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Living in Missouri: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Missouri | Expat Exchange
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Living in Missouri

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 02, 2023

Summary: People describe life in Missouri as a great place to live with a lot of natural beauty and friendly people. People love the outdoor activities, the affordability of living, and the variety of cultural attractions. The average cost of living in Missouri is slightly below the national average, making it an attractive place to live for those on a budget. The approximate population of Missouri is 6.13 million, and the largest cities are Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, and Independence. The cons of living in Missouri include the high crime rate in some areas, the lack of public transportation, and the extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the state has a low minimum wage and a high poverty rate.

Is the cost of living in Missouri high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Missouri, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Missouri can vary greatly depending on the area. Generally speaking, the cost of living is lower than the national average. Rent prices for one bedroom apartments can be anywhere from $700-$1000 per month, and two bedroom apartments can range from $800-$1200 per month. A dinner for two people at a moderately priced restaurant will cost around $50 - $70 in Missouri," commented one expat living in Missouri.

What type of recreational facilities are in Missouri?

When we asked people living in Missouri about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Missouri, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, trails, golf courses, and swimming pools. There are also many lakes and rivers for fishing, boating, and other water activities. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for camping, hiking, and biking. Missouri also has a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters for those who prefer cultural activities. Additionally, there are many sports complexes and arenas for those who enjoy watching or participating in sports," commented one expat who moved to Missouri.

What is the weather like in Missouri?

"The weather in Missouri can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach into the 90s with high humidity, while in the winter temperatures can dip into the teens and twenties. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. Missouri also experiences a variety of weather conditions, including thunderstorms, snow, and hail," remarked one expat in Missouri.

Are there good restaurants in Missouri?

"One of Missouri's favorite restaurants is The Shaved Duck in St. Louis. This restaurant is known for its delicious barbecue and its cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, sandwiches, and sides. The restaurant also offers a full bar and a selection of craft beers. The Shaved Duck is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Missouri is The Boathouse in Kansas City. This restaurant is located on the banks of the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the river and downtown skyline. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, steaks, and sandwiches. The Boathouse also offers a full bar and a selection of craft beers. Finally, The Hill in St. Louis is a favorite among locals. This restaurant is known for its Italian-American cuisine and its cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches. The Hill also offers a full bar and a selection of craft beers," wrote one expat living in Missouri.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Missouri?

"People living in Missouri typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. They may also shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers. Additionally, many Missourians take advantage of the state's tax-free shopping days to save money on their purchases," said an expat in Missouri.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Missouri?

"In order to obtain a work, student, or travel visa to Missouri, one must submit an application to the US Embassy or Consulate. The application must include personal information, passport documentation, documentation of purpose of travel, and proof of financial support. If the application is approved, a visa must be purchased and picked up to proceed to Missouri. In order to apply for residency in Missouri, one must first have arrived legally in the United States with a valid visa. Once in Missouri, there are several requirements that must be met such as obtaining a valid driver’s license, registering to vote if eligible, and filing all necessary income tax returns. Additionally, a complete application must be sent to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and include an application to adjust status and any accompanying files required. An interview may also be required. After successful completion of all the paperwork and interview, applicants will be notified of their residency status," said one expat living in Missouri.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Missouri?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Missouri can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums are higher than the national average, and out-of-pocket costs for medical services can be high. Additionally, many Missourians are unable to access affordable health insurance due to the state's lack of Medicaid expansion," said one expat.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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