Moving to Missouri: A Relocation Guide

Published Aug 14, 2026 · Relocation · Red Rock Daily staff

Thinking about moving to Missouri? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.

Key facts

• Capital: Jefferson City
• Largest city: Kansas City
• Population: 6,154,913 (2020 census)
• Nickname: The Show-Me State
• Region: Midwest

What should you consider before moving to Missouri?

• Where to live: Major cities include Kansas City and the state capital Jefferson City. See our Missouri state guide and city guides for details.
• Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
• Lifestyle: Missouri's midwest location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
• Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.

City guides: Jefferson City, Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield.

Frequently asked questions

What are the largest cities in Missouri?

The largest city in Missouri is Kansas City, and the capital is Jefferson City. See the city guides for local detail.

What is the population of Missouri?

The 2020 census population of Missouri is 6,154,913 (2020 census).

What should I research before moving to Missouri?

Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the Missouri state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.

Next steps

This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the Missouri state guide and local city pages.