Detroit, MI vs St. Louis, MO: 53 vs 66

$1,034/mo ↑ 6%

Median Rent

$978/mo ↓ 5%

$39,575/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$55,279/yr ↑ 40%

$76,800 ↓ 59%

Home Value

$185,100 ↑ 141%

$868/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,013/mo ↑ 17%

636,644

Population

293,109

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and St. Louis, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $56/month cheaper in St. Louis, saving renters about $672/year.

Median household income is $15,704/year higher in St. Louis. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $185,100 in St. Louis.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Detroit slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs St. Louis — common questions

Is Detroit or St. Louis cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 66 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Detroit and St. Louis?

Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in St. Louis it's $978/month — a difference of $56/month.

Which city has higher income, Detroit or St. Louis?

Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $55,279 in St. Louis. Median household income is $15,704/year higher in St. Louis.

How do taxes compare between Michigan and Missouri?

Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Detroit or St. Louis?

It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while St. Louis has a cost index of 66 with rent of $978/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs St. Louis, MO (2026)

Detroit

St. Louis

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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