With its central location, thriving economy, and well-ranked school systems, Missouri suits people from all walks of life. Its diverse cities include bustling commercial centers and vacation hot spots with a more relaxed pace. Consider making one of these fantastic Missouri cities your new home.
Is Missouri a good place to live?
Missouri can be a great place to live for many people. It offers a mix of urban and rural areas, affordable housing options, a lower cost of living compared to some other states, and a diverse range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The state is known for its friendly residents, vibrant music scene, and delicious cuisine. One of the key advantages of living in Missouri is its affordability. The cost of living in Missouri is generally lower compared to many other states. Housing prices, rental rates, and everyday expenses tend to be more budget-friendly, allowing residents to enjoy a good quality of life without breaking the bank.
Missouri offers a diverse range of communities, from bustling cities to charming small towns and picturesque rural areas. Whether you prefer the vibrant urban atmosphere of cities like St. Louis and Kansas City or the tranquil beauty of towns like Columbia or Branson, Missouri has a community to suit various lifestyles and preferences. We’ve rated the best places to live in Missouri based on median rent prices, points or interest, education, health care, and population change in the last year. Here’s what makes each of these cities a great place to live:
1. Springfield
- Population change: D
- Median rent: B
- Points of interest: B
- Education: B
- Health care: B
As Missouri’s third-most populous city, Springfield gets the balance right. It’s got all the amenities people expect from a big city, including quality health care from the nationally ranked Mercy Hospital and leading attractions like Dickerson Park Zoo and the Route 66 site. It also borders the Ozarks, so you can easily access hiking trails and fishing spots. Nearby farms see Springfield’s food scene focusing on fresh. Taste their wares at local restaurants like Farmers Gastropub and Rise or the Farmers Market of the Ozarks. Springfield remains affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment typically costing around $800.
2. Kansas City
- Population change: C
- Median rent: D
- Points of interest: A
- Education: A
- Health care: A
Kansas City is more expensive, with a typical one-bedroom apartment costing $1,129 per month. Those A-grade ratings let you know it’s worth paying extra for. With a population of more than 50,800, there are around three times as many people and many more opportunities for fun on Kansas City’s Missouri side. Its creative vibe shines through with its colorful murals, quirky boutiques, and innovative restaurants. For eateries pushing the envelope, try The Antler Room, Lotus Hot Pot & Grill, or Clay & Fire.
3. Blue Springs
- Population change: A
- Median rent: A
- Points of interest: D-
- Education: F
- Health care: D
For a more affordable option, consider Blue Springs. Its location 19 miles southeast of Kansas City is convenient for commuters and leisure seekers, but the typical one-bedroom apartment here costs just $950 monthly. It’s only got around a 10th of the population, so you won’t get lost in the crowd. While you’ll probably shop in Kansas City, Blue Springs has decent restaurants, including Sinclair’s Restaurant and Tuscany’s Italian Restaurant. Blue Surf Bay, Lunar Bowl, and Burrus Old Mill Park offer local family fun.
4. Columbia
- Population change: C
- Median rent: B
- Points of interest: C
- Education: C
- Health care: C
Columbia’s central location and low rental prices are key selling points. Its median rent of $700 a month for a one-bedroom apartment is much lower than comparable units in St. Louis or Kansas City, both around two hours away. Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia College, and Stephens College, this proud college town has a youthful spirit. It’s also popular with families who appreciate cultural facilities like the Missouri Theater, Jesse Auditorium, and the University of Missouri Museum of Art and Archaeology.
5. Independence
- Population change: B
- Median rent: C
- Points of interest: C
- Education: C
- Health care: C
Just 10.6 miles east of Kansas City, Independence offers small-town living near big-city facilities. It’s more affordable, with the typical one-bedroom apartment costing $750 per month, and it has a rich history celebrated through local attractions like the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, National Frontier Trails Museum, and Bingham-Waggoner Mansion & Estate. Nightlife is surprisingly good its size, with Erin’s Pub and Score Sports Bar & Grill open past midnight.
6. St. Louis
- Population change: F
- Median rent: C
- Points of interest: B
- Education: B
- Health care: B
The Gateway Arch welcomes you to St. Louis, a bustling city on the Mississippi’s west bank. Only Kansas City has more people, but with more than 100 parks, you can always find space for yourself. Residents love the finer things, including art and food. While American comfort food is often on the menu, you can taste the flavors of the world at Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant, Himalayan Yeti, and Sameem Afghan Restaurant. Budget around $950 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in St. Louis.
What locals love about living in St. Louis
“The best thing about living in St. Louis is definitely the City Museum. It’s such a treasure – a fun time for children and adults and absolutely a must-see for anyone living in or visiting St. Louis. And don’t miss out on the Tower Grove Farmer’s Market where you can get fresh produce and immediately have a picnic in the park after.”
Ally P.
7. O’Fallon
- Population change: A
- Median rent: F
- Points of interest: D-
- Education: D
- Health care: D
If you really love the finer things, consider O’Fallon. One of Missouri’s most upscale cities, it has a strong business community and some of the state’s safest neighborhoods. You’ll spend around $1,420 each month on a one-bedroom place, but living here is a lot of fun, with Alligator Creek Aquatic Center, the adventure playground at O’Day Park, and Fort Disc Golf Course encouraging you to spend time outdoors. There are also several annual community events, including the O’Fallon Jamming Concert Series, Food Truck Frenzy, and Celebration of Lights.
8. Lee’s Summit
- Population change: B
- Median rent: D
- Points of interest: D-
- Education: D
- Health care: F
Lee’s Summit, 22 miles southeast of Kansas City, is another excellent option if you want to be close, but not too close, to Missouri’s largest city. Staying active is easy here, with five community centers, 21 trails, and plenty of parks. During summer, beat the heat at Summit Waves. Downtown is small but vibrant, with a farmers market, Fourth Fridays Art Walks, and great shopping and dining options. As for rent, a one-bedroom apartment costs around $963 per month.
Frequently asked questions
Missouri offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other states. Housing prices, rental rates, and everyday expenses tend to be lower, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking affordability.
Missouri has a diverse job market with opportunities in various industries. Healthcare, manufacturing, education, agriculture, technology, and finance are among the key sectors contributing to the state’s economy.
Missouri has a varied climate, with humid continental characteristics. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer mild and pleasant temperatures, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
Missouri has a rich cultural heritage, blending influences from various communities and historical events. The state is known for its music traditions, including jazz, blues, and country. It is also home to notable cultural landmarks, such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Kansas City jazz scene.
Missouri has a well-established education system. The state is home to several reputable colleges and universities, including the University of Missouri system. There are also quality K-12 school districts throughout the state, offering a range of educational options for families.
Final thoughts
With a low cost of living, strong economy, and diverse cities, Missouri may be one of America’s most underrated states. Browse available apartments and start making plans to make one of the cities above your new home.
Methodology
- 1-bedroom median rent price – Zumper.com
- Population change – American Community Survey 2021 and 2019
- Stores, schools, entertainment, restaurant, transportation – OpenStreetMap
To determine the best places to live in Missouri we analyzed data on seven key metrics, including median 1-bedroom rent prices, population change, and the quantity of stores, schools, healthcare, entertainment, and restaurants. 1-bedroom rent prices accounted for 30 percent of the weighted grade. Population change accounted for 20 percent. Stores, schools, healthcare, entertainment, and restaurants accounted for ten percent each.
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