10 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Missouri

Things to Know Before Moving to Missouri

Missouri blends urban culture with rural charm, offering a lower cost of living and steady job opportunities. From the bustling streets of St. Louis to the serene Ozark trails, it’s a state where affordability meets variety. But life here also brings challenges like tornado season, rural healthcare access, and unpredictable weather patterns.

Whether you're relocating for work, education, or retirement, Missouri's diverse regions provide something for everyone. This guide will help you understand what to expect when settling into the Show-Me State.

What You’ll Learn

This guide will walk you through:

• Access to education and healthcare

• Cost of living and housing trends

• Employment opportunities across industries

Overview

Missouri combines affordability with diverse economic opportunities, making it an attractive destination for families, professionals, and retirees. With a cost of living 8% below the national average, the state balances urban vibrancy with rural charm. Key considerations include job growth in manufacturing and healthcare, accessible education, and regional climate variations.

Here’s a More Detailed Breakdown:

Cost of Living & Housing

Missouri’s cost of living is 15% lower than the national average, driven by housing costs 18% below U.S. norms. The median home price is $251,663, with monthly rental rates averaging $1,500. Smaller cities like Springfield and Columbia offer median home values near $253,333, while urban centers like St. Louis and Kansas City command higher prices. Utilities cost 6% less than the national average, and groceries are 1% lower, contributing to widespread affordability.

Job Market & Economy

Missouri’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.7% in early 2025, outperforming the national average. The state ranked second in job growth in 2024, with a 2.8% increase driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate sectors. Key employers include CoxHealth (13,297 employees) and Mercy Springfield Communities (9,238 employees). The automotive and aerospace industries remain pillars, while emerging sectors like biotechnology show promise.

Major Cities & Communities

St. Louis and Kansas City anchor the state’s urban centers, offering cultural attractions, professional sports, and employment hubs. Springfield thrives as a healthcare and education hub, while Columbia leverages its university-town appeal. Smaller cities like Jefferson City (the state capital) and Branson (a tourist hotspot) provide family-friendly neighborhoods and lower living costs.

Education & Healthcare

Missouri boasts top-ranked institutions like Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Missouri. Public schools in districts like Springfield achieve graduation rates exceeding 90%, though rural areas face disparities. Healthcare access is robust in cities, with Barnes-Jewish Hospital (1,278 beds) leading as a Level I trauma center. Rural regions rely on networks like Mercy Health, where provider shortages occasionally limit specialty care.

Climate & Environment

Missouri experiences four seasons, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows dipping to 25°F. The state averages 45–55 inches of annual precipitation, with tornado risks peaking in spring. Coastal regions face thunderstorms, while northern areas contend with heavier snowfall. Environmental initiatives aim to mitigate rising temperatures, which have increased by 0.5°F over the past century.

Culture & Recreation

The state’s cultural identity shines through festivals like the Kansas City Jazz & Heritage Festival and culinary staples like Kansas City barbecue. Outdoor enthusiasts explore the Ozark Mountains, Lake of the Ozarks, and Mark Twain National Forest. Urban parks, museums, and historic sites like the Gateway Arch provide year-round recreation.

Other Notable Considerations

• Taxes: Income tax rates range from 5.3% to 5.7%, with property taxes averaging 1.27% of home value.

• Transportation: Major interstates (I-70, I-44) connect urban hubs, while rural areas rely on personal vehicles.

• Population Trends: Urban centers like St. Louis grow steadily, while rural counties face declines.

• Tornado Preparedness: Residents in tornado-prone regions invest in storm shelters and emergency kits.

Why Are People Moving to Missouri?

Missouri attracts newcomers for its low cost of living, central location, and balanced city-rural living mix. With growing job sectors, family-friendly communities, and scenic recreation, it’s a destination for many types of movers.

Top reasons include:

• Affordable housing market: Median home price around $251,800, per Zillow

• Diverse job market: Strong in agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics

• Four distinct seasons: Hot summers, snowy winters, and colorful autumns

• Low overall cost of living: About 10 percent below the national average, per MERIC

For many, Missouri represents both opportunity and affordability in one central location.

10 Essential Considerations for Moving to Missouri

1. Cost of living in Missouri

Missouri consistently ranks among the more affordable states. Housing and transportation drive the state’s lower living costs, while utilities and healthcare remain close to average.

Typical expenses include:

• Groceries: About 5 percent below the national average, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Healthcare: Slightly below national costs, though access varies by region

• Housing: Median home price is $251,800, with affordable rent in most cities

• Transportation: Gas and public transit are low-cost, especially in metro areas

• Utilities: Close to national averages, with higher heating costs in winter

Budget-conscious movers will find Missouri's affordability a significant advantage.

2. Education in Missouri

Missouri offers a mix of public, private, and higher education options. While urban schools often perform well, rural areas face funding and access challenges. Still, initiatives are underway to improve performance and expand resources statewide.

Highlights include:

• Higher education: Top universities include the University of Missouri and Washington University in St. Louis

• K–12 performance: Graduation rates exceed 90 percent in Springfield and other strong districts

• Public education access: Strong in suburban and urban regions; limited in rural areas

• Technical and trade schools: Provide career pathways in healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing

Families moving to Missouri should research district performance and proximity to higher education options.

