Retiring in Missouri

BEA regional price parities put Missouri about 9.2% below the U.S. average cost level. The U.S. average is 100.

Missouri does not tax Social Security in the summary used here, but a 4% blended planning rate is used for taxable retirement-income context. IRA and 401(k) withdrawals can still need a state-tax line in Missouri, with exemptions and local rules checked against current state guidance.

Missouri does not tax Social Security benefits under the current state-tax summary used here.

Property tax is local, but the Missouri state-level planning rate used here is 1.0% of home value. On a $350,000 home, that is about $3,400 a year before county detail.

Tax Foundation puts Missouri's 2026 average combined state and local sales tax near 8.4%, ranked 12 among states in that table.

Vehicle costs need a separate check in Missouri because value-based vehicle taxes or registration-linked property taxes can show up in the car budget.

Settle in at Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers swimming, fishing, boating, and shady campsites overlooking the water. The lake area is a longtime draw for retirees who want recreation, scenery, and an easygoing pace.

Bike or walk the Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is the longest developed rail-trail in the country at 240 miles, with gentle terrain and 26 trailheads across the state. Its tree-shaded path and Missouri River views make it friendly for casual riders and walkers.

Hike the Ozark bluffs

Parks around the Ozarks offer hiking through oak forests with bluff-top views over the water. Day-use areas, picnic spots, and overlooks make it simple to enjoy the scenery without a long trek.

Social Security is no longer taxed by the state

Missouri ended state tax on Social Security benefits for people age 62 and older, as the Department of Revenue explains in its pension FAQ. Public pension income may also qualify for a partial or full exemption depending on income.

Severe weather is a regular event

Missouri lies in a corridor that sees tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. The IRS provided tax relief in 2026 for Missouri counties hit by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding, a sign of how often the state qualifies for disaster declarations.

Pension breaks can depend on income

Public pension benefits may be up to 100 percent exempt from Missouri income tax, but the amount can depend on your adjusted gross income, according to the state retirement system for local government employees. It is worth confirming how your specific pension is treated.