Moving from St. Louis to Lincoln (2026)

Lincoln has a COL index of 86 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$201/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8786
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,150
per month
State tax
4.7%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Lincoln to match your St. Louis lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in St. LouisEquivalent in Lincoln
$40K$39,540
$50K$49,425
$60K$59,310
$75K$74,138
$80K$79,080
$100K$98,851
$120K$118,621
$150K$148,276

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

ExpenseSt. LouisLincoln
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,378
1BR rent$1,300$1,150
Groceries$369$357
Transport$75$48
Utilities$162$152
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$2,481$2,613

Frequently asked questions

Is Lincoln cheaper than St. Louis?

Yes. Lincoln has a cost of living index of 86 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

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

On a $75K salary, moving from St. Louis to Lincoln could save roughly $201/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,412/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Louis, you'd need roughly $74,138/year in Lincoln. 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