Largest cities in Missouri

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Missouri, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 6.1 million, it ranks as the 19th most populated state in the U.S. Missouri has experienced steady population growth, driven by its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to the west, Missouri offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 961 cities and towns.

Living in Missouri provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Missouri's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Missouri, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Missouri cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Kansas City Population: 501,302 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 816 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,592 Med. Household Income: $82,386

St. Louis Population: 315,543 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 160 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,093 Med. Household Income: $66,997

St. Louis, MO, known as 'The Gateway to the West,' offers a unique blend of historic significance and modern urban amenities. Located in eastern Missouri, St. Louis is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Kansas City and Springfield enhance its status as a central point in the region. St. Louis's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Springfield Population: 173,433 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 213 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,106 Med. Household Income: $56,757

Springfield, MO, known as "The Queen City of the Ozarks," is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. Located in southwestern Missouri, Springfield is approximately 220 miles southwest of St. Louis and 160 miles southeast of Kansas City. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its beautiful parks, educational institutions, and thriving arts scene.

Columbia Population: 125,431 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 169 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,921 Med. Household Income: $79,655

Columbia, Missouri, known as "CoMo," is a vibrant college town located in the heart of the state. Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia offers a lively atmosphere, rich cultural scene, and strong sense of community. The city's blend of academic excellence, historic charm, and modern amenities makes living in Columbia an attractive option for students, families, and professionals alike.

Independence Population: 120,977 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 202 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,554 Med. Household Income: $76,268

Independence, Missouri, known as "The Queen City of the Trails," is a historic and vibrant community located just east of Kansas City. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and strong sense of community, Independence offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Independence an attractive option.

Lee's Summit Population: 101,898 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,598 Med. Household Income: $137,021

O'Fallon Population: 90,020 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,037 Med. Household Income: $137,452

St. Joseph Population: 77,382 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 114 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,758 Med. Household Income: $71,612

St. Charles Population: 72,409 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 62 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,006 Med. Household Income: $104,760

St. Peters Population: 59,202 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 58 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,637 Med. Household Income: $119,773

Full list of the largest cities in Missouri

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Kansas City	501,302	816	$82,386	78
2	St. Louis	315,543	160	$66,997	74
3	Springfield	173,433	213	$56,757	75
4	Columbia	125,431	169	$79,655	83
5	Independence	120,977	202	$76,268	82
6	Lee's Summit	101,898	165	$137,021	77
7	O'Fallon	90,020	77	$137,452	80
8	St. Joseph	77,382	114	$71,612	59
9	St. Charles	72,409	62	$104,760	80
10	St. Peters	59,202	58	$119,773	77
11	Blue Springs	56,527	58	$109,072	82
12	Florissant	52,517	33	$89,276	73
13	Joplin	51,877	95	$66,057	64
14	Chesterfield	48,902	82	$177,699	71
15	Jefferson City	43,647	93	$81,500	83
16	Cape Girardeau	41,479	75	$69,279	64
17	Wentzville	41,279	52	$140,656	81
18	Oakville	37,403	41	$127,927	69
19	Wildwood	36,455	172	$202,820	64
20	University City	35,356	15	$97,078	73
21	Liberty	32,604	75	$115,883	81
22	Ballwin	31,123	23	$146,973	86
23	Raytown	30,162	26	$83,161	64
24	Mehlville	29,470	19	$80,861	66
25	Kirkwood	28,511	24	$137,906	78
26	Gladstone	28,101	21	$94,380	76
27	Maryland Heights	27,688	57	$105,894	71
28	Hazelwood	26,011	41	$76,590	62
29	Grandview	25,503	38	$72,429	60
30	Belton	24,296	37	$96,434	75
31	Webster Groves	23,373	15	$138,121	77
32	Nixa	22,872	23	$95,055	74
33	Raymore	22,494	45	$130,938	70
34	Sedalia	22,119	35	$61,791	71
35	Arnold	21,866	30	$95,401	62
36	Ferguson	21,445	16	$55,811	58
37	Warrensburg	20,839	23	$72,742	73
38	Rolla	20,807	31	$55,653	73
39	Ozark	20,620	29	$87,571	72
40	Old Jamestown	20,034	39	$137,716	66
41	Affton	19,993	12	$101,192	70
42	Farmington	19,279	24	$65,731	67
43	Concord	19,251	14	$114,632	68
44	Creve Coeur	19,159	27	$143,524	81
45	Manchester	18,771	13	$116,905	76
46	Kirksville	18,120	37	$53,184	67
47	Spanish Lake	18,055	19	$61,641	51
48	Hannibal	17,980	41	$68,324	73
49	Poplar Bluff	17,570	34	$53,468	70
50	Clayton	17,205	6	$164,109	85

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Missouri, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.