Moving from St. Louis to Worcester (2026)

Worcester has a COL index of 108 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 24% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$469 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
87 โ†’ 108
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300 โ†’ $1,750
per month
State tax
4.7% โ†’ 5%
income tax
COL difference
87 โ†’ 108
24% more expensive

Salary needed in Worcester to match your St. Louis lifestyle

Based on the 24% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in St. LouisEquivalent in Worcester
$40K$49,655
$50K$62,069
$60K$74,483
$75K$93,103
$80K$99,310
$100K$124,138
$120K$148,966
$150K$186,207

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$523/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

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

ExpenseSt. LouisWorcester
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,428
1BR rent$1,300$1,750
Groceries$369$403
Transport$75$78
Utilities$162$190
Internet$60$68
Left after essentials$2,481$1,939

Frequently asked questions

Is Worcester cheaper than St. Louis?

No. Worcester has a cost of living index of 108 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). That's about 24% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Worcester run about $469/month more than St. Louis. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Louis, you'd need roughly $93,103/year in Worcester. 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