Moving from Columbus to St. Louis (2026)
St. Louis has a COL index of 87 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). You'd pay about 4% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in St. Louis to match your Columbus lifestyle
Based on the 4% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Columbus | Equivalent in St. Louis |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,242 |
| $50K | $47,802 |
| $60K | $57,363 |
| $75K | $71,703 |
| $80K | $76,484 |
| $100K | $95,604 |
| $120K | $114,725 |
| $150K | $143,407 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Columbus vs St. Louis
| Expense | Columbus | St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,553 | $4,447 |
| 1BR rent | $1,250 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $361 | $369 |
| Transport | $62 | $75 |
| Utilities | $155 | $162 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,665 | $2,481 |
Frequently asked questions
Is St. Louis cheaper than Columbus?
Yes. St. Louis has a cost of living index of 87 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). That's about 4% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Columbus to St. Louis?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Louis run about $78/month more than Columbus. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in St. Louis to match my Columbus lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbus, you'd need roughly $71,703/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