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Missouri has an abundance of natural beauty and friendly communities, which can attract plenty of tourists. Some people who visit want to make these areas the norm by completely moving there. However, you should aim to answer the cost of living in Missouri confidently before making a final decision.
How Much Is the Income in Missouri?
Moving to Missouri will likely involve getting a new job within the state. The average salary in Missouri is $50,477 a year, which is $24 an hour. Berkeley has the highest average wage, though at $79,964 annually.
Keep in mind that total income can still change depending on your occupation and experience. Missourians who opt to commute and work in other states or work from home instead can earn a totally different figure.
How Much Is the Cost of Living in Missouri?
The Show-Me State can be viewed as one of the best states to live in. At $1,930, the cost of living in Missouri is 1.17 times more affordable than the national average. It can go as low as $1,272 though in places like Springfield.
If you are taking care of a family of four, the total can balloon up to $4,623 or more, depending on the state. That said, it’s also key to note that people score Missouri 76 out of 100 when it comes to quality of life.
How Much Are Homes in Missouri?
Missouri is one of the cheapest states to build a house in. The average cost of homes in the state is $258,586, and the median monthly mortgage payment is $932. This can be attributed to the mix of urban and rural life throughout the area.
If you want to consider renting in Missouri instead, there are many available options. The price on average is $1,375 and is considerably more expensive than mortgage. The year-over-year change is also $70 or so, which is key to think about when you’re looking to stay long term.
How Much Are Health Care Costs in Missouri?
Health care costs are relatively expensive in Missouri. A silver insurance plan for 40-year-olds costs $533 in 2025, which is a 4% increase from 2024. The total can still change depending on the tier and your overall conditions.
Many people are advocating for lower health care costs. About 9% of the Missourians remain uninsured, and some even go without care or rationed medicine due to the high expenses.
How Much Are Groceries in Missouri?
Grocery prices are another consideration, as they’re a regular expense you have to cover. In 2024, weekly groceries in Missouri cost $244.43, which constitutes as one of the more affordable states when it comes to this expense. That said, it can still change depending on what you add to your cart, how many people you’re shopping for and more.
How Much Are Utilities in Missouri?
Missouri is one of the states that spends a larger part of its monthly income on utilities compared to the rest of the nation. Constituting 9.28% of one’s income, these expenses average $606 per month or more. The prices are typically above average for natural gas, internet services and water supply.
How Much Are Transportation Costs in Missouri?
Missouri does have public transportation systems like light rail and buses, which can help keep transportation costs down. Operating and maintaining a car is a different story, though, due to the congestion. Rural areas also see rough roads that can cause wear and tear on vehicles. Drivers in Missouri pay around $68 per month in 2023.
How Much Are Education Costs in Missouri?
If you have a child who needs to go to school or you’re taking classes yourself, Missouri is a little more affordable than the national average. Tuition and fees for a public academic institution warrant $9,926 for four years in 2023. There are other ways to finance your education, such as availing of in-state scholarships and grants.
How Much Are Tax Rates in Missouri?
Taxes should also be considered when determining your cost of living. Missouri has a corporate income tax rate of 4.0%, so you should recalculate your earnings after filing. There’s also a sales tax rate of 4.22%, which is relevant if you handle a business within the state. Check the numbers and see whether the goods and services need an increase.
Is It Expensive to Live in Missouri?
Living in Missouri is relatively affordable, especially considering certain factors like groceries and education costs. However, there are more expensive factors in the mix as well. Your chosen city can also affect the final answer for this. For example, Rolla’s cost of living is 4% higher than the state average, despite being 6% lower than the national average.
Missouri’s Rank in Cost of Living
Missouri is viewed as a less expensive destination to settle in, and facts back that sentiment. A survey ranked the state the fourth most affordable in the U.S., beaten only by Oklahoma, Mississippi and Alabama. The study highlights Missouri’s affordable housing, though groceries, utilities, transportation and healthcare were also examined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Missouri?
Springfield is one of the cheapest cities in which to live. It maintains the 20% lower housing costs in its metropolitan-esque space and greenery. You can also assess other rural areas within the state to get bang for your buck when moving in.
What Is the Safest Place to Live in Missouri?
While affordability is important, your safety and security should also be prioritized. Crimes have been declining in Missouri lately, with some cities having zero crime rates. Of those with existing reports, Rock Port has the lowest property crime rate, with a mere 81 incidents recorded in 2022. Glendale has the lowest violent crime rate, with 17 incidents.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Missouri?
Even after moving states, people who want to maintain a lavish lifestyle must seek a larger income to live comfortably in Missouri. Kansas City’s median household income is $65,256, though the cost of living is notably higher than in other cities.
Is It Time to Move to Missouri?
Missouri can have a relatively affordable cost of living despite some pricier aspects like health insurance and utilities. It helps to find a well-paying job that can pay a median income or higher to have a stable move to the Show-Me state.
About The Author
Rose is the managing editor of Renovated and a dedicated freelance writer with over six years of experience in the home and garden industry. Her passion for landscaping and sustainable practices is deeply rooted in her upbringing — growing up in a family of contractors, she was exposed to the world of construction and design from a young age. This hands-on experience fostered her love for nature and gardening, giving her a green thumb and a keen eye for creating beautiful outdoor spaces.
Throughout her career, Rose has honed her expertise in researching and writing about sustainable construction practices, focusing on innovative technologies that enhance the built environment while minimizing environmental impact. She is particularly interested in green roofing, water-efficient landscaping, and integrating native plants in design, all reflecting her commitment to sustainability. Rose's work has appeared in various publications, where she shares valuable insights and practical tips for seasoned professionals and novice DIY-ers.
In addition to her writing, Rose enjoys collaborating with landscape architects and contractors on projects that emphasize eco-friendly design and sustainable materials. She believes that every garden has the potential to be a vibrant ecosystem and works to inspire others to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.
