Moving from Jackson to St. Louis (2026)

St. Louis has a COL index of 87 vs 79 for Jackson (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 10% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$349 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
7987
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,000$1,300
per month
State tax
4.7%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,447
per month

Salary needed in St. Louis to match your Jackson lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in JacksonEquivalent in St. Louis
$40K$44,051
$50K$55,063
$60K$66,076
$75K$82,595
$80K$88,101
$100K$110,127
$120K$132,152
$150K$165,190

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

ExpenseJacksonSt. Louis
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,447
1BR rent$1,000$1,300
Groceries$346$369
Transport$38$75
Utilities$178$162
Internet$55$60
Left after essentials$2,830$2,481

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Louis cheaper than Jackson?

No. St. Louis has a cost of living index of 87 vs 79 for Jackson (100 = US average). That's about 10% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Louis run about $349/month more than Jackson. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Jackson, you'd need roughly $82,595/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