Kansas City vs St. Louis: cost of living compared
St. Louis is about the same as Kansas City overall.
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, the cost of living in Kansas City and St. Louis is remarkably similar, both sitting below the national average. While the overall index shows little difference, a closer look reveals variations in specific categories. The primary driver of any cost distinction between these two Missouri metros is the difference in housing expenses, which can significantly impact a household's budget depending on whether you plan to buy or rent.
Housing
When it comes to housing, St. Louis offers a noticeable advantage for homebuyers, with median home prices being lower than in Kansas City. However, rental costs for a one-bedroom apartment are roughly the same in both cities. Both metros feature a mix of historic brick homes and newer constructions. Property taxes and insurance costs will vary by specific location within each metro, but the initial purchase price gap is clear.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses like food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods are slightly more affordable in Kansas City. Transportation costs are also lower in Kansas City, while utilities are comparable between the two. State income tax rates are essentially the same for both metros. These differences mean that while no single category stands out as dramatically cheaper, Kansas City generally offers a slightly lower cost for routine spending.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Kansas City is known for its sprawling layout and a car-dependent lifestyle, though it has a growing streetcar system in its downtown core. St. Louis, with its older infrastructure, often feels denser and more walkable in many areas, and it boasts a light rail system. Both experience four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters, with potential for severe weather. St. Louis is generally older in its urban fabric, while Kansas City has seen more recent growth and development.
Bottom line
For those considering a move between these two Missouri cities, the overall cost of living is quite comparable. The most significant financial distinction lies in homeownership, where St. Louis presents a more affordable entry point. For renters, costs are essentially equal. Everyday expenses like food and transportation lean slightly in Kansas City's favor, but these differences are modest. Your choice may ultimately depend more on lifestyle preferences than on substantial budget variations.
| Measure | Kansas City, MO | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 88 |
| Housing index | 68 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 89 | 95 |
| Food index | 90 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 95 | 95 |
| Misc index | 85 | 88 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 25 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.