Moving from St. Louis to Madison (2026)
Madison has a COL index of 97 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 11% more for the same lifestyle.
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Key differences
Salary needed in Madison to match your St. Louis lifestyle
Based on the 11% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in St. Louis | Equivalent in Madison |
|---|---|
| $40K | $44,598 |
| $50K | $55,747 |
| $60K | $66,897 |
| $75K | $83,621 |
| $80K | $89,195 |
| $100K | $111,494 |
| $120K | $133,793 |
| $150K | $167,241 |
💵 Household income (before tax)
Monthly budget at $75K — St. Louis vs Madison
| Expense | St. Louis | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,447 | $4,259 |
| 1BR rent | $1,300 | $1,650 |
| Groceries | $369 | $384 |
| Transport | $75 | $62 |
| Utilities | $162 | $162 |
| Internet | $60 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $2,481 | $1,938 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Madison cheaper than St. Louis?
No. Madison has a cost of living index of 97 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). That's about 11% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from St. Louis to Madison?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Madison run about $537/month more than St. Louis. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Madison to match my St. Louis lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Louis, you'd need roughly $83,621/year in Madison. 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 · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only