Can You Live in Saint Louis for Less Than $1000 a Month? Here’s What You Need to Know

Whether you’re moving to Saint Louis for work, school, or just a change of scenery, you’re likely wondering about the cost of living in this midwestern city. Specifically, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to live in Saint Louis on a budget of less than $1000 per month. The answer is: It depends. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of living in Saint Louis, and how you can make a budget-friendly lifestyle work for you.

The Cost of Housing in Saint Louis

One of the biggest expenses for any city-dweller is housing. In Saint Louis, the cost of housing can vary widely depending on where you choose to live. Generally speaking, the closer you are to downtown Saint Louis and its many amenities, the more expensive your rent will be. However, there are still plenty of affordable neighborhoods in and around the city.According to data from Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $930 per month. However, you can find smaller studios and apartments for as little as $500 or $600 per month in neighborhoods like Dutchtown, Bevo Mill, and South City. If you’re willing to live a bit farther out from downtown, you can find even cheaper options in places like North County, Ferguson, and Florissant.

The Cost of Food and Groceries

Food is another major expense for most people, but fortunately, Saint Louis is a city with plenty of options for budget-friendly meals and groceries. For example, you can find cheap eats at places like Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, Hodak’s Chicken, and Spice of India in the city. Additionally, Saint Louis is home to a number of farmer’s markets and discount grocers where you can find fresh produce and other essentials at lower prices.According to Numbeo, the average cost of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Saint Louis is just over $10. Meanwhile, the cost of groceries for a single person is estimated to be between $278 and $376 per month, depending on where you shop and what you buy.

The Cost of Transportation in Saint Louis

Transportation is another factor to consider when living on a budget in Saint Louis. While the city does have a public transportation system in the form of buses and light rail, many residents choose to drive. Gas prices in Missouri are lower than the national average, which can help keep your transportation costs down. Additionally, there are a number of car-sharing services available in Saint Louis, including Zipcar and Enterprise CarShare, which can be a cost-effective alternative to owning a car.According to Numbeo, the cost of a monthly pass for public transportation in Saint Louis is around $70, while the average cost of a gallon of gas is just over $2.

Other Considerations for Living on a Budget in Saint Louis

While housing, food, and transportation are some of the biggest expenses you’ll face when living in Saint Louis, there are a number of other factors to consider as well. For example, utility costs (including heating and electricity) can vary widely depending on the time of year and where you live in the city. Additionally, Saint Louis has several free attractions and events, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Art Museum, which can help keep you entertained without breaking the bank.

Is it Possible to Live in Saint Louis for Less Than $1000 a Month?

Based on the numbers, it’s certainly possible to live in Saint Louis on a budget of less than $1000 per month. However, it’s important to remember that your lifestyle and spending habits will have a big impact on your ability to stick to that budget. Some tips for living on a budget in Saint Louis include:- Choosing a cheaper neighborhood, even if it means a longer commute or fewer amenities- Cooking at home and eating out on special occasions only- Using public transportation, biking, or walking instead of owning a car- Taking advantage of free or low-cost entertainment options

Conclusion

Overall, Saint Louis can be an affordable city to live in for those who are willing to make some budget-conscious choices. By keeping your housing, food, and transportation costs low and taking advantage of free or low-cost entertainment options, you can live a comfortable life in Saint Louis for less than $1000 per month.

An Insider’s Guide to St. Louis: Discover the Hidden Gems

As a traveler, it’s easy to visit a new city and stick to the popular tourist attractions. But if you really want to experience the heart and soul of a city, you need to explore it like a local. In St. Louis, there are plenty of hidden gems that only locals know about. Here are some of our top picks:

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

The Gateway Arch is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in St. Louis, but there’s so much more to explore. Start your day off with a visit to the City Museum. It’s not your typical museum – it’s a giant, interactive playground where you can climb through tunnels, slide down slides, and wander through mazes. If you’re looking for something more tranquil, stroll through the Missouri Botanical Garden or take a hike in Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States.

For a truly unique experience, visit the Lemp Mansion. It’s a historic mansion that was once home to the Lemp family, who owned the Lemp Brewing Company. Today, it’s a museum and restaurant, but it’s also rumored to be one of the most haunted places in America.

Dining Spots: Taste the City’s Local Cuisine

St. Louis is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of local specialties to try. Start with a St. Louis-style pizza – it’s thin and crispy, with a slightly sweet sauce and Provel cheese. Head to Pappy’s Smokehouse for some of the best barbecue in the city, or try a gooey butter cake from Park Avenue Coffee. For something a little more upscale, try Gerard Craft’s Brasserie by Niche, which serves French-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace the City’s Traditions

St. Louis is a city with a rich cultural heritage. Each year, the city comes alive with festivals and celebrations that honor its history and traditions. One of the most popular events is the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Japanese Festival, which celebrates Japanese culture with traditional music, dance, and food. Every September, the city also hosts the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow, where you can watch hot air balloons light up the sky.

For art lovers, the Saint Louis Art Museum is a must-visit. It features over 34,000 works of art from around the world. You can also explore the Delmar Loop, a vibrant neighborhood that’s home to dozens of galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Local History: Discover Captivating Stories

St. Louis is a city with a rich history. One of the most fascinating stories is the story of the Cahokia Mounds. The Cahokia people were indigenous Americans who built a city near modern-day St. Louis around 1050 AD. The city was larger than London at the time and was home to over 15,000 people. Today, you can visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and explore the ruins of this ancient civilization.

Another fascinating historical site is the Old Courthouse. It’s where the famous Dred Scott case was tried, which was a critical event in the fight against slavery in America. Today, you can visit the courthouse and learn about this landmark case and its impact on American history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to see something truly unique, make a trip to the City Museum’s roof. There’s a Ferris wheel, a giant praying mantis, and a school bus hanging off the edge of the building. You can also take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and see the famous Clydesdale horses up close.

For a more relaxing experience, head to the Mud House. It’s a cozy coffee shop that serves delicious coffee and homemade pastries. You can sit outside and soak up the sunshine or curl up with a book inside.

In conclusion, St. Louis is a city filled with unique and fascinating experiences for travelers. From hidden gems that only locals know about to local cuisine and cultural traditions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Escape the tourist traps and explore the true heart of St. Louis.