Last updated 2026-06-15 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
A low cost of living, two real metros, and affordable Midwestern value across the state.
1. Kansas City: Best overall
2. St. Louis: Best for value and culture
3. Columbia: Best college town
4. Springfield: Best for affordability
5. Lee's Summit: Best for families
6. St. Charles: Best historic suburb
7. O'Fallon: Best growth suburb
8. Cape Girardeau: Best river town
9. Branson: Best lake-and-leisure town
Missouri delivers strong affordability with the amenities of two major metros, Kansas City and St. Louis, plus college towns and the Ozarks. Your dollar stretches far here, and the job markets are more varied than the reputation suggests. Here are the 9 best places to live in Missouri, ranked.