Missouri’s scenic landscapes, from the rolling Ozark Mountains to the expansive plains along the Mississippi River, offer a diverse array of natural beauty. Cities like St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant cultural scene, and Kansas City, renowned for its jazz heritage and barbecue, provide distinct living experiences. However, every state faces its challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of living in Missouri, helping you gain insight into what awaits you.
Renting in Missouri snapshot
1. Pro: Rich cultural heritage
Missouri’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its diverse array of traditions, music, and cuisine. For example, the vibrant jazz scene in Kansas City harkens back to the city’s heyday as a hub for jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie. In St. Louis, the historic architecture of neighborhoods like Soulard and The Hill reflect the city’s immigrant past and vibrant cultural identity.
2. Con: Weather extremes in the winter
3. Pro: Affordable cost of living
4. Con: Limited public transportation options
Missouri grapples with limited transportation options, particularly outside major urban centers. Cities like Kirkwood is a great example, with a transit score of 22, meaning almost all errands require a car. Rural areas often lack comprehensive public transportation systems, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles for commuting and travel. This transportation gap can pose challenges for individuals without access to a car, impacting mobility and access to essential services.
5. Pro: Outdoor recreation
Missouri’s natural beauty extends far beyond its famous landmarks, encompassing diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas throughout the state. The Ozark Mountains, with their rugged terrain and lush forests, offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure, from rock climbing to cave exploring. Meanwhile, the majestic Missouri River winds its way through the landscape, providing idyllic settings for boating, kayaking, and birdwatching along its banks.
6. Con: High humidity
7. Pro: Delicious food
Missouri’s food scene is a blend of traditional barbecue, farm-to-table restaurants, and international cuisine. Kansas City, for example, is renowned for its barbecue, offering a variety of styles and flavors that attract food enthusiasts from all over. These barbecue traditions draw food lovers from all over to savor its mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and burnt ends.
8. Con: High allergy risks
Missouri’s fluctuating climate and diverse landscapes contribute to high allergy risks for residents and visitors. Pollen levels can soar during the spring and fall seasons, triggering allergies for those sensitive to environmental allergens. Additionally, mold spores thrive in the state’s humid conditions, posing further challenges for individuals prone to respiratory issues.
9. Pro: Fall foliage
Missouri’s fall foliage transforms the landscape into a breathtaking mix of stunning hues, painting the scenery with shades of crimson, gold, and amber. Places like the Shaw Nature Reserve and the Katy Trail burst into color, offering picturesque settings for leisurely strolls or scenic drives. Witnessing the stunning spectacle of autumn foliage against the backdrop of Missouri’s rolling hills is a great way to take in Missouri.
10. Con: Natural disasters
Missouri is prone to various natural disasters, including tornadoes, floods, and severe storms, which can pose significant risks to residents and communities. The state’s location in the Tornado Alley puts it at heightened vulnerability to tornado outbreaks, particularly during the spring and summer months.
11. Pro: Central location
Missouri’s central location in the United States offers residents convenient access to neighboring states and major cities in all directions. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Chicago, a road trip to the Rocky Mountains, or a visit to the bustling metropolis of Nashville, Missouri’s strategic position makes travel easy and efficient.
12. Con: Insects and pests
Missouri’s warm and humid climate provides an ideal habitat for a variety of insects and pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, and stink bugs, which can be nuisances for residents, especially during the summer months. The prevalence of these pests can lead to discomfort and pose health risks, such as transmitting diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.