Best Places to Live in Missouri

Chesterfield offers an upscale suburban lifestyle west of St. Louis. It is one of the safest places in the state and features top-rated schools and master-planned neighborhoods. The economy is anchored by corporate offices and research facilities like Pfizer. With premium shopping and the beautiful Butterfly House, it provides a high quality of life for professionals and families.

Liberty is a charming suburb northeast of Kansas City. It is known for its historic downtown and highly rated schools. While many residents head into the city for work, the local education and retail sectors are also strong. It offers a peaceful, safe environment with well-kept neighborhoods, making it one of the most appealing spots for families in the region.

Columbia is a quintessential college town as the home of the University of Missouri. It is one of the most educated cities in the country, with a workforce driven by healthcare and tech. The downtown area has a youthful, progressive energy filled with local shops and arts. If you love the outdoors, the city’s massive network of trails and parks provides plenty of space to roam.

Joplin is a resilient city in southwest Missouri located right on the historic Route 66. It serves as a major logistics hub because it sits at the crossroads of two major interstates. The economy is stable with plenty of jobs in education and healthcare. If you want affordable living and a supportive community with easy access to the Ozarks, Joplin is a solid choice.

Kansas City is famous for barbecue and a passionate sports culture. The local economy is booming thanks to tech, finance, and healthcare giants like Hallmark. You can explore historic districts or ride the expanding streetcar through the urban core. With affordable housing and a welcoming atmosphere, it is a top pick for anyone wanting a mix of tradition and growth.

Springfield is known as the Queen City of the Ozarks. It blends big-city convenience with a relaxed, small-town charm. As the home of Missouri State University, it has a vibrant cultural scene and a job market anchored by manufacturing and healthcare. The best part is the location. You are just a short drive away from the stunning lakes, forests, and trails of the Ozark Mountains.

St. Louis is a historic powerhouse on the Mississippi River. It is home to the iconic Gateway Arch and major employers in biotech and aerospace, including Bayer and Boeing. Residents love Forest Park and the city’s world-class museums, many of which are free. While it offers big-city amenities, it remains much more affordable than most major U.S. metros.

Independence was the hometown of President Harry S. Truman and still keeps that pioneer spirit alive. It sits on the edge of Kansas City, offering easy access to big-city jobs while maintaining a lower cost of living. The local economy relies on manufacturing and healthcare. It is a family-friendly community where you can enjoy four distinct seasons and a historic town square.

Florissant is known as the City of Festivals and is one of the oldest settlements in the state. It is a diverse community with significant White and African American populations alongside a growing Hispanic community. Most people commute to major St. Louis employers like BJC HealthCare. It is a great spot for families looking for affordable mid-century homes and a tight-knit feel.

Kennett offers a quiet, small-town pace in the Missouri Bootheel. Life here is simple and revolves around agriculture and local healthcare. It is one of the most affordable places in the state, which makes it popular for retirees and families looking to escape the hustle of the city. The southern Missouri weather is milder here, and the community is exceptionally close-knit.