Living in and Moving to Buchanan County, Missouri

Cost to Move to Buchanan County, Missouri

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We have KQ2’s Darren Doyle and Noel Hardin at the Buchanan County Democratic Committee Headquarters watch party. Missouri House District 10 Democrat Candidate Andrew Gibson is here. We’ll have reactions from committee members and Gibson as results come in. pic.twitter.com/QUO6UncLgL

— KQ2 (@kq2) November 6, 2024

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Cost of living in Buchanan County, Missouri

Housing Costs

The median home price in Buchanan County is approximately $139,000 as of 2023. This is significantly lower than the national average, providing an affordable option for homebuyers. Renting is also reasonably priced, with the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in St. Joseph, the county’s largest city, hovering around $700 per month, while 2-bedroom apartments average $850 per month. In rural areas of Buchanan County, rental prices can be even lower. The affordability of housing here is a major draw for families and individuals looking to live in a region with relatively low housing costs.

For more information, you can visit Zillow’s St. Joseph home value page.

Utilities

The average cost of utilities in Buchanan County, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, is about $250 per month for a typical 915-square-foot apartment. This is lower than the national average, reflecting the more moderate climate and relatively low demand for heating or cooling. Electric rates in Missouri are about 10.4¢ per kWh, which is below the U.S. average. Internet services, such as high-speed broadband, are widely available, with costs ranging from $50 to $100 per month depending on the speed and provider.

For further details, visit Numbeo’s cost of living page.

Groceries/Food

The average cost of groceries in Buchanan County aligns closely with national averages, though it’s slightly lower. A typical monthly grocery bill for a family of four in St. Joseph might range from $600 to $750, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits. For instance, a gallon of milk costs about $3.40, while a loaf of bread costs around $2.00. Fruits and vegetables such as apples and lettuce are priced moderately, at around $2.00 per lb for apples and $1.50 for a head of lettuce. Eating out at a casual restaurant typically costs about $12–$18 per person.

For more details on food prices, see Numbeo’s grocery prices page.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Buchanan County are relatively low. The average cost of gas is around $3.30 per gallon as of January 2025. Public transportation options in St. Joseph are limited, with a monthly bus pass priced at about $30. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, and car ownership expenses—including insurance, fuel, and maintenance—are about $400 to $500 per month on average. The county is well-connected by highways, and commuting times are typically under 20 minutes for most residents, helping to minimize transportation costs.

For more on local transportation costs, visit Numbeo’s transportation page.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Buchanan County are fairly moderate compared to the national average. A routine doctor’s visit typically costs between $100 and $150 without insurance. Prescription medications also tend to be cheaper, with generic medications often priced around $10 to $20 per month. Health insurance premiums for a family can range from $500 to $1,200 per month depending on the plan and coverage level. St. Joseph is home to several medical facilities, including Mosaic Life Care, which helps maintain relatively affordable access to healthcare services.

For more on healthcare costs in Missouri, visit Healthcare.gov’s average premium page.

Childcare and Education

Childcare costs in Buchanan County are relatively affordable. The average monthly cost for daycare for an infant ranges from $600 to $800 per month. For preschool-aged children, the cost drops slightly to around $500 to $700 per month. Buchanan County offers a range of public and private school options, with no direct tuition fees for public schools. Private school tuition can vary, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 annually. Higher education options are also available, with institutions like Missouri Western State University providing affordable in-state tuition rates for residents.

For detailed tuition information, visit Missouri Western State University tuition page.

Taxes

The property tax rate in Buchanan County is approximately 1.07%, which is close to the Missouri state average. The sales tax rate in St. Joseph is 8.475%, which includes both state and local taxes. Income taxes in Missouri range from 1.5% to 5.4%, depending on income levels. The state’s progressive tax structure means that higher earners pay a greater percentage of their income, but overall tax burdens remain moderate compared to other regions.

For more on Missouri tax rates, visit Missouri Department of Revenue tax rates page.

Insurance

The cost of car insurance in Buchanan County is relatively affordable, with the average premium for full coverage around $1,200 to $1,500 per year, which is about 15% lower than the national average. Homeowners insurance premiums are also moderate, typically ranging from $800 to $1,100 annually, depending on the home’s value and location. Health insurance premiums can vary significantly, but individuals can expect to pay between $300 and $700 per month for a mid-range plan under the Affordable Care Act.

