Cost of Living MO vs IL (St. Louis, O'Fallon: real estate, car registration, how much)

[Kassad]

I was wondering if anyone can comment on if there is enough difference in the cost of living between the two states that it should be factored in when deciding which state to live in.

For instance I think that if someone were going to be registering a brand new, or late model car then IL is definately cheaper; but maybe I'm wrong. I read somewhere that each state computes the annual car registration differently and it definately favors IL residents who live in O'Fallon/Shiloh/Belleville as opposed to those who live in Soulard/CWE/Tower groves/etc areas.

Are taxes higher in MO?

[flynavyj]

Depends on what taxes you're talking about. Real Estate tends to be cheaper in IL, as far as purchasing a house, however real estate taxes are significantly higher in IL than in MO. Personal property taxes suck here in Missouri, but as you stated, depending on the type of vehicle you own the tax will vary. We've got two "newish" cars, an 05 Grand Am, and an 06 Jetta and the property taxes on them isn't THAT bad, but i can't remember the amount. I've got 1 older car (mid 80's coupe) and a couple motorcycles and the taxes on all of them is essentially pennies.

I've been jaded against IL forever though, but i was born on the Missouri side...IL people often have the same thing, but against MO. I'm not a huge fan of IL (liberal) politics, or the "chicago machine". If you're into firearms i know IL is also a tad more restrictive than MO as well, which can be a factor for some people.

[aragx6]

They're really basically a wash. Northern Chicago is much more expensive and has all-around higher taxes, but the southern end of the state isn't going to be a significant difference from the MO side. I'd choose an area where you'll feel at home and from which your commute will be easy.

[flynavyj]

Eh, i agree that they're simply going to get "Their" (read govt) money how they can. But i think home prices are significantly cheaper in IL (St. Louis Metro) for the amount of home you get in comparison to St. Louis County. Taxes however are significantly steeper over there. If you're former military, retirement is very different for Illinois vs Missouri with the favor being towards Illinois.

[coolas70degrees]

I live in Belleville and the COL is a bit more over here than St Louis, things like gas is always a bit higher, this area, OFallon/Belleville are still doing well because of the jobs at the AFB and government workers who commute into St Louis (me).

I think the Illinois side of the river is just a far better deal.

[IDASpaceman]

Retired Military here...IL hands down. Best of both worlds--get to enjoy StL, but keep the State off your pension.

[Kassad]

Thanks for the comments. So can anyone reply who has a relatively newer car (2009 or newer) as far as how much they are charged to renew their registration every year? I'd like to hear from MO and IL peeps.

Thanks