Springfield, MO vs St. Charles, MO

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Springfield is 21.3% cheaper than St. Charles. With a cost index of 73 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Springfield to St. Charles should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Springfield is $920/month compared to $1,186/month in St. Charles — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Springfield is more affordable at $165,200 median vs $280,800.

Median household income in Springfield is $45,984 compared to $85,522 in St. Charles (-46.2%). While St. Charles is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Springfield spend roughly 24% of their income on rent, more than the 16.6% in St. Charles.