By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing St. Louis and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 3.6%. San Antonio carries a cost index of 86 compared to St. Louis's 83, meaning your dollar stretches 3% 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 San Antonio's 78. This 6-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in St. Louis.
St. Louis is more affordable for: Housing, Utilities, Entertainment.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Food & Groceries, Healthcare, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in St. Louis, you would need $62,169 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $103,614.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. San Antonio has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Antonio enjoys better weather with a score of 6/10 versus St. Louis's 5/10.
Job Market: Both cities have comparable job markets at 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. San Antonio may justify its higher costs with unique cultural amenities that many residents find worthwhile.
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