Moving from Mexico City to St. Louis (2026)

St. Louis has a COL index of 87 vs 45 for Mexico City (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 93% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$894 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
45 โ†’ 87
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$700 โ†’ $1,300
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4.7%
income tax
COL difference
45 โ†’ 87
93% more expensive

Salary needed in St. Louis to match your Mexico City lifestyle

Based on the 93% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Mexico CityEquivalent in St. Louis
$40K$77,333
$50K$96,667
$60K$116,000
$75K$145,000
$80K$154,667
$100K$193,333
$120K$232,000
$150K$290,000

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$656/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Mexico City vs St. Louis

ExpenseMexico CitySt. Louis
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,447
1BR rent$700$1,300
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$75
Utilities$55$162
Internet$25$60
Left after essentials$3,431$2,481

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Louis cheaper than Mexico City?

No. St. Louis has a cost of living index of 87 vs 45 for Mexico City (100 = US average). That's about 93% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Louis run about $894/month more than Mexico City. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Mexico City, you'd need roughly $145,000/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