Pittsburgh vs St. Louis: cost of living compared
St. Louis is about the same as Pittsburgh overall. State income tax tops out around 3.07% in PA 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
Comparing Pittsburgh and St. Louis reveals a remarkably similar overall cost of living, with both metros sitting below the national average. Housing costs are virtually identical, serving as a significant driver for this parity. While some everyday expenses like food and utilities show minor differences, the overall budget impact remains quite similar, making other factors more influential in a relocation decision between these two cities.
Housing
Housing costs, both for purchasing a home and renting a one-bedroom apartment, are strikingly similar between Pittsburgh and St. Louis. Both metros offer housing significantly more affordable than the national average. Pittsburgh is known for its diverse housing stock, from historic brick homes to newer constructions, often nestled into hilly terrain. St. Louis also features a mix of classic architecture and modern residences, often spread across a flatter landscape.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses present some subtle distinctions. St. Louis generally offers slightly lower costs for food, healthcare, and utilities compared to Pittsburgh. However, a notable difference arises in state income tax, which is higher in St. Louis. Transportation costs are also somewhat lower in St. Louis. These variations mean that while some categories are cheaper in one city, others are more affordable elsewhere, balancing out the overall everyday spending.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, Pittsburgh is characterized by its hilly topography and a climate with four distinct seasons, including snowy winters. Its public transit system is well-established, offering connections across its varied neighborhoods. St. Louis, situated in a flatter region, experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, and is more prone to severe weather events. Its public transit system also serves the metro area, but many residents rely on personal vehicles.
Bottom line
For those considering a move between Pittsburgh and St. Louis, the financial impact on a household budget appears quite balanced. The overall cost of living and housing expenses are nearly identical, suggesting that other factors will likely weigh more heavily in a decision. While St. Louis has slightly lower costs for some daily necessities, Pittsburgh benefits from a more favorable state income tax structure, creating a near equilibrium in overall affordability.
| Measure | Pittsburgh, PA | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 88 |
| Housing index | 64 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 98 | 95 |
| Food index | 95 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 95 |
| Misc index | 88 | 88 |
| Median home price | $218,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 28 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.