San Antonio vs St. Louis: cost of living compared
St. Louis is about the same as San Antonio overall. San Antonio (TX) has no state income tax; MO tops out around 4.95%.
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 San Antonio and St. Louis is roughly similar, both offering a more affordable experience than the national average. While some categories show minor differences, the most significant factor influencing the overall cost is housing, which is noticeably more affordable in St. Louis. Other daily expenses like transportation are quite comparable between the two metros, with minor variations in food, healthcare, and utilities.
Housing
Housing costs present the most significant difference. St. Louis offers a noticeably lower median home price and slightly more affordable rental rates for a one-bedroom apartment compared to San Antonio. Both metros feature a mix of housing types, from historic homes to newer developments. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary, but the initial purchase price and monthly rent are generally lower in St. Louis, making it a more accessible market for homeownership or renting.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily spending on essentials shows some variation. San Antonio benefits from no state income tax, which can lead to greater take-home pay compared to St. Louis, where residents face a state income tax. Transportation costs are roughly similar, with both metros having comparable average commute times. Food and healthcare expenses are slightly lower in San Antonio, while utilities are a bit more affordable in St. Louis, balancing out some of the other differences.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros involves distinct lifestyle changes. San Antonio offers a warm, humid subtropical climate with mild winters, while St. Louis experiences four distinct seasons, including hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Both are major cities with cultural attractions and outdoor spaces, but San Antonio's character is often associated with its historic missions and riverwalk, while St. Louis is known for its Gateway Arch and Midwestern charm. Both are car-dependent, though public transit options exist.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the financial impact largely depends on housing and income tax. St. Louis offers a clear advantage in housing affordability, both for buying and renting. However, San Antonio's lack of a state income tax can offset some of St. Louis's housing savings, especially for higher earners. Other everyday expenses are quite comparable, meaning the choice often comes down to individual priorities regarding housing investment versus take-home pay, alongside climate and regional character preferences.
| Measure | San Antonio, TX | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 88 |
| Housing index | 71 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 95 | 95 |
| Food index | 88 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 95 |
| Misc index | 85 | 88 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,100/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 27 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.