Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $56,019
Population: 2,304,580
When comparing St. Louis and Houston, the overall cost of living differs by 8.4%. Houston carries a cost index of 90 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 8% 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 Houston's 82. This 10-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, Utilities, Entertainment.
Houston is more affordable for: Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in St. Louis, you would need $65,060 in Houston to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $108,434.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $56,019 in Houston. Houston has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while Houston scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Both cities score similarly for weather at 5/10.
Job Market: Houston 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. Houston may justify its higher costs with unique cultural amenities that many residents find worthwhile.
