Missouri's 9 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
One of the most significant decisions you’ll make in retirement is choosing the perfect place to settle down for your golden years. Missouri has plenty to offer, whether you’re looking for affordability, access to quality healthcare, or just a friendly community to enjoy your golden years. The "Show-Me" state is home to numerous charming small towns where you can find a relaxed pace of life, reasonable housing costs, and plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. These nine small towns stand out as the best places to retire in the Show-Me State. Let’s dive into Missouri's nine best retirement towns and explore what makes each destination the perfect place to live during retirement.
The median listing home price metric used in this piece is from Realtor.com, using data from homes that are currently listed on their site. Median listing home price may significantly vary from median sold home price or other metrics for measuring the cost of a home or the cost of living.
The cost of living metric used in this article is from erieri.com, an economic research corporation.
Jefferson City
Jefferson City is the state capital, but it offers a small-town feel while providing the perks of a larger city. According to Realtor.com, the median listing price for a home is $285,000, and the cost of living is nearly 23% below the national average (Economic Research Institute). Healthcare is top-notch, with Capital Region Medical Center and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital providing excellent services. For retirees looking for assisted or long-term options, numerous choices are available, including Heisinger Bluffs Senior Living Community and Primrose Retirement Community.
Sedalia
Sedalia is known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable cost of living, which is 16% below the national average. In addition, the median home listing price is about $227,000, making it an attractive choice for retirees. Bothwell Regional Health Center and Katy Trail Community Health ensure excellent healthcare access, providing specialized senior care and wellness programs.
Seniors can enjoy cultural experiences at the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art, which features rotating exhibits and educational programs. The historic Katy Depot, a beautifully restored train station, offers a glimpse into Missouri’s rail history. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Liberty Park, which has walking trails, a community center, and seasonal events like outdoor concerts. The Missouri State Fair, held annually in Sedalia, brings live entertainment, local crafts, and delicious food, making it a great social event for retirees.
Nevada
Nevada is a small town of 8,000 residents known for its affordable housing (the median home listing price is $179,000). While living costs are similar to other areas of the state, there are plenty of activities to engage active seniors. The Bushwhacker Museum showcases Civil War history and Missouri's early pioneer days. Radio Springs Park is a popular spot for nature walks, fishing, and enjoying live music at the park’s amphitheater. The Fox Playhouse, a historic theater, hosts community plays and concerts, offering entertainment options year-round. The city’s Senior Center also provides activities such as yoga, dance classes, and social gatherings to foster community connections.
Nevada Regional Medical Center ensures quality healthcare services, including senior wellness programs and rehabilitation services. Several retirement communities, such as the Primrose Retirement Community of Sedalia, offer long-term solutions if needed.
Rolla
Rolla blends the charm of small-town life with the energy of a college community, thanks to being home to the Missouri University of Science and Technology. This vibrant environment keeps things lively and offers retirees the chance to keep learning—retirees can even audit classes at the university tuition-free. The cost of living is 19% below the national average, though housing tends to be a bit pricier, with the average home listing at $296,000.
Healthcare in Rolla is excellent. The Phelps Health Medical Center provides comprehensive services and senior-focused care programs. For longer-term needs, consider Parkside Senior Living or Oak Pointe of Rolla.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in and around Rolla. Maramec Spring Park is a true treasure just under an hour away, offering serene trout fishing, gentle hiking trails, and peaceful picnic areas nestled in lush surroundings. Back in town, the Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology invites visitors to discover the fascinating world beneath their feet with displays on local rock formations and mining history.
Hannibal
Hannibal is a small town of nearly 18,000 residents, sitting on the Mississippi River in the state's northeast corner. Known as the boyhood home of Mark Twain, Hannibal is full of history and charm. The cost of living is 16% below the national average, and the median home listing price is around $175,000. Hannibal Regional Healthcare System provides excellent medical care, specializing in geriatric services, while Bethhaven Pleasant View offers additional options.
Seniors can visit Mark Twain Cave, a fascinating attraction with guided tours that delve into the legendary author's past. The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum brings literature to life with interactive exhibits. A riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River offers breathtaking views and a relaxing way to explore the area. Riverview Park, with scenic overlooks and well-maintained trails, is perfect for leisurely walks or birdwatching. Hannibal has a great downtown district with Victorian-style homes and turn-of-the-century buildings.
Farmington
Farmington is a top pick for retirees seeking natural beauty and modern conveniences. The community is about an hour south of St. Louis, with nearly 18,200 residents (17.2% are over 65). The cost of living is about 22% below the national average, and the median home listing price hovers around $300,000. Parkland Health Center, which provides specialized senior care, cardiology, and rehabilitation services, is well-suited to this community.
Retirees who enjoy the outdoors will love St. Joe State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and serene lakeside picnic areas. History buffs can visit the St. Francois County Jail Museum to learn about local heritage and regional culture. For wine lovers, Twin Oaks Winery offers tastings, vineyard tours, and live music events. The local Civic Center provides a range of senior fitness and art classes and a welcoming space to connect with the community.
West Plains
Tucked into south-central Missouri, West Plains offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle with a thriving arts scene and excellent healthcare. The Ozarks Healthcare system provides comprehensive medical services, including a senior care unit and wellness programs. The cost of living is approximately 22% below the national average, and median home prices are around $252,000.
The West Plains Civic Center is a hub for community events, performances, and educational opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the North Fork River or Grand Gulf State Park, known as the "Little Grand Canyon." The Harlin Museum offers a look into local history and regularly hosts rotating art exhibits and workshops for older adults. West Plains also hosts a seasonal Farmers Market, providing fresh produce and a chance to mingle with friendly locals.
Lebanon
Lebanon offers retirees a charming and affordable lifestyle, along with the nostalgic charm of being on US Route 66. The cost of living is 24% below the national average, and the average home price is around $250,000, making homeownership easily attainable. Mercy Hospital Lebanon, which has a strong reputation for quality and accessibility, covers medical needs.
Retirees can enjoy the Route 66 Museum and Research Center, a nostalgic stop packed with Americana. Outdoor options include Bennett Spring State Park, a beloved trout fishing destination with hiking trails and shaded picnic areas. The Boswell Aquatic Center provides low-impact exercise options that are perfect for seniors. The local Senior Center hosts weekly bingo, music events, and day trips to nearby attractions.
Camdenton
In the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks region, Camdenton is a hidden gem for retirees who enjoy lake life and scenic beauty. The cost of living is about 16% below the national average, and the median home price is around $225,000. Lake Regional Clinic—Camdenton anchors medical care, with access to specialized services nearby in Osage Beach.
Outdoor adventures abound at Ha Ha Tonka State Park, known for its castle ruins, spring-fed lake, and miles of easy hiking trails. The Lake of the Ozarks offers boating, fishing, and the peaceful lakefront living that many retirees dream of. The Camdenton Senior Center regularly hosts events, fitness programs, and local concerts. For a splash of culture, retirees can check out productions at the Royal Theatre, a long-standing venue with community plays and seasonal shows.
Missouri’s small towns provide a blend of affordability, healthcare access, and engaging activities that make retirement fulfilling. Whether you prefer history, outdoor recreation, or a relaxed pace of life, these nine towns offer the perfect combination of comfort and adventure. If you’re planning your next chapter, Missouri might just be the best place to call home!
