Missouri, known as the "Show-Me State", is a centrally located affordable state with very low housing costs. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Show-Me State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Missouri for a single person earning the median income of $61,000/year:
Each category shows how Missouri compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Missouri.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Missouri.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Missouri:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Missouri, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Missouri is $235,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $900/month. With a housing cost index of 69, Missouri housing is 31% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Missouri is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Missouri has a state income tax rate of 4.95%. On the median household income of $61,000, you will pay approximately $3,020/year in state income tax ($252/month). This is below the national average — a tax advantage for Missouri residents.
The average single person in Missouri spends approximately $385/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $963-$1,155/month. The food cost index of 95 means groceries in Missouri are 5% below the national average.
Gas prices in Missouri average $2.95/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,770/year in fuel costs.
Missouri healthcare costs are 7% below the national average (index: 93). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Missouri is approximately $5,580 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Missouri averages $800/month ($9,600/year). This is below the national average, making Missouri more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Missouri find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Missouri is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing affordability. Your dollar stretches 12% further here than the national average. The trade-off may include fewer big-city amenities in some areas, but cities like Kansas City and St. Louis offer a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
See all Missouri financial calculators:
Missouri (MO) has a cost of living index of 88, meaning it is 12% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 69. The median rent is $900/month and the median home price is $235,000. Missouri ranks #7 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Missouri is approximately $79,300/year ($6,608/month). For a family of four, aim for $134,200/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($385/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Missouri is $61,000.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Missouri is approximately $900/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,215/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Missouri is affordable compared to the national average.
Missouri is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 12% below the national average and median rent of just $900/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield.
The most affordable areas in Missouri are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Missouri, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Kansas City metro) and more affordable areas. Columbia and Independence tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Missouri for a single person is approximately $385 ($963 for a family of four). Missouri food costs are 5% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Missouri is approximately $130. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $286/month. Missouri utilities are 3% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Missouri has a state income tax rate of 4.95%. On the median household income of $61,000, that is approximately $3,020/year in state income tax. This is below the national average — a tax advantage.