Largest cities in Missouri

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

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

Kansas City Population: 491,158 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 816 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,561 Med. Household Income: $56,179

St. Louis Population: 304,709 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 160 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,936 Med. Household Income: $45,782

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

Springfield Population: 167,601 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 213 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,031 Med. Household Income: $37,491

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

Columbia Population: 122,659 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 169 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,843 Med. Household Income: $53,447

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

Independence Population: 117,139 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 202 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,502 Med. Household Income: $50,797

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

Lee's Summit Population: 98,997 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,549 Med. Household Income: $93,295

O'Fallon Population: 88,132 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,935 Med. Household Income: $92,498

St. Joseph Population: 75,369 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 114 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,712 Med. Household Income: $48,716

St. Charles Population: 70,650 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 62 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,846 Med. Household Income: $71,232

St. Peters Population: 57,536 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 58 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,562 Med. Household Income: $80,119

Full list of the largest cities in Missouri

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Kansas City	491,158	816	$56,179	78
2	St. Louis	304,709	160	$45,782	74
3	Springfield	167,601	213	$37,491	74
4	Columbia	122,659	169	$53,447	82
5	Independence	117,139	202	$50,797	82
6	Lee's Summit	98,997	165	$93,295	78
7	O'Fallon	88,132	77	$92,498	80
8	St. Joseph	75,369	114	$48,716	59
9	St. Charles	70,650	62	$71,232	80
10	St. Peters	57,536	58	$80,119	77
11	Blue Springs	55,415	58	$72,846	82
12	Florissant	51,220	33	$58,769	73
13	Joplin	50,580	95	$45,091	64
14	Chesterfield	47,603	82	$120,394	71
15	Jefferson City	42,670	93	$54,003	82
16	Wentzville	40,407	52	$93,602	79
17	Cape Girardeau	40,100	75	$45,713	63
18	Oakville	36,117	41	$86,505	68
19	Wildwood	35,476	172	$135,177	64
20	University City	34,336	15	$66,466	73
21	Liberty	31,761	75	$78,184	79
22	Ballwin	30,177	23	$97,174	86
23	Raytown	29,176	26	$55,940	67
24	Mehlville	28,824	19	$54,944	65
25	Kirkwood	27,772	24	$94,067	79
26	Gladstone	27,365	21	$63,225	76
27	Maryland Heights	26,996	57	$69,973	69
28	Hazelwood	25,222	41	$52,201	60
29	Grandview	24,990	38	$47,670	61
30	Belton	23,568	37	$65,667	74
31	Webster Groves	22,906	15	$94,479	77
32	Nixa	22,086	23	$63,176	74
33	Raymore	21,676	45	$86,368	71
34	Sedalia	21,634	35	$42,152	71
35	Arnold	21,144	30	$64,678	65
36	Ferguson	20,631	16	$37,376	58
37	Warrensburg	20,313	23	$48,306	74
38	Rolla	20,273	31	$37,252	71
39	Ozark	20,216	29	$58,995	71
40	Old Jamestown	19,602	39	$92,111	64
41	Affton	19,580	12	$68,555	69
42	Farmington	18,792	24	$44,093	67
43	Creve Coeur	18,627	27	$95,699	83
44	Concord	18,521	14	$76,629	67
45	Manchester	18,102	13	$78,381	76
46	Spanish Lake	17,682	19	$41,632	51
47	Kirksville	17,645	37	$36,228	65
48	Hannibal	17,312	41	$46,504	71
49	Poplar Bluff	16,979	34	$35,603	68
50	Clayton	16,763	6	$108,387	84

Methodology

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

Map of the population Density by State

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