June 7, 2023

Is St. Joseph MO a good place to live?

 

This is a common question that many people ask when considering moving to St. Joseph. The answer to this question depends on individual preferences and priorities. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of living in St. Joseph, including its cost of living, economy, history, outdoor activities, crime rate, entertainment options, and weather.

Cost of Living in St. Joseph

St. Joseph is an affordable place to live compared to many other cities in the United States. Housing prices, in particular, are reasonable. The average home price in St. Joseph is around $120,000, which is significantly lower than the national average. Rent prices are also affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $600 per month. This makes St. Joseph an attractive option for families or individuals on a budget.

Economy in St. Joseph

St. Joseph has a diverse economy with several major employers in the area. Triumph Foods, a pork processing plant, is one of the city’s largest employers, providing jobs in the agriculture industry. Other major employers include Mosaic Life Care, a healthcare system, and Nestle Purina, a pet food manufacturer. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, including Missouri Western State University, which is one of the largest employers in the region. With a strong and diverse economy, St. Joseph provides job opportunities for people with different skills and backgrounds.

History in St. Joseph

St. Joseph has a rich history, which is celebrated through several historical sites and museums in the city. For example, the Pony Express National Museum is located in St. Joseph, which commemorates the Pony Express mail delivery service that operated in the mid-1800s. The Jesse James Home Museum is another popular attraction, as it is the site where the notorious outlaw was killed by Robert Ford. In addition to these historical sites, the city also hosts a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Coleman Hawkins Jazz Festival and the Trails West! Festival. If you are interested in history or cultural events, St. Joseph offers plenty of opportunities to explore and learn.

Outdoor Activities in St. Joseph

St. Joseph is located on the Missouri River, which provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The city has several parks and trails for residents to enjoy, including the Krug Park and the Missouri River Greenway. The city is also close to several state parks and natural areas, such as Weston Bend State Park and Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, which offer additional outdoor recreation opportunities. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, St. Joseph provides plenty of options to explore nature.

Crime Rate in St. Joseph

One of the biggest concerns for residents in St. Joseph is the high crime rate in the city. According to recent statistics, St. Joseph has a crime rate that is higher than the national average, particularly when it comes to property crime. This can be a concern for residents who are looking for a safe place to live. However, St. Joseph has taken steps to address the issue of crime, including the creation of a neighborhood watch program and the installation of security cameras in public places.

Entertainment Options in St. Joseph

While St. Joseph does not have as many entertainment options as larger cities, it still offers a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Coleman Hawkins Jazz Festival, Trails West! Festival, and the Saint Joseph Summer Concert Series. The city also has a few theaters and cinemas for those who enjoy watching movies or plays. While it may not have as many options as larger cities, St. Joseph still provides enough entertainment options to keep residents engaged.

Weather in St. Joseph

The weather in St. Joseph is typical of the Midwest region, with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach into the 90s, with high humidity levels. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. The spring and fall seasons are mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. If you enjoy experiencing all four seasons, then St. Joseph is an ideal place to live.

In conclusion, St. Joseph MO is a good place to live for those who are looking for an affordable city with a diverse economy, rich history, and a variety of outdoor activities. The city also offers several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing residents with ample opportunities for entertainment. However, the high crime rate in the city can be a concern for some residents. Overall, St. Joseph is a great place to call home for those who value affordability, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant cultural scene.

 

FAQs

  1. What is the cost of living in St. Joseph, MO? Answer: St. Joseph is an affordable place to live compared to many other cities in the United States. The average home price in St. Joseph is around $120,000, and rent prices are also affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $600 per month.
  2. What is the economy like in St. Joseph, MO? Answer: St. Joseph has a diverse economy with several major employers in the area, including Triumph Foods, Mosaic Life Care, and Nestle Purina. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, providing job opportunities for people with different skills and backgrounds.
  3. What historical sites are there in St. Joseph, MO? Answer: St. Joseph has a rich history, which is celebrated through several historical sites and museums in the city. The Pony Express National Museum and the Jesse James Home Museum are popular attractions.
  4. What outdoor activities are available in St. Joseph, MO? Answer: St. Joseph is located on the Missouri River, which provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The city has several parks and trails for residents to enjoy, including the Krug Park and the Missouri River Greenway.
  5. Is St. Joseph, MO a safe place to live? Answer: St. Joseph has a higher crime rate than the national average, particularly when it comes to property crime. However, the city has taken steps to address the issue of crime, including the creation of a neighborhood watch program and the installation of security cameras in public places.