Missouri vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.2); Missouri has a 1.1-point lower tax burden and has a 49% higher violent crime rate. Missouri scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 49% lower in Kentucky (212 vs. 418 in Missouri).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Kentucky (1,262 vs. 1,644 in Missouri).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 14% lower in Kentucky ($63,057 vs. $73,656 in Missouri).
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.2 pts | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | +6.2 pts | — | MO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,744 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$5,744 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$35,302 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$35,302+15% | $368,697 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +206 (+97%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +206+97% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,063 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,063+11% | $80,903 | MO |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +636 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +636 | -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 Kentucky better to live in?
Missouri scores higher overall: 51 to 44.8 out of 100, #34 of 50 against #41. Missouri leads 6 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +14.6 | 15% | 38.3#39 · C | 23.7#49 · F | +14.6 pts | MO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -22.1 | 12% | 58.1#40 · C | 80.2#10 · A | -22.1 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap +11 | 12% | 44.1#36 · C | 33.1#43 · D | +11 pts | MO |
| Education12% of scoregap -7.9 | 12% | 59.7#27 · C+ | 67.6#10 · A | -7.9 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -3.2 | 10% | 79.8#14 · B+ | 83.0#11 · B+ | -3.2 pts | KY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +27 | 8% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 38.4#47 · D | +27 pts | MO |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 39.0#27 · C+ | 34.9#30 · C+ | +4.1 pts | MO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.3 | 7% | 46.1#34 · C+ | 44.8#37 · C | +1.3 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +12.9 | 7% | 31.2#29 · C+ | 18.3#49 · F | +12.9 pts | MO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +5.1 | 6% | 15.0#34 · C+ | 9.9#43 · D | +5.1 pts | MO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.6 | 4% | 25.3#46 · D | 28.9#40 · C | -3.6 pts | KY |
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 Kentucky?
Missouri and Kentucky cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,744 more a year in Kentucky after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.25¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +0.25¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.71 (+5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$0.71+5% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | MO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,005 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$2,005+15% | $15,633 | KY |
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 | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,307 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | -$1,307 | KY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,205 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | -$1,205 | KY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,744 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | -$344costs $75,344 | -$5,744 | KY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,011 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | -$1,011 | 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 | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,719 | $18,692 | $15,973 | +$2,719 | KY |
| ChildcareGap +$4,010 | $30,160 | $26,150 | +$4,010 | KY |
| UtilitiesGap +$28 | $4,358 | $4,330 | +$28 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$34 | $10,846 | $10,812 | +$34 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$440 | $9,523 | $9,963 | -$440 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$608 | $7,508 | $8,116 | -$608 | MO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Kentucky?
Missouri collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.83% vs 8.93%. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.5 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 5.46% | MO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.11 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.44 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +2.44 pts | 6.66% | KY |
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 Kentucky?
Homes cost 15% more in Missouri: a typical home value of $267,879 in Missouri vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of income in Missouri and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $71,589 and $64,526.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$35,302 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$35,302+15% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.9 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.9 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$95 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$95+7% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,599 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$10,599+17% | $100,006 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,378 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | +3% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +26.2% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | St. Louis | Louisville |
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 Kentucky?
Missouri pays more: median household income $71,589 vs $64,526, with unemployment at 4% in Missouri and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,063 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,063+11% | $80,903 | MO |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | MO |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,540 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$5,540+11% | $64,333 | MO |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | MO |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.07 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 | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | MO |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | MO |
| Software Developers | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | MO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | MO |
| Lawyers | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | MO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | MO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | MO |
| Electricians | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | MO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | MO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | MO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | MO |
| Registered Nurses | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | MO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | MO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | MO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | 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 Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 418 in Missouri (FBI). Property crime runs 1,644 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +206 (+97%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +206+97% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +382 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +382+30% | 1,535 | KY |
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
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Missouri or Kentucky?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #27), with high school graduation rates of 89.8% and 90.1%. Missouri scores higher for health (#36 vs #43); life expectancy is 75.2 years in Missouri and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 41#34 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
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
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, Kentucky #10. Health: Missouri #36, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Missouri?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,671 people (±1,520) moving from Missouri to Kentucky and 1,292 (±758) 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 | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,622 (+48%) | 72,481#19 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +23,622+48% | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,986 (+49%) | 69,687#30 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +22,986+49% | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +636 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +636 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -0.1 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,342 (+9%) | $65,825#38 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$5,342+9% | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,870 (+9%) | $71,544#29 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$5,870+9% | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +0.6 | 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 Kentucky?
