Cost of Living in Cape Girardeau, MO-IL

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Cape Girardeau? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — MO-IL levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($992/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Cape Girardeau metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $50,855, or roughly $4,238 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Cape Girardeau metro has a cost of living index of 52.2 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 48% below the national average, Cape Girardeau is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Cape Girardeau represents approximately 17% of gross income. That is well within the 30% rule of thumb that financial advisors typically recommend, leaving significant room for savings and discretionary spending. MO-IL's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.