Moving from Albany to St. Louis (2026)

St. Louis has a COL index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$132/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9287
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,300
per month
State tax
6.9%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,447
per month

Salary needed in St. Louis to match your Albany lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AlbanyEquivalent in St. Louis
$40K$37,826
$50K$47,283
$60K$56,739
$75K$70,924
$80K$75,652
$100K$94,565
$120K$113,478
$150K$141,848

Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs St. Louis

ExpenseAlbanySt. Louis
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,447
1BR rent$1,400$1,300
Groceries$380$369
Transport$68$75
Utilities$185$162
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,211$2,481

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Louis cheaper than Albany?

Yes. St. Louis has a cost of living index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Albany to St. Louis?

On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to St. Louis could save roughly $132/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,584/year.

What salary do I need in St. Louis to match my Albany lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $70,924/year in St. Louis. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only