Saint Paul is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and slightly higher grocery and heating costs compared to national averages.
Housing Costs in Saint Paul
Housing options in Saint Paul range from historic single-family homes to modern apartments and condos. Rental prices vary by neighborhood, with areas like Summit Hill and Cathedral Hill commanding higher rates. Expect to pay around $1,500-$2,000 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, with luxury units exceeding $2,500.
For those looking to purchase a home, the median price for a 3-bedroom house in Saint Paul is approximately $350,000 as of 2025. However, this can fluctuate significantly based on location, age, and condition of the property. Some key price ranges to consider:
- Older 3-bed, 2-bath homes in established neighborhoods: $275,000-$400,000
- Newer construction 3-bed, 2.5-bath homes: $400,000-$600,000+
- Luxury properties in desirable areas: $700,000 and up
Many Saint Paul neighborhoods have active homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $200-$500+ per month to housing costs. Be sure to factor this in when budgeting for a home purchase.
Utility Costs
Utility expenses in Saint Paul are slightly higher than the national average, largely due to the colder climate and need for extended heating. For a 1,000-square-foot apartment, typical monthly utility costs include:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80-$120 |
| Natural Gas (heating) | $60-$150 (higher in winter) |
| Water/Sewer | $50-$80 |
| Trash/Recycling | $20-$40 |
| Internet | $50-$80 |
Expect higher utility bills for larger homes or during peak heating and cooling months. Many Saint Paul residents invest in energy-efficient appliances and weatherproofing to help manage costs.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices in Saint Paul are about 5% higher than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $350-$450 per month on groceries, while a family of four may spend $900-$1,200. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
To get a sense of local prices, here’s what you might pay for a few staple items in Saint Paul:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.50
- Pound of chicken breast: $4.50
Dining out can add up quickly, with a typical fast-food meal around $9 and a mid-range restaurant dinner for two closer to $50-$70 with drinks. Many Saint Paul residents balance eating out with cooking at home to manage costs.
Taxes and Fees
Saint Paul has a property tax rate of 1.15% as of 2025, which is slightly higher than the national average. For a home valued at $350,000, this equates to approximately $4,025 per year or $335 per month.
Minnesota also has a state income tax that ranges from 5.35% to 9.85% depending on income level. Sales tax in Saint Paul is 7.625%, which includes the statewide rate of 6.875% plus a 0.75% local tax.
Vehicle registration fees in Minnesota are based on the age and value of the car, but typically fall between $100-$500 per year. Drivers should also budget for car insurance, which averages about $1,200 annually in Saint Paul.
Monthly Budget Comparison
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for three different household types in Saint Paul (all figures are pre-tax):
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,200 | $1,750 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $200 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Discretionary | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Total | $2,750 | $4,350 | $6,250 |
Keep in mind these are general estimates and actual expenses can vary significantly based on individual lifestyle and circumstances. To live comfortably in Saint Paul, aim for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $3,300 for a single person, $5,200 for a couple, or $7,500 for a family of four.
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding where to live in Saint Paul, consider factors like commute time, access to amenities, and neighborhood character. Homes in the city center or along major transit lines often come with a higher price tag but can offer convenience and walkability. More affordable options can be found in outer neighborhoods, but may require longer commutes.
Saint Paul is known for its historic charm, with many neighborhoods featuring well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman homes. While these older properties can be full of character, they may also come with higher maintenance costs compared to newer construction. Weigh the tradeoffs between space, updates, and ongoing upkeep when choosing a home.
Access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation is a major perk of living in Saint Paul. The city boasts over 170 parks and is home to several lakes and the Mississippi River, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. Many residents prioritize proximity to green spaces when selecting a neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the cost of living in Saint Paul compare to Minneapolis?
A: Saint Paul is generally slightly less expensive than Minneapolis, particularly when it comes to housing. However, the two cities are quite comparable overall.
Q: Are there ways to save on utility costs in Saint Paul?
A: Many utility companies offer budget plans and energy-efficiency incentives. Weatherproofing, using LED light bulbs, and adjusting thermostat settings can also help manage costs.
Q: What is the job market like in Saint Paul?
A: Saint Paul has a diverse economy with strong healthcare, education, government, and financial sectors. The city’s unemployment rate is typically lower than the national average.
Q: How walkable and bike-friendly is Saint Paul?
A: Saint Paul is considered a fairly walkable and bike-friendly city, with a Walk Score of 59 and Bike Score of 62 (out of 100). Many neighborhoods have sidewalks and the city continues to invest in bike lanes and trails.
Q: What are the top three costs that surprise newcomers to Saint Paul?
A: New residents are often caught off guard by Saint Paul’s high income tax rates, substantial heating costs in the winter, and the added expense of HOA fees in many neighborhoods.
Q: Is it more affordable to buy or rent in Saint Paul?
A: This depends on your individual circumstances, but in general, buying a home in Saint Paul can be more cost-effective in the long run if you plan to stay for several years. However, renting offers more flexibility and predictability in monthly expenses.
Q: What is the sales tax rate in Saint Paul?
A: As of 2025, the sales tax rate in Saint Paul is 7.625%, which includes the Minnesota state rate of 6.875% plus a 0.75% local tax.
Moving to a new city is a big decision. Be sure to compare moving company costs and options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. With careful planning and realistic expectations, you can make a successful transition to life in Saint Paul.