St. Louis vs Washington: cost of living compared
Washington is 73% more expensive than St. Louis overall. State income tax tops out around 4.95% in MO vs 8.5% in DC.
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
Moving between St. Louis and Washington presents a significant shift in overall cost of living. St. Louis is noticeably more affordable across the board, with its overall expenses being considerably lower than the national average. In contrast, Washington's cost of living is substantially higher than the national average, driven primarily by its elevated housing expenses, which create a pronounced difference in household budgets between the two metros.
Housing
Housing costs represent the most dramatic difference. Both buying and renting in St. Louis are considerably more affordable than in Washington. St. Louis offers a mix of historic brick homes and newer constructions, often with more space for the price. Washington's housing market is much more competitive, featuring a denser urban environment with a higher proportion of rowhouses and condominiums, and significantly higher property values and rental rates.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary considerably. St. Louis offers more affordable transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities compared to Washington. While both states have income taxes, Washington's top marginal rate is notably higher than Missouri's. This means that nearly every aspect of routine spending, from groceries to getting around, will be more expensive in Washington than in St. Louis.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves lifestyle changes. St. Louis experiences distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters, and is known for its access to the Mississippi River. Washington also has four seasons, but its climate is generally milder. Washington's extensive public transit system provides widespread access, while St. Louis relies more on personal vehicles, though it has a light rail system. Washington is a dense, fast-paced city, whereas St. Louis offers a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, the financial implications are clear: St. Louis offers a much more budget-friendly environment, particularly regarding housing. While Washington provides a dynamic urban experience and a robust job market, it comes with a substantially higher price tag for nearly all expenses. A household's budget will stretch considerably further in St. Louis, allowing for different financial priorities compared to the higher costs associated with living in Washington.
| Measure | St. Louis, MO | Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 152 |
| Housing index | 64 | 155 |
| Transportation index | 95 | 138 |
| Food index | 92 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 95 | 108 |
| Misc index | 88 | 118 |
| Median home price | $218,000 | $548,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 27 min | 38 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Washington home with the True Cost Calculator.