Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
When comparing St. Louis and Los Angeles, the overall cost of living differs by 100%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 50% 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 Los Angeles's 208. This 136-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 $120,000 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $200,000.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $69,778 in Los Angeles. Los Angeles has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while Los Angeles scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles enjoys better weather with a score of 9/10 versus St. Louis's 5/10.
Job Market: Los Angeles 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. Los Angeles may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
