Missouri vs Colorado: Which Is Better to Live In?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Missouri is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 103.1), has a 0.9-point lower tax burden. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical home value is 50% lower in Missouri ($267,879 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in Missouri ($15,080 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
- Median household income is 36% higher in Colorado ($97,113 vs. $71,589 in Missouri).
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.7 pts | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | -13.7 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.3 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -12.3 pts-12% | 100 | MO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$29,242 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$29,242 | -$11,758 | MO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$264,869 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$264,869-50% | $368,697 | MO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.9 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -4 (-1%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -4-1% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,524 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$25,524-26% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap -3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -3.3 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,547 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -8,547 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Missouri or Colorado better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 51 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #34. Missouri leads 4 of 11 categories, Colorado leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22 | 15% | 38.3#39 · C | 60.3#9 · A | -22 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap +7.7 | 12% | 58.1#40 · C | 50.4#46 · D | +7.7 pts | MO |
| Health12% of scoregap -31.3 | 12% | 44.1#36 · C | 75.4#7 · A | -31.3 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap -5.6 | 12% | 59.7#27 · C+ | 65.3#18 · B+ | -5.6 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +26.7 | 10% | 79.8#14 · B+ | 53.1#38 · C | +26.7 pts | MO |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +5 | 8% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 60.4#22 · B | +5 pts | MO |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8 | 7% | 39.0#27 · C+ | 31.0#33 · C+ | +8 pts | MO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -15.3 | 7% | 46.1#34 · C+ | 61.4#3 · A+ | -15.3 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -3 | 7% | 31.2#29 · C+ | 34.2#24 · B | -3 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -29.5 | 6% | 15.0#34 · C+ | 44.5#9 · A | -29.5 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -20.6 | 4% | 25.3#46 · D | 45.9#20 · B | -20.6 pts | CO |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Missouri cheaper than Colorado?
Missouri is cheaper: cost of living index 90.8 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $29,242 more a year in Missouri after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.3 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -12.3 pts-12% | 100 | MO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | MO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.36¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -2.36¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | MO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.77 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$3.77+34% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | MO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,898 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$5,898-28% | $15,633 | MO |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$10,366 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$10,366 | MO |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$13,914 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$13,914 | MO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$29,242 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$29,242 | MO |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$12,187 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$12,187 | MO |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$16,245 | $18,692 | $34,937 | -$16,245 | MO |
| ChildcareGap -$11,796 | $30,160 | $41,956 | -$11,796 | MO |
| UtilitiesGap -$591 | $4,358 | $4,949 | -$591 | MO |
| GroceriesGap -$271 | $10,846 | $11,117 | -$271 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$314 | $9,523 | $9,837 | -$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$27 | $7,508 | $7,535 | -$27 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Colorado?
Missouri collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.83% vs 8.73%. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.9 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.3 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.42 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.55 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 6.66% | CO |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Colorado?
Homes cost 99% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $267,879 in Missouri vs $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of income in Missouri and $138,758 in Colorado; the median household earns $71,589 and $97,113.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$264,869 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$264,869-50% | $368,697 | MO |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.9 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +4.9 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$479 (-25%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | -$479-25% | $1,948 | MO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$65,102 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$65,102-47% | $100,006 | MO |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.8x (-33%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1.8x-33% | 4.6x | MO |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MO | CO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,378 | $2,741 |
| Income needed vs. median | +3% | +43% |
| Five-year change | +26.2% | +6.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | St. Louis | Denver |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $71,589, with unemployment at 4% in Missouri and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 7.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$25,524 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$25,524-26% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,659 (-25%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$18,659-25% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MO | CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | CO |
| Electricians | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | CO |
| Lawyers | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | MO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Missouri safer than Colorado?
Violent crime is about the same: 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 1,644 and 2,144 per 100,000.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -4 (-1%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -4-1% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -500 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -500-23% | 1,535 | MO |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- O'Fallon, MO97 violent per 100K
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #27), with high school graduation rates of 89.8% and 82.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #36); life expectancy is 75.2 years in Missouri and 78.5 in Colorado.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap -3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -3.3 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +9.6 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- O'Fallon, MOeducation score 95.4
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Missouri #27, Colorado #18. Health: Missouri #36, Colorado #7.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Colorado, or from Colorado to Missouri?
2,523 households moved from Missouri to Colorado and 2,677 moved from Colorado to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 154 households for Missouri. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $80,274; movers to Missouri reported $72,661. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,746 people (±1,516) moving from Missouri to Colorado and 7,388 (±2,551) the other way, a net gain of about 3,642 people for Missouri beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -48,909 (-40%) | 72,481#19 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | -48,909-40% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap -40,362 (-37%) | 69,687#30 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | -40,362-37% | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,547 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -8,547 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.5 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$16,707 (-20%) | $65,825#38 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$16,707-20% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$12,996 (-15%) | $71,544#29 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | -$12,996-15% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +4.2 | MO |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +12 places | #34score 60 | #22score 66.1 | +12 places | CO |
| RetireesGap +16 places | #32score 59.2 | #16score 67 | +16 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #33score 48.8 | #23score 53.8 | +10 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +12 places | #32score 50.5 | #20score 56.7 | +12 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #26score 56.7 | #20score 59.8 | +6 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +26 places | #41score 29.3 | #15score 55.8 | +26 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #34)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #32)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #33)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #32)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #26)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #41)
Which cities stand out in Missouri and Colorado?
