Best Cities for Retirement Outside of St. Louis, Missouri

Missouri, affectionately known as the Show-Me State, is a Midwest state rich in farmland and barbeque. Perhaps most well-known for St. Louis’ Gateway Arch, Missouri has an exceptional climate for retirees who like to experience four seasons, although tornadoes are common in April and May.

Compared to the rest of the US, Missouri’s cost of living is around 14% lower than the national average (according to Best Places). It has a population of over 6.1 million people. And, of that number, 17.6% are aged 65 years and older. What’s drawing the older population there? It might be the fact that the state is moderately tax-friendly for seniors! Or, maybe these cities are just that great! Read on to learn more about the best small towns for retirement in Missouri.

Ballwin

In this small town of just over 30,000 residents and located in the heart of St. Louis County, visitors will find a short commute to the major cities, two highly acclaimed school districts, and very low crime rates. A large recreational park is situated in the center of the town and offers tennis and volleyball courts, two ponds, a pavilion, walking paths, and a children’s playground.

Lake St. Louis

The beautiful and picturesque town of Lake St. Louis was originally established as a private resort village in the late 1960s and today offers a wide selection of golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. The community of 14,300 residents is located approximately 35 miles from St. Louis and features two private lakes and a National Equestrian Center. Just one town over is a major General Motors plant that offers substantial jobs for residents of Lake St. Louis.

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Liberty

With just 29,000 residents, the town of Liberty offers a short commute to some of the state’s best telecom, engineering, and scientific jobs in the state. The school district in Liberty is ranked as one of the highest in Missouri and residents have moved from all over the state just to enroll their children. Overlooking Liberty is the beautiful campus of William Jewell College that sits on a picturesque hilltop and provides cultural events for the community’s residents. Arts and entertainment are a huge draw for this community.

Webster Groves

Known as one of the best small towns in Missouri, Webster Groves offers green neighborhoods that boast large oak tree-lined streets. The small community of 22,200 residents sits just two miles outside of the St. Louis city limits and provides affordable housing and easy commutes for both young and older families. The public schools are competitive and the town offers plenty of economic diversity. The town is friendly, hospitable, and beautifully landscaped.

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Hannibal

While Hannibal may not be the most highly recognized small town in Missouri, it is certainly one that should not be missed. Hannibal is the hometown of Mark Twain and sits, as it should, along the Mississippi River. There are a number of tours associated with Mark Twain and his home. There are also riverboat rides, a visit to Tom Sawyer’s cave and a variety of Twain shows to enjoy for the entire family.

Saint Genevieve

The town of Ste. Genevieve is as picturesque as its name sounds, with amazing French Colonial design and architecture throughout. The town is one of the oldest communities situated west of the Mississippi River. The community offers small but well-received festivals annually.

More Missouri Resources

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