Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
16% cheaper
St. Louis is 16% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $63,084 in St. Louis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Missouri salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while St. Louis sits at 72 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $175,000 in St. Louis, a difference of $135,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,000 in St. Louis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while St. Louis scores 97. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than St. Louis (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $45,782 in St. Louis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in St. Louis.
Amazon affiliate links