Moving from Ho Chi Minh City to St. Louis (2026)

St. Louis has a COL index of 87 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 129% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,094 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
38 โ†’ 87
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$500 โ†’ $1,300
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4.7%
income tax
COL difference
38 โ†’ 87
129% more expensive

Salary needed in St. Louis to match your Ho Chi Minh City lifestyle

Based on the 129% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Ho Chi Minh CityEquivalent in St. Louis
$40K$91,579
$50K$114,474
$60K$137,368
$75K$171,711
$80K$183,158
$100K$228,947
$120K$274,737
$150K$343,421

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$871/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Ho Chi Minh City vs St. Louis

ExpenseHo Chi Minh CitySt. Louis
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,447
1BR rent$500$1,300
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$75
Utilities$50$162
Internet$15$60
Left after essentials$3,646$2,481

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Louis cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City?

No. St. Louis has a cost of living index of 87 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). That's about 129% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Ho Chi Minh City to St. Louis?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Louis run about $1,094/month more than Ho Chi Minh City. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in St. Louis to match my Ho Chi Minh City lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Ho Chi Minh City, you'd need roughly $171,711/year in St. Louis. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

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