Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 95.1 in St. Louis, MO in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 7.9% more expensive than St. Louis; housing rents differ by 43% (113.1 vs 79.0). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $69,540 buys in St. Louis, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | St. Louis | Philadelphia vs St. Louis |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 95.1 | +7.9% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 100.0 | -3.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 79.0 | +43.2% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 69.9 | +63.6% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 98.6 | +4.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 91.0 | +16.9% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in St. Louis | $46,360 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in St. Louis | $92,720 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in St. Louis | $139,080 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.