Moving from St. Paul to Bellevue (2026)

Bellevue has a COL index of 148 vs 97 for St. Paul (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 53% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,177 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
97148
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$2,700
per month
State tax
9.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Bellevue to match your St. Paul lifestyle

Based on the 53% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in St. PaulEquivalent in Bellevue
$40K$61,031
$50K$76,289
$60K$91,546
$75K$114,433
$80K$122,062
$100K$152,577
$120K$183,093
$150K$228,866

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

ExpenseSt. PaulBellevue
Monthly take-home$4,122$4,741
1BR rent$1,500$2,700
Groceries$384$426
Transport$95$100
Utilities$195$120
Internet$63$68
Left after essentials$1,885$1,327

Frequently asked questions

Is Bellevue cheaper than St. Paul?

No. Bellevue has a cost of living index of 148 vs 97 for St. Paul (100 = US average). That's about 53% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Bellevue run about $1,177/month more than St. Paul. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Paul, you'd need roughly $114,433/year in Bellevue. 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