Moving from Denver to St. Paul (2026)

St. Paul has a COL index of 97 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$470/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
12297
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,500
per month
State tax
4.4%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,122
per month

Salary needed in St. Paul to match your Denver lifestyle

Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in DenverEquivalent in St. Paul
$40K$31,803
$50K$39,754
$60K$47,705
$75K$59,631
$80K$63,607
$100K$79,508
$120K$95,410
$150K$119,262

Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs St. Paul

ExpenseDenverSt. Paul
Monthly take-home$4,466$4,122
1BR rent$2,000$1,500
Groceries$388$384
Transport$114$95
Utilities$140$195
Internet$65$63
Left after essentials$1,759$1,885

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Paul cheaper than Denver?

Yes. St. Paul has a cost of living index of 97 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Denver to St. Paul?

On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to St. Paul could save roughly $470/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,640/year.

What salary do I need in St. Paul to match my Denver lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $59,631/year in St. Paul. 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