If you’re looking for affordable living in the Show-Me State, you’re in luck! Missouri is home to more than a few cities where you can stretch your dollar further without compromising on lifestyle.
From the busy cities to serene small towns, these affordable places offer a range of amenities and attractions. Let’s explore seven of the cheapest places to live in Missouri and cover a few of the largest employers and most affordable attractions in each town.
1. Springfield
Average rent: $893
Springfield is a budget-friendly gem with an average rent of just $893. Studio apartments here rent for about $852, while one-bedroom units average $862 and two-bedrooms are $965.
Major employers in Springfield include CoxHealth and Bass Pro Shops. For affordable entertainment, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to the Springfield Art Museum or spend the day exploring the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park.
Apartments for Rent in Springfield | Houses for rent in Springfield | Homes for sale in Springfield
2. Florissant
Average rent: $987
Florissant offers an average rent of $987, making it a great choice for those on the hunt for an affordable apartment. One-bedroom apartments in Florissant average $857, while two-bedroom units are about $1,117.
A couple of the more significant employers in Florissant are the Hazelwood School District and the City of Florissant. If you’re in town checking out apartments, consider a visit to St. Ferdinand Park or the James J. Eagan Center, both are affordable and well worth the trip.
Apartments for Rent in Florissant | Houses for rent in Florissant | Homes for sale in Florissant
3. Joplin
Average rent: $1,028
In Joplin, the average rent sits at $1,028, making it a wallet-friendly option in Missouri. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Joplin averages $1,025, and two-bedroom units go for $1,235.
Joplin is home to some sizable employers like Freeman Health System and Missouri Southern State University. For those looking to kill some time while having a little fun, Grand Falls and the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center offer free or low-cost experiences for outdoorsy types. The local farmers market is also a great place to find affordable fresh produce.
Apartments for Rent in Joplin | Houses for rent in Joplin | Homes for sale in Joplin
4. Independence
Average rent: $1,131
With an average rent of $1,131, Independence is another solid option. Studio apartments average $680, one-bedroom units cost about $1,247, and two-bedroom apartments go for $1,467.
Independence is known for employers like the Centerpoint Medical Center and the Independence School District. If you’re in town, you can’t miss the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. The National Frontier Trails Museum is also a great spot. Historic Independence Square is also a charming locale for affordable shopping and dining.
Apartments for Rent in Independence | Houses for rent in Independence | Homes for sale in Independence
5. Blue Springs
Average rent: $1,163
Blue Springs has an average rent of $1,163. One-bedroom apartments average $975, while two-bedroom units are about $1,350.
The city is home to major employers like the Blue Springs School District and St. Mary’s Medical Center. Locals love the beautiful Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area and Blue Springs Lake, both providing free or low-cost outdoor activities. The city’s community events and local parks add to the affordable living experience.
Apartments for Rent in Blue Springs | Houses for rent in Blue Springs | Homes for sale in Blue Springs
6. Columbia
Average rent: $1,291
With an average rent of $1,291, Columbia is a fantastic option for anyone seeking affordability in Missouri. Studio apartments average $1,949, one-bedroom units are about $850, and two-bedroom apartments go for $1,075.
The University of Missouri is the premier employer in Columbia, infusing the town with youthful energy and solidifying its spot as one of the top college towns in Missouri. For fun, we recommend checking out the free Mizzou Botanic Garden or taking advantage of the numerous hiking trails in the area. The downtown district houses a ton of affordable dining and entertainment options, perfect for students, young professionals, and families.
Apartments for Rent in Columbia | Houses for rent in Columbia | Homes for sale in Columbia
7. Kansas City
Average rent: $1,302
Kansas City has an average rent of $1,302. A one-bedroom apartment in Kansas City goes for about $1,268, and two-bedroom units are around $1,622. Despite being a larger city, Kansas City manages to offer affordable living with reasonable utility and transportation costs.
Major employers in Kansas City include Cerner Corporation and Hallmark Cards. For an affordable day out, take a quick trip to the iconic Shuttlecocks outside of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which offers free admission.
Apartments for Rent in Kansas City | Houses for rent in Kansas City | Homes for sale in Kansas City
Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under or within $200 of the median rent price for the state – which is $1,113 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
