Cost Of Living In St. Louis
Study, live, and budget right in St. Louis.
Table of Content
The cost of Living in St. Louis is surprisingly affordable for a major Midwest city and has become a big reason students choose to study here. The town blends historic neighborhoods, green spaces, and a friendly arts scene while still keeping everyday living reasonable. As you plan your move, understanding the cost of Living in St. Louis helps you budget smarter and avoid surprises. Students quickly notice that the cost of Living in St. Louis varies widely depending on where you live, how you get around, and how often you eat out. With the right planning, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without stretching your wallet.
Average Cost of Living in St. Louis
The average cost of living in St. Louis MO typically sits between $1300-$2100 for a single student each month. This range covers rent, food, transport, utilities, and entertainment while leaving a small buffer for unexpected purchases. Compared to coastal cities, the average cost of living in St. Louis MO gives students a financial advantage and a sense of balance in day-to-day life. Even with inflation, the average cost of living in St. Louis MO, remains manageable with small adjustments like cooking more meals or sharing an apartment. Since the cost of living in St. Louis is lower than in many major metros, students can save money while still having a lively social routine.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
| Expense Category | Budget($) | Mid Range($) | Premium($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | 600 to 900 | 1000 to 1400 | 1600 to 2100 |
| Food and Groceries | 180 to 280 | 300 to 420 | 450 to 600 |
| Transport | 20 to 40 | 40 to 80 | 90 to 140 |
| Utilities and Internet | 90 to 140 | 150 to 230 | 260 to 340 |
| Entertainment | 40 to 90 | 100 to 180 | 220 to 350 |
| Health Insurance | 60 to 110 | 120 to 160 | 170 to 240 |
| Miscellaneous | 80 to 160 | 180 to 300 | 320 to 480 |
Students on a mid-range lifestyle usually spend around $1600 to $1900 each month. Cooking at home, choosing the right neighborhood, and splitting utilities keep the living expenses in St Louis Missouri, within a comfortable range. If you stay conscious of small habits, the cost of Living in St. Louis becomes even more manageable.
Student Housing in St. Louis
Housing is the biggest part of student living costs, and the city offers everything from shared rooms to modern studios. Students who choose to live near campus pay a little more, but the convenience is worth it for many. Rentals with utilities included reduce monthly stress and can save $100 to $200 each month. The St. Louis cost of living varies based on which neighborhood you choose and whether you want privacy or shared space. Since options fill up fast, it’s smart to start searching early, especially for popular areas. If your goal is affordability and comfort, you’ll find plenty of choices in the city's student-friendly districts and many listings for St. Louis student apartments.
Housing by Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | One Bedroom($) | Shared Room($) |
|---|---|---|
| Central West End | 1100 to 1600 | 650 to 950 |
| Forest Park and Clayton edge | 900 to 1300 | 600 to 900 |
| Skinker DeBaliviere | 850 to 1200 | 550 to 850 |
| Soulard and Benton Park | 750 to 1100 | 500 to 800 |
| University City | 800 to 1250 | 550 to 900 |
Choosing shared housing reduces student living costs right away. Living a few minutes outside campus makes the Saint Louis Missouri cost of living lower without giving up comfort. If you want housing tailored to students, amber helps you explore student housing in St. Louis for options designed around convenience and social living.
Food and Grocery Costs in St. Louis
Groceries in the city are budget-friendly for most students. Weekly spending usually falls between $45 and $90, depending on dietary choices and where you shop. The cost of Living in St. Louis becomes easier to manage when you cook at home and buy staples in bulk. Local markets and affordable supermarkets help keep fresh food within reach. Students often meal prep with roommates to cut down costs and reduce food waste. If you enjoy eating out, you’ll find plenty of cafes and diners offering student specials several days a week.
Food Cost Table
| Category | Average Weekly Cost($) |
|---|---|
| Groceries | 50 to 90 |
| cafe Brunch | 10 to 20 |
| Restaurant Dinner | 30 to 70 |
| Coffee | 3 to 6 |
| Fast Food Meal | 6 to 12 |
These habits make a real difference when managing student expenses, especially once the semester gets busy. Cutting a few outside meals per week can lower the cost of living in St. Louis by a notable amount.
Transportation Costs in St. Louis
Traveling around the city is simple and affordable thanks to MetroBus and MetroLink. A single bus ride costs $1, and monthly passes fall between $39 and $78, depending on the type of discount. Students at most universities get subsidized transit passes, which make commuting incredibly budget-friendly. Many neighborhoods are walkable, so you might not need paid transit every day. Choosing biking or walking when possible keeps the cost of living St. Louis at the lower end of the range.
