One of St. Louis’ greatest strengths is its affordability — our free attractions, public spaces, and higher than average salaries make our region an accessible place to live. Compared to many cities in the U.S., home prices too are within reach: House Beautiful this month named St. Louis the #3 Most Affordable City to Buy a Home in 2026.
Right now, while many U.S. cities are experiencing extreme fluctuations in their housing markets, both buyers and sellers can find more stability in St. Louis this year. “We don’t have the vulnerability or the variability that these other markets can have,” David Lemon, a local real estate agent, recently told St. Louis Magazine.
The Bottom Line
St. Louis’ value proposition is solid. Our region’s residents enjoy world-class museums, celebrated institutions, acclaimed food and dining, and wide and varied entertainment options, while at the same time, affordable living and a reliable real estate market.
Writes House Beautiful: “Here, your home payments will only take up 25.6 percent of your valuable income on average, and your household would need to make about $73,000 to afford the typical home.”
St. Louis is a place where you can make a living — and a life.