Moving to Missouri statistics (2025 data)

How many people move to Missouri?

Approximately 143,688 people moved to Missouri in 2023, while 135,597 moved out. This represents a net gain of 8,091 residents. Between a positive influx of both domestic and international migrants, the state attracted roughly 52 movers per day between 2022 and 2023.

Though The Show-Me State’s growth has struggled in the face of having more deaths than births, domestic migration remains positive. According to a recent ConsumerAffairs study based on a sample of 143,506 ConsumerAffairs.com users who expressed an interest in moving between January 2023 and March 2024, Missouri ranked as the 12th most desired state for relocation.

Top 5 cities that people moved to in Missouri

With high affordability and quality of life scores based on data collected from several sources and accounting for weighted factors, Missouri ranks as the 34th best U.S. state to move to in 2024. A low safety score is the primary factor holding the state back, but many are still attracted to the impressively low cost of living.

While some people are attracted to Missouri’s rural regions, the majority of migrants are choosing to relocate to urban centers or their nearby suburbs and exurbs. Columbia attracted the most new residents, adding 3,286 (2.6% growth) between 2020 and 2023. Wentzville — a St. Louis exurb — saw the highest population growth (6.5% growth) within the same period.

The top five cities people moved to in Missouri between 2020 and 2023 were as follows:

Why do people move to Missouri?

Affordable housing and the fourth lowest cost-of-living index, combined with lax regulations, are some of the main drivers of inbound migration to Missouri. Housing costs are 39.5% below the national median — representing significant savings that aid in the state’s below-average median household income.

High job availability is another factor driving movers to the state. The largest industries are trade, transportation, and utilities, education and health services, and government. Collectively, these industries employ nearly 51% of nonfarm workers. The fastest-growing industry in the state is construction, growing at a rate of 5% between July 2023 and July 2024.

Missouri housing statistics

With a median rent price of roughly $1,222 and a median home sale price of $254,500, Missouri renters and homeowners can expect to pay nearly 40% less than the national median for housing.

At 1.01%, Missouri offers a moderate property tax rate — ranking 29th nationally. While the tax rate here is less than half that of Illinois or New Jersey, many other regions offer lower taxes.

In 2021, the average property owner in Boone County — where Columbia is located — paid less than many in American cities, at $1,943 in annual property taxes. In general, the average property tax paid in the Show-Me State varies greatly by county, with residents in St. Charles County paying $2,941 annually in 2021, while those in Ripley County paid substantially less with an average of $520.

Cost-of-living statistics in Missouri

Missouri’s cost-of-living index is 88.4, making it the fourth most affordable state in the country. The median household income here is $66,852 — roughly 11% below the national average — but median housing costs nearly 40% below average help alleviate this challenge. The unemployment rate of 3.7% is also below the national average of 4.2%.

The price per gallon of gas in the Show-Me State ($3.06) is 6% less than the national average of $3.26. Despite producing less oil and gas than most of its neighbors, Missouri's central location and lack of logistical challenges allow it to offer some of the most affordable gas prices in the country. However, the state generally lacks green initiatives, ranking as the 46th most green state in the country.

For would-be movers, Missouri offers one of the lowest cost-of-living indexes in the U.S. and a median household income just slightly below average. While researching job opportunities and budgeting before you move is recommended, finding an affordable place to live may prove easier than in many other states.

Who lives in Missouri?

An estimated 6,196,156 people live in Missouri as of 2023, making it the 19th largest state in terms of population. This represents a population increase of 18,988 people compared to 2022.

Missouri’s population is skewed female, with women accounting for about 50.65% of the population and men accounting for 49.45%. In 2023, around 3.14 million Missouri residents were female, and 3.06 million were male.

On average, Missouri’s population is also slightly older (39.3 years old) than the U.S. average of 38.9 years. However, those between 25 and 44 years old make up the largest age demographic, accounting for 26% of the population, or 1.61 million people.

White residents account for the largest share of Missourians, approximating 82.4% of the population (5.1 million people). The Show-Me State also has a noteworthy share of Black and Hispanic residents, representing 11.7% and 5.3% of the population, respectively.

Tips for moving to Missouri

Not sure how to start your move to Missouri? Consider these step-by-step moving tips:

1. Understand the cost of living

While Missouri offers the fourth lowest cost-of-living index in the nation, expenses will still vary based on where you choose to move. Expect major hubs like Columbia, St. Louis and Kansas City to be more expensive, while rural areas in the southern portion of the state are some of the most affordable in the country. Use resources like MO.gov for information about property taxes, utility costs and housing market trends.

2. Explore the job market

From transportation and health care to the growing construction industry, the Show-Me State offers diverse employment opportunities. St. Louis and Kansas City are key economic hubs, while the Ozarks and other rural areas attract millions of tourists each year. Once you’ve determined where you want to live, tools like the Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development website and local job boards can help find openings in your field.

3. Prepare for seasonal weather

Missouri’s central location in the U.S. means that it experiences a wide variation of weather patterns. Expect hot, humid summers and cold winters that can bring snow and ice. We recommend investing in homes with adequate insulation and HVAC systems, as well as season-appropriate clothing. You can monitor seasonal changes through the National Weather Service website.

4. Be aware of natural hazards

Due to cold air from the north mixing with warm air from the Gulf of Mexico, Missouri is prone to severe thunderstorms and tornados. The primary tornado season runs from April through June, with flooding also being common during this period. To stay safe, sign up for local emergency alerts, familiarize yourself with community evacuation routes and prepare an emergency kit. The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency website provides detailed guidance for disaster preparedness.

5. Research transportation options

If you’re moving to one of Missouri’s urban centers — including St. Louis and Kansas City — you’ll have access to robust public transportation options like bus systems and light rail. However, the state’s rural road networks will require a personal vehicle for travel. Check out the Missouri Department of Transportation website for traffic updates, road closures and resources to streamline your travel experience.

6. Enjoy Missouri’s attractions

From natural wonders like the Ozark Mountains to St. Louis' stunning Gateway Arch, Missouri is filled with attractions to explore. Hike trails and explore massive caves, or spend a night engrossed in Kansas City’s vibrant jazz scene. Not sure where to start? Visit VisitMO.com to discover the state’s top destinations.

7. Understand mover quotes and tipping

When moving to Missouri, carefully review and compare moving company quotes. Be sure to account for potential additional fees depending on where you’re relocating to. Tipping movers is customary; a tip of 10% to 20% of the total cost is standard based on the quality of service.