Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
62% cheaper
St. Louis is 62% more affordable than Manhattan. A $75,000 salary in Manhattan is equivalent to $28,723 in St. Louis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Missouri salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manhattan has a housing index of 421 while St. Louis sits at 72 (national average = 100). The median home in Manhattan costs $1,150,000 compared to $175,000 in St. Louis, a difference of $975,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $4,200 in Manhattan versus $1,000 in St. Louis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manhattan scores 115 while St. Louis scores 97.
Healthcare costs in Manhattan (112) are higher than St. Louis (95).
Median household income in Manhattan is $93,651 compared to $45,782 in St. Louis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in St. Louis.
Amazon affiliate links