Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
St. Louis is 18% more affordable than Charleston. A $75,000 salary in Charleston is equivalent to $61,364 in St. Louis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: South Carolina salaries · Missouri salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 127 while St. Louis sits at 72 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $380,000 compared to $175,000 in St. Louis, a difference of $205,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Charleston versus $1,000 in St. Louis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 102 while St. Louis scores 97. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (104) are higher than St. Louis (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charleston is $65,872 compared to $45,782 in St. Louis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in St. Louis.
Amazon affiliate links