Missouri is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Kentucky is the better fit for families; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +9 places | #34score 60 | #25score 65.1 | +9 places | KY |
| RetireesGap -14 places | #32score 59.2 | #46score 47.3 | -14 places | MO |
| Remote WorkersGap -13 places | #33score 48.8 | #46score 39.5 | -13 places | MO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -12 places | #32score 50.5 | #44score 39.5 | -12 places | MO |
| Small BusinessGap -17 places | #26score 56.7 | #43score 39.1 | -17 places | MO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #41score 29.3 | #43score 28.9 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #34)
- RetireesMissouri (#32 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersMissouri (#33 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsMissouri (#32 vs #44)
- Small BusinessMissouri (#26 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#41 vs #43)
Which cities stand out in Missouri and Kentucky?
Missouri has 20 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are Kansas City and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Kansas City510,612 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Joplincost index 85.7 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wentzville+2% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Missouri and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Missouri carries AAA credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | MO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.9 (+32%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | +10.9+32% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap 0 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.39% | MO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +33 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +33 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,340 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$1,340-39% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +2.9 pts | +4.66% | MO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Missouri AAA, Kentucky A), 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 Kentucky: 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 21 of 51, Kentucky on 12, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MissouriMO | KentuckyKY | GapMO−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,663,677 (+36%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +1,663,677+36% | 6.8 million | MO |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,063 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,063+11% | $80,903 | MO |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | MO |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.07 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,540 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$5,540+11% | $64,333 | MO |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +206 (+97%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +206+97% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +382 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +382+30% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 235#35 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 212#38 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$35,302 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$35,302+15% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.9 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.9 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$95 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$95+7% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,599 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$10,599+17% | $100,006 | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.25¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +0.25¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.71 (+5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$0.71+5% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | MO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,005 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$2,005+15% | $15,633 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.5 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 5.46% | MO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.11 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.44 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +2.44 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.39% | MO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +33 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +33 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,340 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$1,340-39% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +2.9 pts | +4.66% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | MO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.9 (+32%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | +10.9+32% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap 0 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,622 (+48%) · US 78,682 | 72,481#19 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +23,622+48% | 78,682 | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,986 (+49%) · US 78,715 | 69,687#30 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +22,986+49% | 78,715 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +636 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +636 | -33 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 · US +0.4 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -0.1 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,342 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $65,825#38 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$5,342+9% | $77,690 | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,870 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $71,544#29 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$5,870+9% | $77,024 | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 · US +1.1 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +0.6 | +1.1 | MO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,744 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$5,744 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,307 · US +$31,418 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | -$1,307 | +$31,418 | KY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,011 · US +$35,970 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | -$1,011 | +$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 Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Missouri ranks higher overall
Missouri leads 6 of the 11 categories to Kentucky's 4, with 1 even; Kentucky is ahead on safety and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Missouri is ahead on 21 and Kentucky on 12.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 90.8 in Missouri and 90.2 in Kentucky, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $267,879 and $232,577. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 a year after typical costs in Missouri and -$344 in Kentucky.
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); Kentucky collects 8.93% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Missouri pays more
Median household income is $71,589 in Missouri and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 4% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 212 in Kentucky.
Moves between the two run about even
2,671 people moved from Missouri to Kentucky and 1,292 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kentucky for families, Missouri for retirees
For families, Missouri ranks #34 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Missouri ranks #32 and Kentucky #46.
Missouri vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Missouri or Kentucky better to live in?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.2); Missouri has a 1.1-point lower tax burden and has a 49% higher violent crime rate. Missouri scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Missouri cheaper than Kentucky?
Missouri and Kentucky cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.2 (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 -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Kentucky?
Missouri has the lower tax burden: 7.83% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.93% in Kentucky. Missouri's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.91% and its combined sales tax 8.44%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Missouri safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 418 in Missouri, per the FBI. Missouri ranks #41 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,644 per 100,000 in Missouri and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are O'Fallon, MO, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Kentucky?
Homes are 15% more expensive in Missouri: the typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of household income in Missouri and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $71,589 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Missouri or Kentucky?
Missouri pays more: median household income is $71,589 vs $64,526 in Kentucky, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Missouri and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Missouri?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,671 people (±1,520) moving from Missouri to Kentucky and 1,292 (±758) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Missouri or Kentucky?
Missouri is the better fit for retirees: #32 of 50 on the retiree index vs #46 for Kentucky. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,673 left after typical costs in Missouri and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Missouri or Kentucky?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #34 for Missouri. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Missouri and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 89.8% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 after typical costs in Missouri and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Missouri?
No: Missouri ranks higher than Kentucky overall, #34 of 50 vs #41, with a composite score of 51 to 44.8. Missouri leads 6 of 11 categories and Kentucky leads 4, including safety and education. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.