New Orleans vs St. Louis: cost of living compared
St. Louis is 4% cheaper than New Orleans overall. State income tax tops out around 4.25% in LA 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 offers a more budget-friendly environment compared to New Orleans. This difference is largely driven by housing costs, which are noticeably lower in St. Louis. While other categories like food and healthcare show some variation, the significant gap in housing expenses is the primary factor contributing to St. Louis's more affordable cost of living.
Housing
Housing in St. Louis is considerably more affordable, whether you're looking to buy a home or rent an apartment, with a clear price advantage over New Orleans. Both cities feature a mix of historic and newer housing styles. Beyond purchase or rental prices, property taxes and insurance costs can vary, and it's wise to consider these ownership expenses in either location.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation are roughly similar between the two cities, with commutes taking about the same amount of time. Food costs are somewhat lower in St. Louis, as are utilities and healthcare expenses. However, New Orleans has a slightly lower state income tax rate, which could offset some of the other daily spending differences for some households.
Lifestyle trade-offs
New Orleans offers a warm, humid subtropical climate with a distinct cultural pace, known for its vibrant street life and historic architecture. St. Louis experiences a more temperate climate with four distinct seasons, offering a different urban feel and a strong park system. Both cities have public transit options, but personal vehicles are common for getting around.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, St. Louis generally presents a more economical choice, primarily due to its lower housing costs. While New Orleans has a slightly more favorable state income tax, this is generally outweighed by higher expenses in housing, utilities, and healthcare. Your household budget will likely stretch further in St. Louis, offering a different financial landscape.
| Measure | New Orleans, LA | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 92 | 88 |
| Housing index | 74 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 93 | 95 |
| Food index | 95 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 95 |
| Misc index | 88 | 88 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,200/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 26 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.