Is St. Louis or Chicago more affordable?
St. Louis has a median rent of $950/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. St. Louis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
St. Louis, MO vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between St. Louis and Chicago.
4
St. Louis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
MO
St. Louis
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
293,310
Population
2,742,119
$42,000
Median Income
+56.6%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+27.3%$1,209
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+68.2%$277,600
27%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.70%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.68%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
205 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
40"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is a city in Missouri with a population of 293,310.
Read full St. Louis guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →St. Louis vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — St. Louis or Chicago?
Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. St. Louis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between St. Louis and Chicago?
St. Louis gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in St. Louis: 64°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — St. Louis or Chicago?
St. Louis. Chicago. 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.