Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $56,831
Population: 1,343,573
When comparing St. Louis and Dallas, the overall cost of living differs by 15.7%. Dallas carries a cost index of 96 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 14% 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 Dallas's 95. This 23-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.
Dallas is more affordable for: Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in St. Louis, you would need $69,398 in Dallas to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $115,663.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $56,831 in Dallas. Dallas has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while Dallas scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Dallas enjoys better weather with a score of 6/10 versus St. Louis's 5/10.
Job Market: Dallas has the stronger job market (8/10) 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. Dallas may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
