6 Best Places to Live in Missouri in 2025 (Top Amber Picks!)
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Are you thinking of moving to the Midwest? We'd like to introduce you to the underrated state of Missouri! If you are a student, a young professional, or just someone looking for a lifestyle upgrade that is affordable, the best places to live in Missouri will bring safety, community, and cost of living all together rich with opportunity.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Show Me State |
| Capital | Jefferson City |
| Population (2020) | 6,154,913 |
| Estimated Population (2024) | 6,245,466 |
| Total Area (Sq Mi) | 69,707 |
| Average Weather | Mild winters, warm summers with temperatures ranging from 30°F (winter) to 90°F (summer) |
| Average Crime Rate | 4.1 incidents per 1,000 residents (statewide average) |
Missouri offers everything from the urban feel of Kansas City to the college-town vibes of Columbia. Any of the best cities to live in Missouri will feature a low cost of living, welcoming neighborhoods, and access to schools and job markets.
If you are wondering where to live in Missouri that features lifestyle and affordability, look no further. We are here to help by explaining the top places to live in Missouri for students and young adults.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a vibrant city that combines low living costs with a flourishing cultural scene, making it one of the best cities to live in Missouri. Neighborhoods such as Waldo, Crossroads Arts District, and Westportare home to many students and young professionals, who find the area's atmosphere exciting, with plenty of nearby entertainment options. Kansas City is also home to the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), which has a variety of stunning academic programs located at the heart of the city.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 508,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $933–$1,279/month |
| Universities in/near Kansas City | University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) |
| Cost of Living | 0% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Young professionals, students, and creatives seeking urban amenities |
Living in Kansas City means living with the aesthetic and historic charm paired with modern amenities. Kansas City has various neighborhoods that can meet all lifestyles, whether you're looking for an artistic atmosphere in Crossroads, feeling suburban in Waldo, or anything in between.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is a unique combination of history, culture, and inexpensive options, making it one of the best cities to live in Missouri. The Central West End, Soulard, and Lafayette Square offer unique buildings, nightlife, and a sense of community. The city boasts schools like Saint Louis University and Washington University, providing solid educational options.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 293,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,013–$1,847/month |
| Universities in/near St. Louis | Webster University, Harris-Stowe State University, St. Louis University |
| Cost of Living | 6% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Students, young professionals, and families seeking cultural experiences |
The city's many sights/attractions include the Gateway Arch, museums galore, and lots of parks. St. Louis is home to a variety of neighborhoods, where there are options for everything you might enjoy, be it bustling urban or quiet historic. With a combination of cultural amenities and cost of living, St. Louis is a great place to live in Missouri, particularly for students or young professionals.
Columbia, Missouri
Columbia is a lively college town with the perfect combination of institutional excellence and small-town culture, making it one of the best places to live in Missouri. Columbia is home to the University of Missouri (Mizzou), as well as Stephens College and Columbia College, thus providing a youthful culture. East Campus, Benton-Stephens, and Grasslands are great neighborhoods for being close to campus and local services.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 126,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $800–$1,100/month |
| Universities in/near Columbia | University of Missouri, Columbia College, Stephens College |
| Cost of Living | 5% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Students, academics, and healthcare professionals |
Columbia is great for the arts, plenty of parks, and diverse dining choices. Columbia is a low cost of living city and takes great pride in being a community, making it a great place for students and young professionals. Columbia is a great place to live in Missouri if you are looking for a place to go to school or start your career with an inclusive, welcoming community.
Springfield, Missouri
Springfield gives residents the best of urban living while still being near nature, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Missouri. Neighborhoods, such as Rountree, Southern Hills, and Phelps Grove, have very nice people and offer places to engage with nature/parks. Very affordable housing options.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 126,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $800–$1,100/month |
| Universities in/near Columbia | University of Missouri, Columbia College, Stephens College |
| Cost of Living | 5% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Students, academics, and healthcare professionals |
Residents enjoy various arts and cultural experiences, theaters, museums, music venues, natural land to hike in, such as the Ozark Mountains, and lots of outdoor activities. With a low cost of living and a good job market, students and young professionals can create the balance of fun and hard work. Springfield is great because of all the schools and the quality of the neighborhoods. It's a great place to live in Missouri.
Lee’s Summit, Missouri
Lee’s Summit is a growing suburb of Kansas City that has a great quality of life, which is a factor in Lee’s Summit being one of the best Missouri suburbs for families and young professionals. Neighborhoods such as Lakewood, Raintree Lake, and Downtown Lee’s Summit offer safety, great schools, and community amenities and events.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 104,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,200–$1,500/month |
| Universities in/near Lee’s Summit | University of Central Missouri (Lee’s Summit Campus) |
| Cost of Living | 2% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Families, commuters, and those seeking suburban comfort |
Overall, residents enjoy convenience with shopping, parks, and recreation; it’s all within just a short journey to Kansas City. Lee’s Summit has all the charm of suburbia along with the amenities of a thriving city. For people looking for a little of both, Lee’s Summit is an ideal option because of the interconnectedness of the community. Lee’s Summit also has a great affordable housing model, making it a top living option in Missouri.
O’Fallon, Missouri
O’Fallon is a growing, fast, and family-friendly city that is considered one of the safest places to live in Missouri. The neighborhoods of Dardenne Prairie, WingHaven, and Twin Chimneys are great neighborhoods that are well-maintained with abundant parks and perfect for community involvement. O'Fallon is also near several colleges and universities.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 93,000 residents |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,000–$1,300/month |
| Universities in/near O'Fallon | St. Charles Community College, Midwest University |
| Cost of Living | 5% lower than the national average |
| Perfect For | Families, professionals, and those seeking a safe community |
O'Fallon has many recreational facilities, shopping centers, and dining options that suit many lifestyles. With an outstanding economy and low crime rates, it is a great place to raise a family or start a career as a young professional. The safety of its residents, affordable cost of living, and community involvement make O'Fallon one of the best cities to live in Missouri.
Final thoughts
There are a lot of boxes that Missouri checks—cheap rents, active communities, and lots of opportunity for advancement. Whether you are attracted to the artistic scene of Kansas City, the academic vibe of Columbia, or the safe suburban life of Lee’s Summit, Missouri has incredible places to live.
The best places to live in Missouri are a combination of comfort, convenience, with affordability—these places are ideal for students, grads, and anyone else coming into a fresh start. If you are still wondering where to live in Missouri, the six cities in this guide can suit every lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to live in Missouri?
The best places to live in Missouri for overall safety, affordability, and lifestyle include Kansas City, Columbia, Lee's Summit, and O'Fallon.
Which is the most affordable place to live in Missouri?
Springfield is arguably one of the most affordable areas in Missouri, with low housing costs combined with an overall cheap cost of living.
What are the safest cities in Missouri to live in?
O’Fallon and Lee’s Summit are among the safest places to live in Missouri thanks to their low crime rates and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Which Missouri cities are best for families?
Lee's Summit and Chesterfield are considered two of the best Missouri suburbs for families with excellent school systems and family-friendly communities.
Is Missouri a good state to live in overall?
Yes, Missouri is a great state to live in and has plenty of affordable cities, quality schools, and urban and small town vibes.
Where should I move to in Missouri for work and lifestyle?
Kansas City and Columbia are the best places to live in Missouri based on work opportunities, lifestyle, and culture.