3. Housing realities in Missouri

Missouri's real estate is one of the state's strongest selling points. Median home values are far below national averages, and rental rates remain accessible across most cities.

What you need to know:

• Home prices: Typically around $251,800, with lower prices in Springfield and Columbia

• Rental market: One-bedroom apartments average $1,000 in St. Louis and $1,200 in Kansas City

• Rural housing: Cheaper but may lack nearby amenities or healthcare

• Urban demand: St. Louis and Kansas City have tighter rental markets and higher demand

Missouri makes homeownership realistic for a broader range of income levels.

4. Climate and weather in Missouri

Missouri experiences four full seasons, which means varied weather throughout the year. Summers are hot and humid, while winters bring snow and ice. Tornadoes and thunderstorms are common in spring and summer.

Climate quick facts:

• Average summer highs: Mid-90s Fahrenheit with high humidity

• Average winter lows: Mid-20s Fahrenheit, with occasional ice storms

• Severe weather: Includes tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flooding

• Outdoor seasons: Fall and spring are popular for hiking, boating, and festivals
  
  

Weather preparation is key—Missourians often invest in generators, weather radios, and storm shelters.

5. Employment opportunities in Missouri

Missouri's economy is stable and diverse. Major metro areas like St. Louis and Kansas City are job hubs, while rural economies rely on agriculture, education, and tourism.

In-demand industries:

• Agriculture and food production in rural counties

• Biotechnology and healthcare in St. Louis

• Logistics and technology in Kansas City

• Manufacturing and aerospace across the state
  
  

Remote work is growing in suburban areas with strong broadband. Job seekers can access local workforce centers for training and hiring support.

6. Transportation in Missouri

Missouri residents typically rely on cars, especially outside major metro areas. St. Louis and Kansas City offer public transportation, but rural access is limited.

Transportation insights:

• Gas prices: Below the national average, keeping driving affordable

• Interstate access: I-70 and I-44 connect cities across the state

• Public transit: Available in larger cities but limited in small towns

• Vehicle upkeep: Affordable and essential for rural living

Plan for car ownership if you're relocating to any area outside metro zones.

7. Healthcare access in Missouri

Missouri has reputable hospitals in its cities, but faces rural healthcare challenges. Metro areas concentrate specialized services, and residents in remote regions may need to travel for care.

Key points:

• Healthcare costs: Slightly below average

• Major hospitals, such as Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Mercy networks, offer robust care

• Rural access: Limited providers and long travel times

• Telehealth: Growing in rural communities to fill care gaps

Before moving, verify that nearby providers are in your insurance network and assess access to specialists.

8. Grocery costs and local food

Missouri grocery prices are competitive, especially in metro areas. Rural residents may pay more due to delivery and supply chain challenges.

Ways Missourians shop and save:

• CSA programs for fresh produce from local farms

• Discount grocery chains and regional retailers in larger towns

• Farmers' markets are found in most counties from spring through fall

• Home gardening and hunting are traditional in rural communities

Food costs remain manageable for many by shopping locally and planning meals around seasonal goods.

9. Community life in Missouri

Missouri offers a wide range of community experiences. The state celebrates its culture with strong neighborhood bonds, from small-town volunteer days to urban street festivals.

Community life includes:

• Art shows, concerts, and museum nights in major cities

• Local fairs and seasonal festivals in suburban and rural areas

• Recreation hubs like the Lake of the Ozarks and the Mark Twain National Forest

• Volunteer opportunities and civic groups that encourage involvement

Newcomers who attend events, shop locally, and get involved quickly feel connected.

10. Adjusting to Missouri’s culture and lifestyle

Life in Missouri varies by region but shares common values like friendliness, tradition, and community pride. Residents value work-life balance, outdoor recreation, and local customs.

Cultural highlights:

• Barbecue, music, and festivals celebrate state identity year-round

• Church groups and social clubs offer opportunities for newcomers to connect

• Outdoor hobbies like hiking, boating, and camping are popular statewide

• The slower pace of life in rural areas appeals to those seeking peace

Whether you settle in a suburb or a small town, participating in local events helps you feel at home.

Final thoughts

Missouri offers a welcoming mix of city convenience and country comfort. While seasonal weather and rural access may require planning, the state’s affordability and lifestyle perks make it an appealing option for many.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is moving to Missouri worth it financially?

Yes. Missouri’s cost of living is one of the lowest in the U.S., and housing remains affordable in most cities.

What are the biggest challenges of living in Missouri?

Weather risks include tornadoes and ice storms, rural healthcare limitations, and variable job access in smaller towns.

What jobs are available for newcomers?

Opportunities in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, biotech, and agriculture are common, especially in cities.

How do I prepare for Missouri’s weather?

Have a tornado plan, winterize your vehicle and home, and use air conditioning and insulation to manage summer heat.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, living costs, housing prices, job markets, and other local conditions may change over time. Always conduct your research or consult with local professionals when making relocation decisions.