Belton, MO vs St. Joseph, MO

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. St. Joseph is 23.1% cheaper than Belton. With a cost index of 69 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from St. Joseph to Belton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Belton is $1,235/month compared to $884/month in St. Joseph — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: St. Joseph is more affordable at $144,200 median vs $185,400.

Median household income in Belton is $70,525 compared to $55,578 in St. Joseph (+26.9%). While Belton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Belton spend roughly 21% of their income on rent, more than the 19.1% in St. Joseph.