St. Louis city, Missouri
Income Data
U.S. Census Bureau ACSAt a Glance
Economic Indicators
How St. Louis city Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Income Advisory: St. Louis city
Income Verdict
St. Louis city has a median household income of $55,279 and per capita income of $38,947 — a gap of $16,332, suggesting a higher share of single-earner or non-family households.
Housing Affordability
With median gross rent at $978/month and a median household income of $55,279, rent consumes approximately 21.2% of monthly income — well within affordable thresholds.
Economic Context
With a median household income of $55,279, residents of St. Louis city likely face budget constraints in higher-cost regions but may find cost of living manageable locally. Per capita income of $38,947 is in line with national norms for individual earners.
Neighbor Context
St. Louis city earns approximately 7.1% below the Missouri state median household income of $59,503.
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
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.