Columbus vs St. Louis: cost of living compared
St. Louis is 2% cheaper than Columbus overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 4.95% in MO.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, St. Louis presents a slightly more affordable cost of living compared to Columbus. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are noticeably lower in St. Louis. While other categories show some variation, the significant gap in housing costs is the primary factor contributing to St. Louis's overall affordability advantage, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing budget-friendly living.
Housing
Housing costs are a key differentiator, with St. Louis offering significantly more affordable options for both homeownership and renting than Columbus. The median home price and typical rent for a one-bedroom apartment are both lower in St. Louis. While property taxes and insurance vary, the initial purchase price and monthly rent represent a substantial saving for residents in the Missouri metro.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. While state income tax is lower in Columbus, transportation costs are more favorable there. Food, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses are roughly similar between the two metros. Utilities are slightly less expensive in St. Louis. Therefore, the impact on daily spending depends on individual priorities, with transportation being a notable difference.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, both metros offer distinct experiences. Columbus, as the state capital, often feels like a bustling, growing city with a slightly shorter average commute. St. Louis, with its rich history and iconic Gateway Arch, has a more established feel and a slightly longer average commute. Both experience four distinct seasons, though St. Louis is further south, potentially leading to slightly warmer winters and hotter summers.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, St. Louis generally offers a more budget-friendly environment, primarily due to its considerably lower housing costs. While Columbus boasts advantages in transportation and state income tax, the savings on housing in St. Louis are substantial enough to make a noticeable difference in a household's overall financial picture, even with slightly higher commute times.
| Measure | Columbus, OH | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 90 | 88 |
| Housing index | 71 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 86 | 95 |
| Food index | 92 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 95 |
| Misc index | 88 | 88 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,100/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 24 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific St. Louis home with the True Cost Calculator.