Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $75,413
Population: 978,908
When comparing St. Louis and Austin, the overall cost of living differs by 30.1%. Austin carries a cost index of 108 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 23% further in St. Louis.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. St. Louis has a housing index of 72 compared to Austin's 120. This 48-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in St. Louis.
St. Louis is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment.
Austin is more affordable for: Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in St. Louis, you would need $78,072 in Austin to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $130,120.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $75,413 in Austin. Austin has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while Austin scores 7/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Austin enjoys better weather with a score of 6/10 versus St. Louis's 5/10.
Job Market: Austin has the stronger job market (9/10) compared to St. Louis (6/10).
St. Louis is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Austin may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