Transport Table
| Transport Type | Average Cost($) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Single Bus Ride | 1 | MetroBus standard fare |
| Monthly Pass | 39 to 78 | Student discounts available |
| Bike Rental per Day | 8 to 20 | Multiple community schemes |
| Uber or Taxi Short Trip | 8 to 18 | For late-night or group rides |
| Walking or Cycling | Free | Great for campus areas |
Over the year, using public transit reduces the cost of Living in St. Louis more than you might expect, especially if you avoid frequent rideshares.
Utilities and Internet Costs
Utilities form a predictable part of the cost of living St. Louis each month. Most students spend between $90 and $230, depending on heating, cooling, and internet providers. Older buildings can lead to slightly higher costs during winter, which is why checking utility history with your landlord helps. Many student-friendly apartments include WiFi and water, making budgeting easier. When shared among roommates, utilities become a small part of your monthly spend.
Utilities Table
| Utility Type | Monthly Cost($) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | 50 to 100 |
| Gas | 20 to 45 |
| Water | 20 to 45 |
| Internet | 35 to 70 |
| Mobile Plan | 25 to 50 |
These numbers keep the cost of living in St. Louis predictable as long as you monitor usage during extreme weather seasons.
Other Essential Student Expenses
Along with rent and food, you should plan for books, printing, gym memberships, and healthcare. These additional costs vary, but can be kept low with a bit of planning. Many campuses offer free or low-priced facilities that help manage overall student expenses. Keeping a monthly buffer comes in handy for unexpected costs during exam seasons or heavy course loads.
Student Essentials Table
| Category | Monthly Cost($) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | 60 to 110 | Required for international students |
| Study Materials | 30 to 80 | Save with used books |
| Gym and Fitness | 20 to 60 | Student discounts available |
| Entertainment | 50 to 120 | Movies, events, outings |
All of these items are part of the living cost in St. Louis Missouri, and understanding them early prevents stress later.
Lifestyle and Neighborhoods in St. Louis
Different neighborhoods offer different experiences and price points. The Central West End is lively and close to cafes, while Forest Park Southeast and University City offer more calm environments. Choosing your neighborhood affects the living cost in St. Louis Missouri, especially if you want restaurants and nightlife nearby. Students who want affordability with character often pick Skinker DeBaliviere or areas near Forest Park. No matter where you stay, the city’s mix of culture and green spaces enhances student life.
Example Monthly Student Budget in St. Louis
Here’s a mid-range student budget that reflects the St Louis Missouri living cost, realistically.
Monthly Budget Table
| Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost($) |
|---|---|
| Rent shared | 800 |
| Utilities and Internet | 140 |
| Food and Groceries | 280 |
| Transport | 40 |
| Entertainment | 80 |
| Miscellaneous | 120 |
| Total | 1460 per month |
If you choose a private studio or downtown living, your total shifts toward the higher range of the cost of Living in St. Louis. Students who cook meals at home and use public transport can keep the St. Louis cost of living comfortably low.
Saving Tips for Students1. Choose flats with utilities included to simplify bills.
2. Use student public transport passes to reduce spending.
3. Buy second-hand books and supplies to cut academic costs.
4. Cook meals at home and do meal prep with roommates.
5. Look for weekday student discounts at cafes and restaurants.
These habits lower the living cost in St. Louis Missouri, without affecting your quality of life.
Conclusion
The Cost of Living in St. Louis makes the city one of the most student-friendly choices in the Midwest. With affordable housing, accessible public transit, and plenty of free parks, students can enjoy a balanced lifestyle. Whether you choose shared housing or explore the cost of living in St. Louis Missouri, options near campus, the city works well for tight budgets. If you’re planning a long-term stay, knowing the cost of living in St. Louis MO, from the start helps you build a lifestyle that feels comfortable and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cost of Living in St. Louis for students?
The cost of Living in St. Louis ranges from $1300 to $2100 monthly, depending on housing and lifestyle choices.
How much does housing cost for students?
Shared rooms usually start around $500 to $800, and studios range from $800 to $1600 across the city, depending on the area.
Are the St Louis living expenses affordable for international students?
Yes. The cost of living in St. Louis Missouri stays lower than in many US cities and fits well with part-time work opportunities.
How much should I budget for groceries?
Students usually spend $180 to $420 monthly, depending on whether they cook at home or eat out.
Do students get discounts on transport?
Yes. Most universities offer reduced Metro passes that lower the St. Louis cost of living even more.