Is Chicago or St. Louis more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while St. Louis is $950/month. St. Louis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs St. Louis, MO
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and St. Louis.
1
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
St. Louis wins
IL
Chicago
vs
MO
St. Louis
Overview
2,742,119
Population
293,310
$65,781✓
Median Income
-36.2%$42,000
Cost of Living
$1,209
Median Rent / mo
-21.4%$950✓
$277,600
Median Home Price
-40.6%$165,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
4.70%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.68%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
64°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
205 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
40"
Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Who should choose
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is a city in Missouri with a population of 293,310.
Read full St. Louis guide →Chicago vs St. Louis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or St. Louis?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. St. Louis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and St. Louis?
St. Louis gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in St. Louis: 64°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or St. Louis?
Chicago. St. Louis. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.