Cost of Living in University City, MO
Population 34,655 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The University City cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $285,000, rents near $1,265 a month. The labor market has been unusually tight, with unemployment around 2.5% — below most comparable cities in the state.
University City sits roughly 5 miles west of St. Louis — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 54% higher than St. Louis' $185,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in University City
The median home value in University City is $285,100 — 7% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,265/month, 4% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $76,466/year is 3% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 2.5%, below 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, University City has a cost of living index of 95 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 5% 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
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in University City, MO?
University City has a cost index of 95 (100 = national average). It is 5% below the national average.
What is average rent in University City, MO?
The median gross rent in University City is $1,265 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in University City?
The median home value in University City is $285,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in University City?
The median household income in University City is $76,466 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in University City, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in University City is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is University City, MO affordable?
University City is near the national average in terms of cost of living, with an index of 95 (100 = US average).
University City at a Glance
- Population
- 34,655
- Median Income
- $76,466
- Home Value
- $285,100
- Median Rent
- $1,265/mo
- Unemployment
- 2.5%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs