Last updated: October 2026
The cost of living in St. Louis is one of the lowest among major U.S. cities, mainly because housing is cheap. For the city of St. Louis, the Census Bureau reports a median gross rent of $997 and a median home value of $197,500, though the median household income is also lower at $56,160. A single renter should plan on roughly $2,000 to $2,800 a month for rent, bills, food and transport before taxes and savings.
Cost of Living in St. Louis at a Glance
Rent and home values come from the Census Bureau for St. Louis city. The other lines are rough planning estimates for one adult renting.
| Expense | Typical monthly range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | $900 – $1,400 | Census median gross rent is $997 for all rentals |
| Utilities and internet | $170 – $340 | Summers are hot, winters cold |
| Groceries | $300 – $450 | Estimate for one adult cooking at home |
| Transport | $300 – $700 | Most residents drive |
| Health care | $150 – $400 | Depends on employer coverage |
| Total before taxes and savings | about $2,000 – $2,800 | Estimate, not an official figure |
Monthly Budget by Household Type
The city averages 1.92 people per household (Census, 2020-2024), which reflects many single-person households. A couple sharing a two-bedroom can split rent and utilities, so the cost per person drops. A family with children needs to budget for child care, which varies by center and age group.
Rent, Home Values and Mortgage Costs
The median owner-occupied home value is $197,500 (Census, 2020-2024), far below large metros. Keep in mind the St. Louis metro area includes many suburbs and St. Louis County, which can have higher prices than the city itself. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development publishes fair market rents at huduser.gov.
For other Midwest comparisons, see our guides to Kansas City and Cincinnati.
Groceries
Grocery prices are near national norms. Discount grocers and warehouse clubs lower the cost of staples. The city also has neighborhood markets and farmers markets for fresh produce.
Utilities and Household Bills
Expect electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash and internet. Older brick homes can be costly to heat and cool. Ask a landlord which utilities are included and request recent bills before you sign.
Health Care Costs
St. Louis has large hospital systems and medical schools, which supports access. Your cost depends mostly on your plan, so compare premiums, deductibles and networks during open enrollment.
Driving and Public Transportation
Most households own a car. Metro Transit runs buses and MetroLink light rail, which can reduce car costs if you live and work along those routes. Check current fares at metrostlouis.org.
Everyday Goods and Lifestyle
Everyday services and entertainment are generally below big-city prices. Free options include Forest Park, with its museums, zoo and trails.
Salary and Taxes
Keeping housing near 30% of gross income, a $900 to $1,400 rent suggests roughly $36,000 to $56,000 a year for a single renter. That is a rule of thumb, not an official threshold. The city median household income is $56,160.
Missouri has a state income tax, and St. Louis city also charges a 1% earnings tax on residents and people who work in the city. Confirm current rules with the Missouri Department of Revenue and the City of St. Louis. The MIT Living Wage Calculator shows estimates for local households.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in St. Louis per month?
A single renter should plan on roughly $2,000 to $2,800 a month for rent, utilities, groceries, transport and health care, before taxes and savings. This is an estimate; the Census Bureau lists a median gross rent of $997 for St. Louis city.
Is St. Louis cheap to live in?
Yes, compared with most large U.S. cities. The Census Bureau lists a median home value of $197,500 and a median household income of $56,160 for St. Louis city (2020-2024).
What salary do you need to live in St. Louis?
Keeping housing near 30% of gross income, a $900 to $1,400 rent suggests roughly $36,000 to $56,000 a year for a single renter. The city median household income is $56,160 (Census, 2020-2024).
Does St. Louis have an earnings tax?
Yes. St. Louis city charges a 1% earnings tax on residents and on people who work in the city. Confirm current rules with the City of St. Louis.
