There are several positive aspects of Missouri that may make it an attractive destination for a family-oriented person who is considering moving from New Jersey. Here are a few potential reasons to move to Missouri:
Lower Cost of Living:
Compared to New Jersey, Missouri has a lower cost of living, which could potentially allow families to stretch their budgets further. Housing, groceries, and utilities are all generally less expensive in Missouri than in New Jersey, which could be particularly beneficial for families who are trying to save money or live within a budget.
One of the primary reasons why Missouri can be an attractive destination for a family-oriented person who is considering moving from New Jersey is the lower cost of living in the state. Compared to New Jersey, Missouri has a lower overall cost of living, which means that families may be able to enjoy a higher standard of living while spending less money.
Housing costs in Missouri are generally lower than in New Jersey. For example, the median home value in New Jersey is around $350,000, while the median home value in Missouri is around $168,000. This means that families can potentially buy a larger home in Missouri for less money than they would pay for a smaller home in New Jersey. Additionally, rental costs in Missouri are also generally lower than in New Jersey, which could make it easier for families who prefer to rent.
Grocery costs are also lower in Missouri than in New Jersey. According to data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, the cost of groceries in Missouri is around 12% lower than the national average, while the cost of groceries in New Jersey is around 5% higher than the national average. This means that families can potentially save money on their grocery bills by moving to Missouri.
Utility costs in Missouri are also generally lower than in New Jersey. For example, the average monthly electricity bill in Missouri is around $124, while the average monthly electricity bill in New Jersey is around $144. Lower utility costs can help families save money on their monthly expenses, which can be especially beneficial for families on a tight budget.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Missouri offers a variety of family-friendly activities that can be enjoyed year-round. The state has numerous parks, lakes, and rivers for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Additionally, Missouri is home to several amusement parks, including Six Flags St. Louis and Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, which offer rides and attractions for all ages.
Outdoor Recreation: Missouri is home to several beautiful natural areas, including state parks, conservation areas, and national forests. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities, which can be great ways for families to spend time together while enjoying nature. The Ozark Mountains and the Mark Twain National Forest are particularly popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Amusement Parks: Missouri has several amusement parks that offer rides, attractions, and shows for all ages. Six Flags St. Louis and Worlds of Fun in Kansas City are two popular destinations that offer thrilling rides and entertainment options. These parks are great for families with children of all ages, as there are rides and activities for both young and older children.
Museums and Historic Sites: Missouri has several museums and historic sites that are both fun and educational for families. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a popular destination that offers breathtaking views of the city, as well as an interactive museum about the history of the United States. Additionally, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most beloved authors.
Sporting Events: Missouri has several professional sports teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals (baseball), the Kansas City Chiefs (football), and the St. Louis Blues (hockey). Attending a game can be a fun and exciting way for families to bond over their love of sports and enjoy the local culture.
Festivals and Fairs: Missouri has a strong tradition of hosting festivals and fairs throughout the year. These events can be great opportunities for families to enjoy live music, food, and other entertainment options while connecting with others in the community. The Missouri State Fair in Sedalia and the St. Louis Renaissance Festival are just a few examples of the many events that take place throughout the state.
Strong Community Spirit:
Missouri is known for its strong community spirit, and many towns and cities offer family-oriented events throughout the year. These events, such as fairs, festivals, and parades, can be great opportunities to connect with others in the community and make new friends.
Neighborly Attitudes: Many people in Missouri have a friendly and welcoming attitude toward others, which can help foster a sense of community. Neighbors are often willing to lend a helping hand, share resources, or simply strike up a conversation. This can be particularly beneficial for families who are new to the area and looking to build connections with others.
Volunteer Opportunities: Missouri has a strong tradition of volunteering, and there are many opportunities for individuals and families to get involved in community service projects. These projects can range from helping to clean up local parks or waterways to volunteering at food banks or other nonprofit organizations. Volunteering can be a great way to meet new people and make a positive impact on the community.
Community Events: Missouri is home to many community events that bring people together for fun and entertainment. These events can include parades, fairs, festivals, and other gatherings that celebrate local culture and traditions. Participating in these events can be a great way for families to connect with others in the community and experience the local culture.
Close-Knit Small Towns: Many small towns in Missouri have a close-knit community where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. This can be particularly beneficial for families who are looking for a safe and supportive environment to raise their children. Small towns often have strong community institutions such as churches, schools, and local businesses, which can help foster a sense of belonging.
Supportive Environment: Missouri is known for its supportive environment, where individuals and families can find the help and resources they need. From social services to healthcare to education, Missouri has a strong infrastructure in place to support the well-being of its residents. This can be particularly beneficial for families who may need assistance with childcare, eldercare, or other issues.
Access to Higher Education:
Missouri is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Missouri, which is a flagship state university. This could be particularly beneficial for families with older children who are considering attending college in the near future.
State Universities: Missouri is home to several state universities, including the University of Missouri, which is the state’s flagship university. These universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, engineering, education, and more. Attending a state university can be a cost-effective way to obtain a high-quality education, particularly for in-state residents.
Community Colleges: Missouri has a network of community colleges that offer two-year degree programs as well as certificate and vocational programs. These colleges can be a great option for families who want to save money on the cost of higher education, as tuition at community colleges is generally lower than at four-year universities.
Private Colleges and Universities: Missouri is also home to several private colleges and universities, including Washington University in St. Louis and Saint Louis University. These institutions offer a wide range of degree programs and often have smaller class sizes and more personalized attention than larger state universities.
Financial Aid: Missouri offers several financial aid programs to help students pay for college, including need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer their own financial aid programs, including merit-based scholarships and need-based grants.
Dual Enrollment: Missouri also offers dual enrollment programs, which allow high school students to take college-level courses and earn college credit while still in high school. This can be a great way for families to save money on the cost of higher education and give their children a head start on their college education.
Beautiful Natural Scenery:
Missouri is home to several beautiful natural areas, including the Ozark Mountains and the Mark Twain National Forest. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, and can be a great way for families to spend time together while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Ozark Mountains: The Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri are a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, offering rugged terrain, clear streams, and lush forests. The Ozarks are home to several state parks, including Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which offer hiking, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.
Mark Twain National Forest: The Mark Twain National Forest covers over 1.5 million acres in southern and central Missouri, making it one of the largest public land areas in the state. The forest offers hiking, camping, and hunting opportunities, as well as numerous waterways for fishing and boating.
Missouri River: The Missouri River runs through the state and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Families can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing along the river, or simply take in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Lakes: Missouri is home to several large lakes, including Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, and Stockton Lake. These lakes offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as scenic vistas and natural beauty.
Conservation Areas: Missouri has numerous conservation areas that are managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. These areas offer hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing opportunities, as well as educational programs and events for families.
Overall, Missouri offers several positive aspects that could make it an attractive destination for a family-oriented person who is considering moving from New Jersey. From a lower cost of living to strong community spirit and access to higher education, Missouri has much to offer families who are looking for a new place to call home.