Missouri vs Iowa: Which Is Better to Live In?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8), carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden, and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 44% lower in Iowa (234 vs. 418 in Missouri).
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in Iowa (1,172 vs. 1,644 in Missouri).
- Total tax burden is 15% lower in Missouri (7.83% vs. 9.23% in Iowa).
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -18.2 pts | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | -18.2 pts | — | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,771 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$3,771 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,332 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$28,332+12% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +184 (+79%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +184+79% | 328 | IA |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,912 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | -$3,912-5% | $80,903 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,208 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +5,208 | -33 | MO |
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 Iowa better to live in?
Iowa scores higher overall: 69.2 to 51 out of 100, #14 of 50 against #34. Missouri leads 2 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MissouriMO | IowaIA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -10.5 | 15% | 38.3#39 · C | 48.8#24 · B | -10.5 pts | IA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -21.7 | 12% | 58.1#40 · C | 79.8#12 · B+ | -21.7 pts | IA |
| Health12% of scoregap -16.2 | 12% | 44.1#36 · C | 60.3#20 · B | -16.2 pts | IA |
| Education12% of scoregap -9.3 | 12% | 59.7#27 · C+ | 69.0#9 · A | -9.3 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -6.5 | 10% | 79.8#14 · B+ | 86.3#5 · A+ | -6.5 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -0.6 | 8% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 66.0#14 · B+ | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4 | 7% | 39.0#27 · C+ | 35.0#29 · C+ | +4 pts | MO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.5 | 7% | 46.1#34 · C+ | 55.6#13 · B+ | -9.5 pts | IA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.6 | 7% | 31.2#29 · C+ | 27.6#34 · C+ | +3.6 pts | MO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.4 | 6% | 15.0#34 · C+ | 22.4#28 · C+ | -7.4 pts | IA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -21.4 | 4% | 25.3#46 · D | 46.7#17 · B+ | -21.4 pts | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8 in Missouri (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,771 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.23¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | -0.23¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.33 (+41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$4.33+41% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,827 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$1,827+14% | $15,633 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$305 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | -$305 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$186 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | +$186 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,771 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$3,771 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$207 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | +$207 | Even |
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 | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$587 | $18,692 | $18,105 | +$587 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$3,654 | $30,160 | $26,506 | +$3,654 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap +$144 | $4,358 | $4,214 | +$144 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $10,846 | $10,553 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$283 | $9,523 | $9,806 | -$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$625 | $7,508 | $8,133 | -$625 | MO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Iowa?
Missouri collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.83% vs 9.23%. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.58 pts | 1.02% | MO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 6.66% | IA |
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 Iowa?
Homes cost 12% more in Missouri: a typical home value of $267,879 in Missouri vs $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of income in Missouri and $70,437 in Iowa; the median household earns $71,589 and $75,501.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,332 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$28,332+12% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$146 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$146+11% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,219 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$3,219+5% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+16%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.5x+16% | 4.6x | IA |
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 | IA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,378 | $1,232 |
| Income needed vs. median | +3% | -7% |
| Five-year change | +26.2% | +26.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | St. Louis | Des Moines |
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 Iowa?
Iowa pays more: median household income $75,501 vs $71,589, with unemployment at 4% in Missouri and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,912 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | -$3,912-5% | $80,903 | IA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,399 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | -$8,399-13% | $64,333 | IA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MO |
| Population growthGap +0.18 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.18 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 | IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | MO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | MO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | MO |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | MO |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | MO |
| Registered Nurses | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | MO |
| Software Developers | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | MO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | MO |
| Civil Engineers | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | MO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | MO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | Even |
| Electricians | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | 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 Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 418 in Missouri (FBI). Property crime runs 1,644 and 1,172 per 100,000.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +184 (+79%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +184+79% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +472 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +472+40% | 1,535 | IA |
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
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Missouri or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #27), with high school graduation rates of 89.8% and 89.9%. Iowa scores higher for health (#20 vs #36); life expectancy is 75.2 years in Missouri and 77.9 in Iowa.
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 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
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
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, Iowa #9. Health: Missouri #36, Iowa #20.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Iowa, or from Iowa to Missouri?
1,665 households moved from Missouri to Iowa and 2,029 moved from Iowa to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 364 households for Missouri. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $57,344; movers to Missouri reported $60,338. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,254 people (±970) moving from Missouri to Iowa and 2,421 (±738) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +38,937 (+116%) | 72,481#19 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +38,937+116% | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,729 (+94%) | 69,687#30 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +33,729+94% | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,208 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +5,208 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | +0.4#23 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +1.1 | MO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,217 (+7%) | $65,825#38 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$4,217+7% | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,661 (+10%) | $71,544#29 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$6,661+10% | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +2.5 | 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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +31 places | #34score 60 | #3score 81.7 | +31 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +24 places | #32score 59.2 | #8score 77.8 | +24 places | IA |
| Remote WorkersGap +23 places | #33score 48.8 | #10score 63.9 | +23 places | IA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +17 places | #32score 50.5 | #15score 62.7 | +17 places | IA |
| Small BusinessGap +12 places | #26score 56.7 | #14score 65.8 | +12 places | IA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +23 places | #41score 29.3 | #18score 52.5 | +23 places | IA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #34)
- RetireesIowa (#8 vs #32)
- Remote WorkersIowa (#10 vs #33)
- Young ProfessionalsIowa (#15 vs #32)
- Small BusinessIowa (#14 vs #26)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIowa (#18 vs #41)
Which cities stand out in Missouri and Iowa?
