Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $45,782
Population: 301,578
Median Income: $83,454
Population: 1,423,851
When comparing St. Louis and San Diego, the overall cost of living differs by 98.8%. San Diego carries a cost index of 165 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 San Diego's 210. This 138-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 $119,277 in San Diego to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $198,795.
The median household income in St. Louis is $45,782 compared to $83,454 in San Diego. San Diego has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: St. Louis scores 3/10 while San Diego scores 7/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Diego enjoys better weather with a score of 10/10 versus St. Louis's 5/10.
Job Market: San Diego 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. San Diego may justify its higher costs with excellent weather that many residents find worthwhile.
