheaper
St. Louis is 52% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $36,096 in St. Louis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Missouri salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while St. Louis sits at 72 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $175,000 in St. Louis, a difference of $505,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,000 in St. Louis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while St. Louis scores 97.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than St. Louis (95).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $45,782 in St. Louis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in St. Louis.
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