City Profile

Springfield, Missouri

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

Overall Score

Springfield, Missouri, often called the "Queen City of the Ozarks" and the "Birthplace of Route 66," is the third most populous city in the state, blending a small-town atmosphere with the amenities and energy of a college town. Located in the southwest corner of Missouri, it serves as a regional hub for healthcare, education, and commerce. The city is known for its natural beauty, offering easy access to the Ozarks' outdoor activities and a community-first approach to development. Springfield's strategic location and growing economy make it an attractive destination for individuals and families seeking a balance of urban conveniences and a lower cost of living.

About Missouri

Missouri, known as the "Show-Me State," offers a diverse landscape from the Ozark Mountains to the Missouri River, characterized by a continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold winters, experiencing all four seasons. Its economy is highly diversified, with major industries including agriculture, manufacturing (especially transportation equipment and food processing), financial services, and a growing presence in high-tech fields like agtech and cybersecurity. Living in Missouri is generally affordable, consistently ranking among the states with the lowest cost of living, with housing costs significantly below the national average. The lifestyle offers a blend of urban amenities in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, known for their arts, music, and professional sports, alongside abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

Cost of Living Weather & Climate Jobs & Economy Quality of Life Safety Demographics Economy Transportation Healthcare Housing Nearby Cities Similar Cities FAQ

170,117

Population

$55K

Avg Salary

Cost Index

75.0

Quality Score

Performance

Quality Scores

Business

Livability

Affordability

Growth

Expenses

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Springfield is notably affordable, consistently ranking 8 to 12 percent below the national average, according to various 2026 data sources. Housing is the primary driver of these savings, with costs estimated to be 10 to 30 percent lower than the national average. Utilities and groceries also contribute to the city's affordability, typically running 19-21% and 4-6% below national averages, respectively. However, healthcare costs in Springfield are reported to be slightly above the national average, by about 6 to 11.5 percent. Despite this, the overall lower expenses for essential categories like housing, food, and transportation make Springfield an appealing option for those looking to stretch their dollar further.

Average Rent

$1,121/mo

Groceries

$400/mo

Transport

$120/mo

Utilities

$180/mo

Healthcare

$250/mo

Gym membership (monthly)

$45.00

Cinema ticket

$14.00

Restaurant meal (mid-range)

$15.00

Monthly groceries

$400.00

Doctor visit (without insurance)

$180.00

Income

Salary Insights

Springfield boasts a diversified and growing economy, with a metropolitan GDP of $29.3 billion as of 2024. The job market is bolstered by a strong presence in key sectors, including Healthcare and Social Assistance, which employs over 48,000 individuals and contributes significantly to the regional GDP. Manufacturing is another vital industry, employing more than 18,000 people. Other significant sectors include education, logistics, professional services, retail, and tourism. Major employers include CoxHealth and Mercy Hospital Springfield, as well as corporate headquarters for national brands like O'Reilly Auto Parts and Bass Pro Shops. The city's universities, such as Missouri State University, contribute to a skilled talent pipeline, supporting growth in technology, education, and professional services.

The average salary in Springfield is $55,000 per year. You would need approximately $67,000 to live comfortably.

Employment

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.50% Manufacturing +1.80% Education +2.00% Healthcare and Social Assistance +2.50% Logistics and Distribution +2.20%

Weather

Climate

🌡️

Avg Temp

☀️

Summer High

❄️

Winter Low

🌧️

Annual Rain

💧

69.00%

Humidity

🌤️

Sunny Days

Mobility

Transport

Getting around Springfield is generally easy, with an average commute time of just 16 minutes, significantly shorter than many larger cities. The city benefits from a grid-based street layout and ongoing investments in traffic infrastructure, including innovative diverging diamond interchanges, which help reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. While public transit options exist, the city's design and ease of driving suggest a medium to high car dependency for most residents. Interstate 44 and U.S. Highway 65 provide straightforward access for regional and inter-city travel, connecting Springfield to major cities like Kansas City and St. Louis within a few hours.

16 min

Avg Commute

45.00/10

Transit Score

50.00/10

Walkability

Medium

Car Dependency

At a Glance

Pros & Cons

Advantages

The cost of living in Springfield is 8-12% below the national average, with significant savings in housing, utilities, and groceries.

Housing is highly affordable, with a median home value of $208,223 in 2026, making homeownership more accessible.

The average commute time is short, at just 16 minutes, enhancing daily convenience for residents.

Springfield has a diversified and growing economy, with strong sectors in healthcare and manufacturing.

The city is a regional healthcare hub with highly-rated hospitals like Mercy Hospital Springfield, which received a Leapfrog A rating in 2024 and 2025.