For more information, visit ValuePenguin’s Missouri car insurance rates.

Recreation and Entertainment

Recreation and entertainment in Buchanan County are reasonably priced. A movie ticket costs approximately $10 to $12, while a gym membership typically runs between $30 and $50 per month. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking and fishing at local parks like Krug Park, with minimal costs involved. For family outings, tickets to attractions like the Pony Express Museum or the St. Joseph Museums range from $5 to $10 per person, making entertainment options affordable for families and individuals alike.

For more information on local attractions, visit Visit St. Joseph’s official tourism page.

Clothing

Clothing costs in Buchanan County are typical for the Midwest. A basic pair of jeans from a mid-range retailer can cost around $30 to $50, while a standard dress shirt may range from $25 to $45. Seasonal clothing items such as jackets or winter coats can cost between $50 and $150, depending on brand and material. Local stores, as well as nearby shopping centers in St. Joseph, provide a variety of options for affordable clothing.

For more on clothing prices, visit Numbeo’s clothing price page.

Personal Care

The average cost of personal care services in Buchanan County is fairly standard. A basic haircut for men typically costs around $15 to $20, while women’s haircuts are priced between $30 and $50. Routine services like manicures and pedicures cost about $20 to $40 each. Personal care products, including shampoo and soap, are priced similarly to national averages, with prices for everyday items ranging from $3 to $10.

For more information, see Numbeo’s personal care page.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses in Buchanan County—such as entertainment, clothing, and other goods—are generally in line with national averages, making it a place where residents can expect a comfortable lifestyle at a lower cost. The average cost of a bottle of wine is about $10, and household items like cleaning supplies cost between $5 and $15 each. These costs are consistent across most areas, meaning that Buchanan County offers a practical and affordable environment for day-to-day living.

For more details on miscellaneous costs, see Numbeo’s miscellaneous expenses page.

Is Buchanan County, Missouri a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

Buchanan County’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average, but it does experience some fluctuations based on local trends. According to the most recent data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the crime rate in St. Joseph, the largest city in Buchanan County, is roughly 20% higher than the Missouri state average. However, Buchanan County’s rural areas tend to have much lower crime rates than urban areas. The overall crime rate in the county has seen a slight decline over recent years, making it generally safer compared to urban counterparts.

For more information, refer to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Buchanan County is somewhat higher in St. Joseph compared to the surrounding rural areas. As of the most recent report, St. Joseph has an average violent crime rate of approximately 400 incidents per 100,000 people, which is higher than the state average of about 300 incidents per 100,000. However, rural areas of the county experience much lower violent crime rates, making them generally safer for families looking for a quiet environment. The violent crime trend has been fairly stable in recent years, with a slight decline noted in 2023.

For detailed violent crime statistics, visit the NeighborhoodScout’s crime page for St. Joseph.

Property Crime Rate

Property crime in Buchanan County is more common than violent crime but is still lower than the national average. Property crime rates in St. Joseph are about 2,200 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is slightly above the Missouri state average. Rural areas again show much lower property crime rates, with some regions reporting under 1,000 incidents per 100,000 people. Property crimes such as theft and burglary have seen some fluctuation, but overall, the area remains less prone to property crime compared to other parts of the U.S.

For more on property crime statistics, visit NeighborhoodScout’s property crime page for St. Joseph.

Police Presence

St. Joseph maintains a robust police presence with a police force of over 150 officers. The department’s efforts to combat crime include various community engagement programs and partnerships with local organizations. The police department also uses data-driven strategies to focus on areas with higher crime rates. While Buchanan County’s rural areas are policed by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office, which serves a much smaller population, the combined police presence is generally sufficient to maintain safety across the county.

For more details on local law enforcement, visit St. Joseph Police Department website.

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Buchanan County, especially in St. Joseph, has active neighborhood watch programs that are designed to increase community awareness and reduce crime. These programs are supported by local law enforcement and have been shown to reduce property crime in certain areas. Local residents are encouraged to get involved in these programs to help improve neighborhood safety and build stronger community ties. Participation in neighborhood watch programs can make a noticeable difference in reducing crime rates.

For more information on neighborhood programs, visit the St. Joseph Neighborhood Watch page.

Safety Rankings

In terms of safety rankings, St. Joseph ranks as a moderate-risk area compared to other cities in Missouri. It is ranked in the top 50% of safest cities in the state, with specific safety concerns revolving around property crime and drug-related offenses. However, the city’s efforts in crime prevention and community policing have helped improve safety over the years. When considering the entire Buchanan County area, the safety ranking improves substantially, especially in suburban and rural communities.

