St. Louis city, Missouri

Income Data

-7% vs. Missouri average
$55,279
Median Household Income
$38,947
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$55,279
-7% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$38,947
-1% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
29.9%
income as % of home value
Rank in Missouri
#75 / 115
by median household income

How St. Louis city Compares

St. Louis city$55,279
Missouri Average$59,503
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$55,279
Median Household Income
$38,947
Per Capita Income
$185,100
Median Home Value
29.9%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in St. Louis city, Missouri

St. Louis City Income Below National Median

St. Louis city's median household income of $55,279 falls $19,476 short of the U.S. median of $74,755. This gap reflects an urban economy with lower average earning power than the nation overall.

Below Missouri Average, Dense Urban Setting

At $55,279, St. Louis city's median income runs $4,224 below Missouri's state average of $59,503. As Missouri's largest city, it ranks in the lower-middle income tier statewide despite significant economic activity.

City Income Trails Suburban Counties

St. Louis city's $55,279 lags its suburban neighbors: St. Louis County ($81,340), St. Charles County ($102,912), and Ste. Genevieve ($61,310). This urban-suburban income gap reflects broader patterns seen in major U.S. metros.

Housing Costs Consume More Income Here

St. Louis city's rent-to-income ratio of 21.2% is the highest among these eight counties, signaling significant housing affordability pressure. With median home values at $185,100, many residents must allocate over one-fifth of income to housing.

Navigate Urban Wealth Building Strategically

St. Louis city residents facing higher housing costs should explore first-time homebuyer programs and community reinvestment initiatives. Investing in education and job training can unlock higher-wage opportunities in the region's growing sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in St. Louis city, Missouri?
The median household income in St. Louis city, Missouri is $55,279, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in St. Louis city?
The per capita income in St. Louis city is $38,947, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $55,279.
How does St. Louis city compare to the Missouri average?
St. Louis city's median household income of $55,279 is lower than the Missouri state average of $59,503. The per capita income is $38,947, compared to the state average of $31,011.
What is the per capita income in St. Louis city, Missouri?
The per capita income in St. Louis city, Missouri is $38,947, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is St. Louis city a low-income area in Missouri?
St. Louis city's median household income of $55,279 is below the Missouri average of $59,503. The per capita income of $38,947 is also comparable to the state average of $31,011. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does St. Louis city rank for income in Missouri?
St. Louis city ranks #75 out of 115 counties in Missouri by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $55,279 and per capita income of $38,947, it falls in the middle third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in St. Louis city

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County median: $55,279 per year

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vs. State Average

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vs. National Median

-26%

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vs. National Median26% below

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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.