Cost of Living in St. George, UT

How far does a $70,000 salary go in St. George? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,496 per year — combining federal taxes with Utah's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,575/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the St. George metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $40,604, or roughly $3,384 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The St. George metro has a cost of living index of 110.3 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 10% above average, St. George is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in St. George represents approximately 27% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture.