Cost of Living in Jefferson City MO in 2025

Jefferson City, MO Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Jefferson City is projected to reach $800 in 2025, showing steady growth over the past 15 years.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit monthly passes cost around $50, while fuel prices stand at about $2.45 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs: Monthly employer-sponsored health insurance averages roughly $150, with Silver plan premiums near $500.
• Cost Comparison: Jefferson City's overall cost of living is approximately 15.7% lower than the national average, notably with housing costs 36.8% below the U.S. average.

Jefferson City, Missouri offers an affordable living environment with costs generally below national averages. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of key expenses for residents and those considering relocation.

From housing and transportation to healthcare and education, the following sections detail the cost components shaping life in Jefferson City in 2025.

1. Housing Costs in Jefferson City, MO

Housing costs represent a major portion of living expenses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment has increased steadily over the years:

• 2010: $600
• 2015: $650
• 2020: $700
• 2024: $766
• 2025: $800

These increases reflect growing demand and market adjustments in the city's rental housing sector.

Employers in the hospitality industry should be aware of these housing costs as they can impact staffing budgets and employee retention strategies.

Explore effective restaurant staff hiring strategies to better manage your workforce amidst rising living expenses.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Jefferson City, MO

Homeownership remains an affordable option, with median home prices rising steadily over time:

• 2010: $150,000
• 2015: $170,000
• 2020: $190,000
• 2024: $251,213
• 2025: $261,051

This trend suggests increased property value and opportunity for real estate investment in the area.

Business owners might find insights in hospitality real estate market trends to better position their properties for success.

3. Transportation Expenses in Jefferson City, MO

Jefferson City's transportation costs include public transit fares, fuel prices, and vehicle maintenance:

• Public Transit: One-way fare is approximately $1.50; monthly passes cost around $50.
• Fuel Costs: Average price per gallon of gasoline is about $2.45.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual maintenance expenses average around $1,000.

These costs vary based on individual commuting patterns and vehicle types.

4. Utility Costs in Jefferson City, MO

Utilities for a standard residence typically include electricity and internet expenses:

• Electricity: $178.33 monthly
• Internet: $50.00 monthly
• Total Utilities: $228.33 monthly

Utility charges can fluctuate based on usage and service providers.

Restaurant owners can benefit from learning about restaurant utility cost guides to optimize operational expenses.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Jefferson City, MO

Grocery costs per person average around $624 monthly, which is lower than many urban areas.

Dining out options cost approximately $12 for casual meals and around $40 at mid-range restaurants.

Hospitality employers may explore restaurant consumer trends to understand customer spending behavior in different price segments.

6. Healthcare Costs in Jefferson City, MO

Healthcare expenses are an important consideration, with insurance plans varying in coverage and cost:

• Employer-Sponsored Insurance: About $150 monthly on average.
• Silver Health Plan: Premiums near $500 monthly.

Personal medical expenses will vary depending on individual health needs and coverage.

For hospitality businesses, offering competitive benefits is critical, as further explained in the best employee benefits for hospitality.

7. Educational Expenses in Jefferson City, MO

Education costs can differ significantly by institution type:

• Public Schools: Generally tuition-free through local taxes.
• Private Schools: Average tuition is around $8,000 annually.
• In-State University: Tuition averages approximately $7,000 per year.

These figures help families budget education-related expenses.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Jefferson City, MO

Entertainment options and their costs include:

• Movie Tickets: Average cost is about $9.99 each.
• Gym Memberships: $30 monthly on average.
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meals: Approximately $40 per meal.

Annual expenses for entertainment and personal care services range between $2,000 and $600, contributing to leisure and lifestyle.

If you are interested in entertainment or hospitality careers, check out our career opportunities in hospitality for guidance.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Jefferson City, MO

Key taxes affecting residents include:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 0% up to 5.4% depending on income.
• Sales Tax: Total rate is approximately 7.725%.
• Property Tax: Around 0.91% of property value annually.

These taxes play a significant role in the cost of living in Jefferson City.

Learn how to manage your tax strategies as a restaurant owner to save money efficiently.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Jefferson City, MO

Childcare costs are a vital factor for families:

• Daycare Services: Approximately $800 per month.
• After-School Programs: Around $300 per month.
• Extracurricular Activities: Estimated $100 monthly.

Planning for such expenses is essential when budgeting for a family in Jefferson City.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Jefferson City, MO

Monthly expenditures on clothing and personal care typically include:

• Clothing: About $100 monthly.
• Personal Care Products and Services: Around $50 monthly.

These amounts vary based on personal preferences and lifestyle choices.

12. Insurance Costs in Jefferson City, MO

Insurance premiums contribute significantly to the overall expenses:

• Health Insurance: Average $500 per month for a Silver plan.
• Auto Insurance: Annual premiums average $1,200.
• Homeowners Insurance: About $1,000 annually.
• Renters Insurance: Approximately $200 annually.

These costs are essential for financial protection and meeting legal requirements.

Explore insurance options and their effects in our guide to insurance for restaurant owners.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Jefferson City, MO

Additional expenditures include:

• Entertainment: Approximately $2,000 annually.
• Personal Care Services: About $600 yearly.
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Roughly $500 annually.

These expenses affect quality of life depending on individual choices and habits.

14. Income and Salaries in Jefferson City, MO

Median household income has shown steady growth in recent years:

• 2010: $50,000
• 2015: $55,000
• 2020: $60,000
• 2023: $67,205
• 2025: $70,000

These figures provide context for affordability and economic conditions in the city.

For those hiring in hospitality, understanding competitive salaries is key. See our insights on what restaurants pay managers and other roles.

Also review detailed bartender salary information to ensure attractive compensation packages.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Overall, Jefferson City offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to U.S. averages:

• Overall Cost of Living: Approximately 15.7% below national average.
• Housing: Notably 36.8% lower than U.S. average costs.
• Utilities: About 9% below average.
• Food: Roughly 11% less expensive.
• Healthcare: Around 3% below national price points.
• Transportation: 12% lower than average.
• Goods and Services: Approximately 8% less costly.

These statistics highlight the affordability of living in Jefferson City and can aid in financial planning.

Learn more about cost of living comparisons in Missouri to put these figures in broader context.

Our Methodology for Jefferson City Cost of Living Figures

Our analysis bases its data on reputable sources such as government statistics, real estate listings, local utilities, healthcare providers and transportation authorities. Where exact figures are unavailable, we provide reasoned estimates to offer an accurate portrayal of living costs.

Jefferson City Cost of Living: Conclusion

Jefferson City, Missouri boasts a cost of living well below national averages, particularly in housing and transportation.

Residents benefit from moderate utility and healthcare costs while maintaining a balanced lifestyle with affordable food, education and entertainment options.

These factors make Jefferson City an attractive location for both individuals and families seeking affordability without compromising quality of life.

If you are exploring hospitality careers in this region, check out our comprehensive guide to restaurant careers to find suitable opportunities.