St. Louis, MO vs Richmond, CA: 66 vs 161

$978/mo ↓ 48%

Median Rent

$1,895/mo ↑ 94%

$55,279/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$90,038/yr ↑ 63%

$185,100 ↓ 72%

Home Value

$650,100 ↑ 251%

$1,013/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$2,015/mo ↑ 99%

293,109

Population

115,396

Detailed Comparison

When comparing St. Louis, MO and Richmond, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 161 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $917/month cheaper in St. Louis, saving renters about $11,004/year.

Median household income is $34,759/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in St. Louis is $185,100 compared to $650,100 in Richmond.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

St. Louis vs Richmond — common questions

Is St. Louis or Richmond cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, St. Louis is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 161 (US average = 100).

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

Median rent in St. Louis is $978/month and in Richmond it's $1,895/month — a difference of $917/month.

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

Median household income is $55,279 in St. Louis and $90,038 in Richmond. Median household income is $34,759/year higher in Richmond.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and California?

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

Should I move to St. Louis or Richmond?

It depends on your priorities. St. Louis has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $978/mo, while Richmond has a cost index of 161 with rent of $1,895/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: St. Louis, MO vs Richmond, CA (2026)

St. Louis

Richmond

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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