A Quality Life

Here, you can craft a remarkable quality of life with its blend of affordable housing, a lower cost of living, and a welcoming community spirit, creating an environment ideal for building lasting connections and raising a family. The city’s commitment to fostering a strong sense of community ensures that residents can not only live comfortably but also thrive in an atmosphere that values unity and well-being.

“America’s Most Beautiful Small Town!”

by Rand McNally

best American city to live in after the pandemic by Business Insider

%

lower cost of living than the national average

Affordable Living and Welcoming Community

Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Jefferson City presents a quality of life that resonates with affordability, warmth, and a strong sense of community. The city’s commitment to providing affordable housing options and maintaining a lower cost of living underscores its dedication to ensuring residents can enjoy a comfortable and financially sustainable lifestyle. This, coupled with the welcoming atmosphere that permeates the city, creates an ideal environment for individuals and families alike. Jefferson City’s emphasis on community building fosters connections among residents, making it not just a place to live but a place where neighbors truly support and enrich each other’s lives. The combination of affordable living, a welcoming ambiance, and a sense of community renders Jefferson City an exceptional choice for those seeking a high quality of life to work, live, and raise a family.

© United Way of Central Missouri

Community organizations

United Way of Central Missouri

© United Way of Central Missouri

At the United Way of Central Missouri, they envision a community where all individuals and families have an opportunity to succeed and thrive. To realize this vision, the United Way of Central Missouri collaborates with 29 non-profit health and human service agencies dedicated to championing the health, education, financial stability, and basic needs of every person in the nine-county central Missouri service area, including Camden, Cole, Maries, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Phelps, Osage, and southern Callaway. Together, they provide assistance to the hungry, homeless, powerless, seniors, babies, children, and adults with disabilities, as well as families grappling with drug addiction, striving to secure food, or recovering and rebuilding from natural disasters. The organization remains united in their vision, advocating for a better future for all.

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. LIVE UNITED.

Community Organizations

Jefferson City Area YMCA

The Jefferson City Area YMCA has been a welcoming presence in our community since 1970. The Y offers reasonable monthly rates, three convenient locations and extended hours, including 24/7 access. From state-of-the-art fitness centers, indoor tracks, basketball, tennis, racquetball and pickleball courts to youth sports, swimming lessons, childcare and so much more, the Y offers something for everyone.

As a charity, the Y’s Outreach Fund provides children, adults and families an opportunity to learn, grow and thrive at the YMCA. Parents can work knowing their children are in a safe environment at the Y’s Child Development Center, summer camp or after school care. Youth learn sportsmanship and teamwork when participating in youth sports. Swimming lessons help keep everyone safe around water. The YMCA cares for all by offering activities and services to promote health, wellness and community.

The Linc | © JC Parks & Lincoln University

The Linc | © JC Parks & Lincoln University

Wellness and Recreation Center

The Linc

The Linc | © JC Parks & Lincoln University

The LINC, an 80,000-square-foot wellness and recreation center jointly owned and operated by JC Parks and Lincoln University, offers a range of opportunities for thriving. Membership provides access to various exercise classes led by experienced trainers, an elevated walking track, four regulation basketball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a power cycle room, a kickboxing room, personal training, and more. The elevated walking track, where 7.5 laps equal a mile, offers a comfortable and weather-independent walking experience. Additionally, the fitness center is equipped with free weights, weight racks, machines, cardio equipment, and yoga accessories. As a provider of TechnoGym machines syncing with the LINC MyWellness app, The LINC ensures a smart and efficient workout experience for its members.

Missouri River Regional Library

© Missouri River Regional Library

Missouri River Regional Library provides access to a diverse selection of resources and programs to encourage the professional, educational, and cultural development of Cole and Osage County residents. Looking for a fun family activity? What about a new hobby with local enthusiasts just like you? MRRL offers a wide range of free programs, lectures, and resources to connect and engage our community. Only interested in books? They’ve got you covered. Besides the wide array of materials on the shelves, MRRL and ABLE run one of the largest book sales in the midwest annually the second week of March.  Check us out! Their great library staff is always ready to help you find what you need.

© Missouri River Regional Library

Explore the community

Here are some helpful resources to help you get to know our community and get plugged in.

"Jefferson City isn’t just a place or destination, it’s a welcoming community that becomes home: from running into people you know on a grocery run to going out for great food with friends to watching your kids excel at their favorite sport, Jefferson City provides the big city amenities while giving the small town feels."

Kit T.

"I moved from a large metro city, and I can proudly say Jefferson City raises the bar for what 'home' can be. My husband and I thrive here, raising our child amidst affordable living and fulfilling careers. Stunning parks and hidden gems like those amazing local eats keep us grounded, while the strong community gives us the constant sense of safety and belonging."

Ryann K