What is the cost of living in Missouri?
This article takes you through everything you need to know, from tax rates to healthcare costs.
If Missouri is at the top of your list, here are some current statistics related to the cost of living in the state that could help you make up your mind.
Summary
Missouri is the sixth cheapest state to live in, regularly ranking among the states with the lowest cost of living.
The average monthly cost of living in Missouri for a single person is approximately $1,957.
The average home value in Missouri is estimated to be around $227,347.
People living in Missouri can expect to pay just over $300 each month on groceries and food.
Speak to a financial advisor about getting and staying on top of your finances.
What is the average cost of living in Missouri?
Missouri is home to over 6.1 million people. The state has the lowest cost of living in the US.
According to data gathered in 2022 from MERIC, the Mississippi Economic Research and Information Center, the state ranks 6th in a list of states with the lowest to the highest cost of living.
What is the average monthly cost of living in Missouri?
According to LivingCost, the average monthly cost of living in Missouri for a single person is approximately $1,957. This includes costs for rent, utilities, food, and transport. For a family of four, the monthly cost of living rises to just over $4,800.
However, it’s important to note that these figures will change depending on where you live in Missouri. Naturally, rural areas in Missouri are less expensive, while in the larger metro areas, you can expect to pay more for goods and services.
How much does housing cost in Missouri?
As of March 2023, the average home value in Missouri is estimated to be around $227,347, according to the Zillow Home Value Index as of March 2023.
It’s important to note that housing prices can significantly differ across various regions within the state. Here are some examples of typical home prices based on Zillow's data:
| City | Average Home Value |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $228,545 |
| St. Louis | $163,503 |
| Springfield | $222,615 |
| Columbia | $281,112 |
| Independence | $190,815 |
The monthly rental price ranges across the state for those considering renting in Missouri. For example, the average apartment rent in Saint Louis is $1,151.
How much do utilities cost in Missouri?
Utility costs play a significant role in Missouri's overall cost of living. According to Forbes, the average monthly cost is around $447.
| Utility | Average cost in Missouri |
|---|---|
| Energy bill | $118.55 |
| Monthly water bill | $39 |
| Internet | $20 |
| Natural gas | $108 |
| Phone bill | $114 |
| Streaming | $47.50 |
How much do groceries and food cost in Missouri?
When it comes to groceries and food costs, Missouri generally aligns with prices found elsewhere in the United States.
According to Zippia, those in Kansas City pay over $312 on average each month.
According to 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average spending on food at home is $5,259 annually, or about $438 per month for US households.
How much does transport cost in Missouri?
Transportation costs, including gas prices and vehicle maintenance, impact Missouri's overall cost of living.
According to MIT, a single adult with no children can expect to pay upwards of $5,300.
Gas prices in Missouri are typically in and around the national average. At the time of writing, Missouri was below the national average. These prices fluctuate over time.
It is also worth noting that prices can vary across different regions within the state.
How much is healthcare in Missouri?
Understanding healthcare expenses is crucial when considering the cost of living.
The specific healthcare costs in Missouri can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and individual circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to research and consult with healthcare providers and insurance companies to obtain accurate cost estimates.
MIT estimates:
| Scenario | Annual healthcare expenditure |
|---|---|
| One adult, no children | $3,225 |
| One adult, one child | $9,700 |
| One adult, two children | $9,710 |
| Two adults (one working), no children | $6,531 |
| Two adults (one working), one child | $9,710 |
| Two adults (one working), two children | $9,635 |
| Two adults (two working), no children | $6,531 |
| Two adults (two working), one child | $9,710 |
| Two adults (two working), two children | $9,635 |
Check out the average cost of health insurance in the US here.
How much does childcare cost in Missouri?
Families in Missouri currently pay around $7,044 per year for childcare for one child. This figure doubles for two children.
However, it's important to note that this figure can vary across the state.
How much tax will I pay in Missouri?
Missouri’s state income tax rate works on a graduated system, ranging between 0% and 5.4%.
Here's a comparison of income tax rates among some neighboring states:
| State | Income Tax Rate (Highest Bracket) |
|---|---|
| Missouri | 5.40% |
| Illinois | 4.95% |
| Iowa | 8.53% |
| Kansas | 5.70% |
| Arkansas | 6.90% |
Please note that these rates represent each state's highest income tax bracket rates and may vary based on income level and other factors.
The sales tax rate in Missouri is 4.225%. However, additional local sales taxes may apply, varying by city and county. It's important to note that some local jurisdictions may have higher or lower sales tax rates than the state rate.
You could also check out the complete guide to taxes in Missouri here.
The bottom line
The amount of money needed to live comfortably in Missouri can vary depending on location, lifestyle, family size, and personal preferences. However, as the most expensive state in the US, you may need more than you first think.
It's essential to consider these factors, along with personal circumstances and preferences, when evaluating the cost of living in Missouri.
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Writer
Charlie Barton is a writer at Unbiased. He has been writing about personal finance and investing since 2017, with extensive knowledge of platforms and products. Charlie has a first-class degree from the London School of Economics.