When studying abroad, it is essential to know the cost of living in the city. Today, I will provide details about the living cost in St. Louis, Missouri. I hope to provide you with more detailed and intimate help when choosing a university to study.
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Education
There are two famous universities in St. Louis: Washington University in St. Louis and Saint Louis University. Different schools and different majors can lead to slightly different college costs. Here are the tuition fees of the two universities:
| university | Local Student Tuition Fee(dollar/year) | International Student Tuition Fee(dollar/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Washington University in St. Louis | Undergraduate $30,875 | Undergraduate $55,996 |
| Graduate $61,750 | Graduate $43,348 | |
| Saint Louis University | Undergraduate $26,130 | Undergraduate $26,130 |
| Graduate $21,900 | Graduate $18,500 |
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Student Housing
Off-campus Living: Because the number of on-campus student housing is limited and there are certain accommodation conditions, most international students choose off-campus student housing. Off-campus student housing in St. Louis can meet their living preferences and help them find a house that fits their budget. Because housing prices are influenced by where you live and your surroundings, I’ll give you a rough idea: Apartments near the university can cost between $1,500 and $2,000 per month. Apartments far from the campus can cost between $500 and $1,500 a month.
Finding affordable student housing that meets their requirements is challenging for international students coming to St. Louis for the first time. Some professional intermediary platforms can provide one-stop rental services to help you find a satisfactory room. For example, uhomes.com offers you fantastic rooms to rent.
On-campus Living: Accommodation costs vary according to the student’s grade level and room type. At St. Louis University, for example, regular single and double rooms cost about $7,283 per year, and deluxe double rooms cost about $6,497 per year. It would help if you looked for a dormitory that fits your budget and requirements based on the university’s published fees.
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Meal
The price of a meal in St. Louis will also vary depending on the type of meal. Here are some rough estimates:
Cooking for Yourself: Cooking for yourself can save you a lot. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and other ingredients can cost $401.18 monthly.
Eating Outside: You must prepare a larger budget to eat out daily. If you eat at cheap restaurants every day, you’ll spend about $22.50 per meal. If you’re dining with friends, a three-course meal for two will cost about $60.
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Transport
| Transportation | Fee |
|---|---|
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | $2.5 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | $78 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | $3.5 |
| Taxi 1 mile (Normal Tariff) | $2.5 |
| Gasoline (1 gallon) | $3.22 |
You can find the right way to travel according to your budget. Subways can save time in traffic jams and reduce travel costs, and taxi travel can improve the travel experience. Regardless of the mode of travel, you can search the website for appropriate payment methods and offers.
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Daily Life
Entertainment and Recreation: St. Louis has a lot of entertainment, such as gyms, movie theatres, etc. If you’re into fitness, that’s $28.33 a month. It costs about $12 per person to see a movie. If you like to play tennis, tennis courts can be rented for $20 an hour on weekends. So, add in other entertainment, and you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $300 a week. Everyone has different eating habits and purchasing standards for food, so the monthly cost of food is different. Generally, food can cost between $30 and $50 a week. This includes fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, drinks, and snacks for daily needs.
Clothing and Beauty: Everyone’s needs vary regarding apparel and beauty. Here, I’ll give you a reference. At chains like Zara and H&M, a summer dress can cost about $50. A pair of mid-range Nike running shoes costs about $80. A pair of men’s business shoes costs about $100. All the prices I have listed are in the middle range, so you can use them as a simple reference.
Others: Other expenses depend on each person’s daily living habits, including haircuts, household supplies, etc. Monthly payments can range from $60 to $150.
Living Cost in St. Louis Missouri: Utilities
| Utilities (Monthly) | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment | $190.25 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | $42.22 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $63.29 |
The bills of the rented apartments need to be paid according to the actual situation. The data here is for reference only.
For cell phone plans in the St. Louis area, you can choose from five mobile Wireless carriers listed below: Mint, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, and AT&T Wireless. Their products are of comparable quality and can give you a good service experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing the living cost in St. Louis, Missouri, is essential to making informed financial planning and lifestyle choices. Individuals can get a comprehensive picture of the economic situation in this vibrant city by delving into the intricate details of costs such as housing, utilities, transportation, and groceries. With this knowledge, international students can manage their budgets more effectively and confidently shape their future. Remember, watching your expenses isn’t just about managing money; It’s about empowering yourself to make thoughtful choices that pave the way for a safe and fulfilling life in St. Louis.
FAQ
Is it expensive to live in St. Louis?
Living in St. Louis presents a mixed bag of living costs, with affordability varying across different aspects such as housing, utilities, and daily expenses. While specific fees may be higher than national averages, the overall cost of living can still be manageable for those seeking a diverse urban environment.
What is a good salary in St. Louis?
Depending on lifestyle preferences and family size, a median income range of $50,000 to $70,000 can offer financial stability and opportunities for growth in this vibrant urban setting. A good salary in St. Louis provides a comfortable standard of living while allowing individuals to save for the future and enjoy the city’s offerings.
Is St. Louis a low income city?
While challenges like concentrated poverty exist, St. Louis also presents opportunities for growth and resilience. Through community support, education initiatives, and economic development, St. Louis strives to uplift its residents and create a more prosperous future for all.
