New York City vs St. Louis
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in New York City feels like approximately $25,557 in St. Louis.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in New York City feels like $25,557 in St. Louis. Moving would decrease your purchasing power by 63%.
New York City
St. Louis
Your details stay on your device. Sharing generates an image only.
Curious what a raise — or a different path — would change?
At $60-80k in New York City, your picture shifts from getting-by toward getting-by.
No city is objectively better. New York City and St. Louis each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
Related comparisons
New York City vs St. Louis — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in New York City or St. Louis?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $2,655/mo in New York City and $995/mo in St. Louis. St. Louis has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in St. Louis to match New York City?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in New York City feels like approximately $25,557 in St. Louis — a reduction of about 63% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between New York City and St. Louis?
New York City is in NY (NY levies income tax) and St. Louis is in MO (MO levies income tax). Source: Tax Foundation 2025.
Which city has more breathing room?
Breathing room depends on your income and housing situation. Use the interactive comparison above to see how each city's picture changes across income bands.