Missouri, known for its diverse landscapes and Midwestern charm, offers a unique blend of affordability and challenges. Let’s explore key aspects of life in the Show-Me State.
Cost of Living
Missouri boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the United States, with expenses running 8% below the national average. This affordability extends across various sectors:
- Housing costs are 18% lower than the national average
- Utilities are 6% lower
- Food costs are 1% lower
- Healthcare is 7% lower
- Transportation costs are on par with the national average
The overall cost of living index for Missouri is 92, with 100 being the national average[1].
Housing Market
The Missouri housing market remains relatively affordable:
- Median home value: $269,400 (as of October 2024)
- Year-over-year increase: 8.2%
- Average time on market: 32 days
While prices have risen, they remain significantly below the national median of $433,500[2].
Education
Missouri’s education system shows both strengths and areas for improvement:
- Ranked 33rd in education according to U.S. News & World Report
- Significant improvement in recent years, climbing from 48th to 30th place in the 2024 Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT® Data Book
- Strong educational policies and increased investment in Pre-K programs
The state continues to work on enhancing its education system, with a focus on improving 8th-grade math proficiency[3].
Healthcare
Healthcare in Missouri presents a mixed picture:
- Ranked 21st in overall healthcare quality and access
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis ranked as the top hospital in the state for 2024
- Faces challenges in public health
While there’s room for improvement, Missouri boasts some top-tier medical facilities and specialties[4].
Transportation and Infrastructure
Missouri’s infrastructure received mixed reviews:
- The state approved a $14.6 billion Statewide Transportation Improvement Program for 2025-2029
- Plans include widening approximately 200 miles of I-70 to three lanes in each direction
- Ranked 22nd in overall highway performance and cost-effectiveness
The state has made significant efforts to improve its infrastructure, with major investments in road and bridge maintenance[5].
In conclusion, Missouri in 2024 offers a compelling mix of affordability and quality of life. While challenges exist in areas such as healthcare and infrastructure, the state’s low cost of living, improving education system, and ongoing infrastructure investments make it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and opportunity in the heart of America.
Citations:
[1] https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/mo/
[2] https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/housing-market/mo/
[3] https://deepcreektimes.com/2023s-most-least-educated-states-in-america/
[4] https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-best-state-hospitals-2024/americas-best-state-hospitals-2024-missouri
[5] https://www.kbia.org/kbia-news/2024-07-11/missouri-transportation-commission-approves-road-improvement-plan
[6] https://www.consumeraffairs.com/movers/missouri-cost-of-living.html
[7] https://innago.com/missouri-housing-market-trends-forecast/
[8] https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/mo/saint-louis/
[9] https://www.unbiased.com/discover/banking/what-is-the-cost-of-living-in-missouri
[10] https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-cost-of-living-in-missouri/
