Cost of Living in Missouri — Housing, Taxes & Everyday Expenses

Overview

Missouri offers very affordable living with two major metros — Kansas City and St. Louis. Both cities provide urban amenities at costs far below coastal equivalents.

Housing costs

Median 1BR rent in Kansas City is approximately $1,100 and St. Louis approximately $1,000. Suburban areas are significantly more affordable.

1BR FMR across major Missouri cities: $995 – $1,197/mo (HUD FY2026)

Tax reality

Missouri has a top income tax rate of 4.8%.

Everyday expenses

At a cost of living index of 88, Missouri is about 12% cheaper than the national average of 100. Missouri's low housing costs and moderate tax rate provide excellent purchasing power for middle-income earners.