Missouri has 20 tracked cities and Iowa has 20; the largest are Kansas City and Des Moines. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MissouriMO | IowaIA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Kansas City510,612 people | Des Moines212,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 | Waukeescore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Joplincost index 85.7 | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wentzville+2% growth | Waukee+9.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Missouri and Iowa compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Missouri carries AAA credit rating and Iowa AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -51 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -51 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.2 (+16%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | +6.2+16% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap +4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +3.6 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | MO |
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 | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -7 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -7 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$570 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | -$570-22% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Missouri AAA, Iowa AAA), 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 Iowa: 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 13 of 51, Iowa on 23, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MissouriMO | IowaIA | GapMO−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,032,154 (+94%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | +3,032,154+94% | 6.8 million | MO |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,912 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | -$3,912-5% | $80,903 | IA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| Population growthGap +0.18 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.18 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,399 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | -$8,399-13% | $64,333 | IA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +184 (+79%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +184+79% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +472 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +472+40% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 235#35 of 50 | 237#30 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#38 of 50 | 215#25 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,332 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$28,332+12% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$146 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$146+11% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,219 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$3,219+5% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+16%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.5x+16% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.23¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | -0.23¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.33 (+41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$4.33+41% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,827 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$1,827+14% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.58 pts | 1.02% | MO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 6.66% | IA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -7 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -7 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$570 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | -$570-22% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -51 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -51 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.2 (+16%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | +6.2+16% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap +4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +3.6 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | MO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +38,937 (+116%) · US 78,682 | 72,481#19 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +38,937+116% | 78,682 | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,729 (+94%) · US 78,715 | 69,687#30 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +33,729+94% | 78,715 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,208 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +5,208 | -33 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +0.4 | +0.4#23 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +1.1 | +0.4 | MO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,217 (+7%) · US $77,690 | $65,825#38 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$4,217+7% | $77,690 | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,661 (+10%) · US $77,024 | $71,544#29 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$6,661+10% | $77,024 | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 · US +1.1 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +2.5 | +1.1 | MO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,771 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$3,771 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$305 · US +$31,418 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | -$305 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$207 · US +$35,970 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | +$207 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Iowa numbers say when read together.
Iowa ranks higher overall
Iowa leads 8 of the 11 categories to Missouri's 2, with 1 even; Missouri is ahead on growth and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Missouri is ahead on 13 and Iowa on 23.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 90.8 in Missouri (US = 100). The typical home costs $267,879 in Missouri and $239,547 in Iowa. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 a year after typical costs in Missouri and -$2,317 in Iowa.
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); Iowa collects 9.23% (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Iowa pays more and is safer
Median household income is $71,589 in Missouri and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 4% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 234 in Iowa.
Moves between the two run about even
3,254 people moved from Missouri to Iowa and 2,421 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Iowa fits families and retirees better
For families, Missouri ranks #34 of 50 and Iowa #3; for retirees, Missouri ranks #32 and Iowa #8.
Missouri vs Iowa: frequently asked questions
Is Missouri or Iowa better to live in?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8), carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden, and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Missouri cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper than Missouri: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8 (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 -$2,317 in Iowa. The typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $239,547 in Iowa.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Iowa?
Missouri has the lower tax burden: 7.83% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.23% in Iowa. Missouri's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.91% and its combined sales tax 8.44%; Iowa's are 3.8%, 1.49% and 6.94%.
Is Missouri safer than Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 418 in Missouri, per the FBI. Missouri ranks #41 of 50 for violent crime and Iowa #16. Property crime is 1,644 per 100,000 in Missouri and 1,172 in Iowa. The safest tracked cities are O'Fallon, MO, and Bettendorf, IA.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Iowa?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Missouri: the typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of household income in Missouri and $70,437 in Iowa, against median incomes of $71,589 and $75,501.
Do people earn more in Missouri or Iowa?
Iowa pays more: median household income is $75,501 vs $71,589 in Missouri, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Missouri and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Iowa or from Iowa to Missouri?
1,665 households moved from Missouri to Iowa and 2,029 moved from Iowa to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 364 households for Missouri. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $57,344; movers to Missouri reported $60,338. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,254 people (±970) moving from Missouri to Iowa and 2,421 (±738) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Missouri or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for retirees: #8 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; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,673 left after typical costs in Missouri and +$40,466 in Iowa.
Which is better for families, Missouri or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #34 for Missouri. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Missouri and $13,253 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 89.8% and 89.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 after typical costs in Missouri and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Is Iowa better than Missouri?
Yes: Iowa ranks higher than Missouri overall, #14 of 50 vs #34, with a composite score of 69.2 to 51. Iowa leads 8 of 11 categories and Missouri leads 2, including growth and livability. 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 Iowa.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,029 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).