San Diego, CA vs St. Louis, MO: 197 vs 66

$2,223/mo ↑ 127%

Median Rent

$978/mo ↓ 56%

$104,321/yr ↑ 89%

Median Income

$55,279/yr ↓ 47%

$848,500 ↑ 358%

Home Value

$185,100 ↓ 78%

$2,308/mo ↑ 128%

Owner Costs

$1,013/mo ↓ 56%

1,385,061

Population

293,109

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and St. Louis, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,245/month cheaper in St. Louis, saving renters about $14,940/year.

Median household income is $49,042/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $185,100 in St. Louis.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making St. Louis slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs St. Louis — common questions

Is San Diego or St. Louis cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, St. Louis is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and St. Louis?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in St. Louis it's $978/month — a difference of $1,245/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or St. Louis?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $55,279 in St. Louis. Median household income is $49,042/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Missouri?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or St. Louis?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs St. Louis, MO (2026)

San Diego

St. Louis

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons