A+
6%
Overall NAT. AVG.
4%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
12%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Affton Missouri National
Cost of living9490100
Groceries9696100
Health care9797100
Housing8877100
Transportation9896100
Utilities9995100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9295100
Household Items9697100
Education & Childcare9695100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Affton, MO

Understanding the cost of living in Affton can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Affton cost of living index is 94, which is 6% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

Everyday expenditures like food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care in Affton are priced in a manner consistent with other areas. This means that residents of Affton can anticipate their daily expenses remaining reasonably similar to those in an average city, thereby supporting a manageable cost of living.

Is Affton Affordable?

Wondering if Affton is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In Affton, for example, the median home price is 13.3% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 10.4% lower than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with Affton boasting a median household income of $101,192, which is 24.4% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Affton?

Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Affton, is 12.5% lower than the national average.

Taxes: Areas with higher taxes, including sales taxes and income taxes, can contribute to a higher cost of living. Paying more tax for everyday household expenses like clothing and food will result in higher costs, as will paying a higher rate of income tax. The general sales tax rate in Affton starts at 4.225% and the income tax rates start at 2%.

Subsidies: Certain cities or states may institute government subsidies or assistance programs designed to alleviate the financial burdens associated with the cost of living for their residents. These programs encompass a variety of support mechanisms, including Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and farm subsidies. Areas that provide fewer subsidies may see an uptick in their overall cost of living.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Affton shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Affton is 4% higher than the Missouri average
  • The cost of living in Affton is 6% lower than the national average
  • Affton housing is 12% lower than the national average
  • Missouri general sales tax is 17% lower than the national average
  • Missouri state income tax is 23% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Affton

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Compare Affton, MO Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$117,236$9,770$2,735$3,517
      Renters$57,529$4,794$1,342$1,726
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Affton, MO, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Affton have a median income of $117,236. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $2,735 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $57,529, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $1,342.

      Missouri Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Missouri 4.225% 10.85%

      Missouri Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Missouri 2% 4.95%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Floraville, IL31991.4%
      Champ, MO3964.1%
      Peaceful Village, MO956931.1%
      Brooklyn, IL4457426.2%
      East St. Louis, IL27,0337722.5%
      Affton, MO19,993946.3%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Matteson, IL19,9901022.2%
      Murray, KY19,988937.2%
      Johnstown, PA19,9807921.3%
      Evergreen Park, IL19,9791054.7%
      South Burlington, VT20,01012323.1%
      Affton, MO19,993946.3%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.