Missouri Cost of Living
Missouri has one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S.
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Relocating to Missouri offers a blend of vibrant cities and scenic small towns, but it also means navigating a new financial landscape. From the cost of rent to what you’ll spend on groceries, understanding these details is crucial for anyone considering a move.
To determine the cost of living in Missouri, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent official sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Missouri spend $52,097 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe average rent in Missouri is $1,119, versus the national average rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Missouri spend $244.43 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.83 in Missouri.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Missouri pay $1,768 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Missouri
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Missouri was $52,097 in 2023. This total reflects what Missourians typically spend each year on essential needs like housing, health care, food, energy and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Missouri:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Missouri |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $7,731 |
| Health care | $9,374 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $3,975 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $2,020 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $28,996 |
| Total cost | $52,097 |
Housing costs in Missouri
Housing expenses often shape a family’s entire budget. In Missouri, the average rent is $1,119, which is noticeably less than the national average of $1,639. The amount you’ll pay each month can differ based on neighborhood, city size and home features. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, here’s how average rents in Missouri compare by apartment size:
- One-bedroom rent: $865
- Two-bedroom rent: $996
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,190
- Four-bedroom rent: $1,416
If buying a home is in your plans, the median home price in Missouri is $288,000, which is much less compared with the national median of $446,638.
Homeowners should also note that Missouri’s property taxes are 0.88% — an important factor for long-term planning. The state ranks No. 23 for highest effective property tax rates in the nation.
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Food costs in Missouri
What you spend on food in Missouri depends on your shopping habits and dining preferences. According to the latest U.S. Census data, the average person in Missouri spends $244.43 on groceries each week, while the U.S. average is $270.21.
Food budgets look different for every household. People who prefer to cook at home might notice some savings, especially if they buy local or shop in bulk, but eating out — especially in larger cities or tourist hotspots — will quickly increase monthly expenses. In Missouri’s smaller communities, both groceries and restaurant meals often cost a bit less than in the bigger cities.
Transportation costs in Missouri
Missourians pay an average of $2.83 per gallon for regular gas as of August 2025, which is lower than the national average of $3.13. The cost of auto insurance in Missouri is $1,143.91 for full coverage, which is in line with the national average of $1,258.
Health care costs in Missouri
Missouri employees with employer-sponsored health insurance pay an average of $1,768 each year toward their coverage, while employers cover the remaining $6,462 of the $8,230 total premium. The national average for employee health insurance contributions is $1,640 out of a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Missouri
The average monthly electric bill in Missouri is $126.09, compared with $136.84 in the U.S. For natural gas, Missourians pay $11.98 per thousand cubic feet, while the national average is $12.92.
FAQ
Does Missouri have a high cost of living?
No, Missouri has one of the lowest costs of living. Rent and utilities generally cost less than in most states, and median home prices are much lower as well.
Is Missouri a good place to live?
Yes, Missouri is a good place to live if you value affordable housing and a lower overall cost of living. The state continues to attract new residents, and it offers a mix of urban amenities and rural charm that appeals to a range of lifestyles. For many families, the combination of lower housing costs and diverse communities makes Missouri an appealing choice.
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Is Missouri good for renters?
Yes, Missouri is good for renters. Rent is generally affordable, and rental units are also widely available, giving renters a range of options across different cities and towns. However, Missouri has fewer tenant protections than many other states, so pay close attention to lease agreements and local laws.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
