Cost of Living in Missouri
Things cost about ▼ 9% less in Missouri than the national average.
What Things Cost in Missouri
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Missouri offers two genuine metropolitan areas, Kansas City and St. Louis, both with costs well below the national average. Kansas City has reinvented itself with a vibrant downtown, a booming tech scene, and barbecue that needs no introduction. St. Louis has world-class institutions (Washington University, the Arch, Forest Park) in a metro where $300,000 buys a beautiful home in a desirable neighborhood. Statewide, the cost of living runs about 10% below average, with housing roughly 26% cheaper than the national figure. Missouri has been reducing its income tax and now tops out at 4.8%, making it increasingly competitive.
Missouri at a Glance
Taxes in Missouri
Missouri's state income tax tops out at Up to 4.8%. The combined sales tax averages 4.225%, which is relatively low. Property taxes run about 0.88% of home value, which on a $209,000 median home means roughly $1,839/year.
Cities in Missouri
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Missouri
FAQ About Missouri
Yes. Kansas City's cost of living is about 8% below the national average. Median home prices in the metro are around $209,000, and desirable neighborhoods like Brookside, Waldo, and the Crossroads offer homes for $250,000 to $400,000. The 1% city earnings tax applies to wages earned within city limits. For someone moving from a coastal city, the cost savings on housing alone can be $1,000+ per month.
Very. St. Louis has some of the most affordable housing of any metro with a population over two million. Median home prices in desirable city neighborhoods like the Central West End, Tower Grove, and Soulard range from $200,000 to $350,000. The metro suburbs (Clayton, Kirkwood, Webster Groves) offer excellent schools at prices well below comparable suburbs in other major metros.
Missouri has a graduated income tax topping out at 4.8%, recently reduced as part of ongoing tax reform. Kansas City and St. Louis add a 1% earnings tax on wages earned in those cities. Sales tax averages about 8.25% with local additions. Property taxes are moderate. Social Security is exempt for most households earning under $100,000 AGI.