Charleston, MO vs Festus, MO

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Charleston is 19.6% cheaper than Festus. With a cost index of 63 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Charleston to Festus should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Charleston is $734/month compared to $935/month in Festus — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Charleston is more affordable at $107,700 median vs $206,200.

Median household income in Charleston is $35,139 compared to $70,085 in Festus (-49.9%). While Festus is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Charleston spend roughly 25.1% of their income on rent, more than the 16% in Festus.