Missouri has 20 tracked cities and Colorado has 20; the largest are Kansas City and Denver. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Kansas City510,612 people | Denver718,877 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 | Broomfieldscore 68.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Joplincost index 85.7 | Pueblocost index 91.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate | Pueblo93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wentzville+2% growth | Grand Junction+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Missouri and Colorado compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Missouri carries AAA credit rating and Colorado AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +26.6 (+149%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +26.6+149% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -30.8 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -30.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | -1.7 min | 25.2 min | MO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap -8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,040 (-33%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$1,040-33% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | +4.66% | MO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Missouri AAA, Colorado AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Missouri vs Colorado: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Missouri is ahead on 22 of 51, Colorado on 19, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MissouriMO | ColoradoCO | GapMO−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +257,980 (+4%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | 6 million#20 of 50 | +257,980+4% | 6.8 million | MO |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,524 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$25,524-26% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,659 (-25%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$18,659-25% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -4 (-1%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -4-1% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -500 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -500-23% | 1,535 | MO |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 235#35 of 50 | 239#18 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 214 | 212#38 of 50 | 221#5 of 50 | -9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -3.3 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +9.6 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$264,869 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$264,869-50% | $368,697 | MO |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.9 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +4.9 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$479 (-25%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | -$479-25% | $1,948 | MO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$65,102 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$65,102-47% | $100,006 | MO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.3 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -12.3 pts-12% | 100 | MO |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.8x (-33%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1.8x-33% | 4.6x | MO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.36¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -2.36¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | MO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.77 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$3.77+34% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | MO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | MO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,898 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$5,898-28% | $15,633 | MO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.9 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.3 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.42 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.55 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,040 (-33%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$1,040-33% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | +4.66% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +26.6 (+149%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +26.6+149% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -30.8 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -30.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | -1.7 min | 25.2 min | MO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap -8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap -48,909 (-40%) · US 78,682 | 72,481#19 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | -48,909-40% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap -40,362 (-37%) · US 78,715 | 69,687#30 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | -40,362-37% | 78,715 | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,547 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -8,547 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +0.4 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.5 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$16,707 (-20%) · US $77,690 | $65,825#38 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$16,707-20% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$12,996 (-15%) · US $77,024 | $71,544#29 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | -$12,996-15% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 · US +1.1 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +4.2 | +1.1 | MO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$29,242 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$29,242 | -$11,758 | MO |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$10,366 · US +$31,418 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$10,366 | +$31,418 | MO |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$12,187 · US +$35,970 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$12,187 | +$35,970 | MO |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Missouri and Colorado numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 7 of the 11 categories to Missouri's 4, with 0 even; Missouri is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Missouri is ahead on 22 and Colorado on 19.
Missouri is cheaper day to day
Missouri's cost of living index is 90.8 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $267,879 in Missouri and $532,748 in Colorado. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 a year after typical costs in Missouri and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Missouri takes a smaller share in taxes
Missouri collects 7.83% of income in state and local taxes (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Colorado collects 8.73% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $71,589 in Missouri and $97,113 in Colorado, with unemployment at 4% and 4%. Violent crime runs 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 422 in Colorado.
People move to Missouri on net
7,388 people moved to Missouri from Colorado in the latest Census release, against 3,746 going the other way.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Missouri ranks #34 of 50 and Colorado #22; for retirees, Missouri ranks #32 and Colorado #16.
Missouri vs Colorado: frequently asked questions
Is Missouri or Colorado better to live in?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Missouri is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 103.1), has a 0.9-point lower tax burden. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Missouri cheaper than Colorado?
Missouri is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 90.8 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$6,088 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Missouri, and -$35,330 in Colorado. The typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $532,748 in Colorado.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Colorado?
Missouri has the lower tax burden: 7.83% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Missouri's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.91% and its combined sales tax 8.44%; Colorado's are 4.4%, 0.49% and 7.89%.
Is Missouri safer than Colorado?
Missouri and Colorado have similar violent crime rates: 418 vs 422 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Missouri ranks #41 of 50 for violent crime and Colorado #43. Property crime is 1,644 per 100,000 in Missouri and 2,144 in Colorado. The safest tracked cities are O'Fallon, MO, and Castle Rock, CO.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Colorado?
Homes are 99% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of household income in Missouri and $138,758 in Colorado, against median incomes of $71,589 and $97,113.
Do people earn more in Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $71,589 in Missouri, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Missouri and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 7, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Colorado or from Colorado to Missouri?
2,523 households moved from Missouri to Colorado and 2,677 moved from Colorado to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 154 households for Missouri. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $80,274; movers to Missouri reported $72,661. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,746 people (±1,516) moving from Missouri to Colorado and 7,388 (±2,551) the other way, a net gain of about 3,642 people for Missouri beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #32 for Missouri. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,673 left after typical costs in Missouri and +$28,486 in Colorado.
Which is better for families, Missouri or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #34 for Missouri. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Missouri and $20,978 in Colorado. High school graduation rates are 89.8% and 82.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 after typical costs in Missouri and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Is Colorado better than Missouri?
Yes: Colorado ranks higher than Missouri overall, #18 of 50 vs #34, with a composite score of 64.7 to 51. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories and Missouri leads 4, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Missouri vs Colorado.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,677 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).