By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $65,781
Population: 2,693,976
When comparing St. Louis and Chicago, the overall cost of living differs by 34.9%. Chicago carries a cost index of 112 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 26% 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 Chicago's 118. This 46-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, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in St. Louis, you would need $80,964 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $134,940.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $65,781 in Chicago. Chicago has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while Chicago scores 4/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: St. Louis has an edge in climate with a 5/10 weather score compared to Chicago's 4/10.
Job Market: Chicago has the stronger job market (7/10) 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. Chicago may justify its higher costs with unique cultural amenities that many residents find worthwhile.
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