Moving from Louisville to St. Paul (2026)

St. Paul has a COL index of 97 vs 88 for Louisville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 10% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$294 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8897
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,500
per month
State tax
4%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,491$4,122
per month

Salary needed in St. Paul to match your Louisville lifestyle

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

Your salary in LouisvilleEquivalent in St. Paul
$40K$44,091
$50K$55,114
$60K$66,136
$75K$82,670
$80K$88,182
$100K$110,227
$120K$132,273
$150K$165,341

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

ExpenseLouisvilleSt. Paul
Monthly take-home$4,491$4,122
1BR rent$1,300$1,500
Groceries$361$384
Transport$60$95
Utilities$162$195
Internet$60$63
Left after essentials$2,548$1,885

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Paul cheaper than Louisville?

No. St. Paul has a cost of living index of 97 vs 88 for Louisville (100 = US average). That's about 10% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Paul run about $294/month more than Louisville. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Louisville, you'd need roughly $82,670/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