Cost of Living in Ferguson, MO
Population 18,350 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $46,106, median household incomes in Ferguson land roughly 38% below the US median, a gap that tends to persist across local labor-market indicators. At 6.4%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Ferguson sits roughly 8 miles northwest of St. Louis — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 46% lower than St. Louis' $185,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Ferguson
The median home value in Ferguson is $99,300 — 67% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,066/month, 19% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,106/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.4%, above the national average of 4.8%. Missouri's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Ferguson has a cost of living index of 52 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 48% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Ferguson, MO?
Ferguson has a cost index of 52 (100 = national average). It is 48% below the national average.
What is average rent in Ferguson, MO?
The median gross rent in Ferguson is $1,066 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Ferguson?
The median home value in Ferguson is $99,300 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Ferguson?
The median household income in Ferguson is $46,106 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Ferguson, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Ferguson is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Ferguson, MO affordable?
Yes, Ferguson is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 52 — about 48% below the US national average of 100.
Ferguson at a Glance
- Population
- 18,350
- Median Income
- $46,106
- Home Value
- $99,300
- Median Rent
- $1,066/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
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Missouri Rankings
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