For more on safety rankings, visit SafeHome’s St. Joseph Safety Rankings.

Trend Data

Crime trends in Buchanan County have generally shown a decline over the past few years, particularly in violent crime. According to local reports, property crime has also seen a modest reduction, with community policing initiatives and increased law enforcement funding contributing to this positive trend. However, specific challenges, such as gang-related activities, still persist in St. Joseph, requiring ongoing attention from local authorities. The overall trend in the county suggests a steady improvement in public safety.

For trend analysis and crime data, refer to the City-Data’s St. Joseph crime page.

School Safety

School safety in Buchanan County is generally strong, with schools in the area reporting low incidences of violence or safety concerns. St. Joseph public schools have implemented various security measures, including resource officers at schools, surveillance systems, and anti-bullying programs. The school district has received commendations for its proactive approach to ensuring a safe environment for students. In rural areas, schools are typically smaller and face fewer safety concerns due to lower crime rates in the surrounding communities.

For more on school safety, visit the St. Joseph School District Safety page.

What are the demographics of Buchanan County, Missouri?

White

The White population in Buchanan County, Missouri, makes up approximately 81.6% of the total population, according to the most recent U.S. Census data from 2020. This represents a significant majority, with the total White population being roughly 85,000 people out of a total population of about 104,000 residents. The White population in Buchanan County is a mix of long-established residents and newer individuals who have moved to the area in recent years, particularly in St. Joseph, which is the county’s largest city.

For more details, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Black or African American

For more details, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Hispanic or Latino

Hispanic or Latino residents represent about 5.3% of Buchanan County’s population, equating to around 5,500 individuals. This demographic includes both long-time residents of Mexican and Central American descent, as well as more recent arrivals attracted by employment and educational opportunities in the area. The Hispanic population is growing in Buchanan County, with many of the community’s members living in and around St. Joseph.

For more information, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Two or More Races

For more on this, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Asian

For further data, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Native American

For more on this demographic, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

For more details, you can visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data for Buchanan County.

Sources

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County

Buchanan County, Missouri Population by Age and Gender

The total population of Buchanan County, Missouri is approximately 104,000, based on the most recent data from the 2020 U.S. Census. This number reflects the population living within the county’s urban and rural areas, with St. Joseph, the county seat, being the largest population center. The county has seen modest growth in recent years, contributing to a diverse demographic mix.

Total Population by Gender

For more details, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Age Distribution

• Under 5 years: 6.2% of the population
• 5 to 19 years: 19.5% of the population
• 20 to 64 years: 54.1% of the population
• 65 years and older: 20.2% of the population

This distribution indicates a large working-age population, with a significant proportion of residents in the 20 to 64 years age group, followed by a notable percentage of individuals aged 65 and over, reflecting the area’s relatively older median age.

For more information on age demographics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Gender Distribution within Age Groups

• Under 5 years: Approximately 51% males, 49% females
• 5 to 19 years: Approximately 49% males, 51% females
• 20 to 64 years: Approximately 48% males, 52% females
• 65 years and older: Approximately 45% males, 55% females

These gender trends reflect typical societal patterns, with a larger female population in older age groups due to the higher life expectancy among women.

For more data on gender distribution, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Median Age

For more information on median age, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Sex Ratio

For more on sex ratio data, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Sources

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data for Buchanan County

Buchanan County, Missouri Zip Codes

Buchanan County, Missouri, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

• 64501 – St. Joseph (Main area)
• 64502 – St. Joseph (Main area)
• 64503 – St. Joseph (East side)
• 64504 – St. Joseph (South side)
• 64505 – St. Joseph (North side)
• 64506 – St. Joseph (Northwest side)
• 64507 – St. Joseph (Southeast side)
• 64508 – St. Joseph (Southwest side)
• 64465 – Faucett
• 64474 – Gower
• 64477 – Hiawatha
• 64481 – Stewartsville
• 64490 – Wathena (partially in Buchanan County)

This ZIP code covers the majority of the Buchanan County, Missouri area.

What is the history of Buchanan County, Missouri?

History of Buchanan County, Missouri

Buchanan County, Missouri, has a rich and varied history that stretches back to its founding in the early 19th century. It was officially established in 1838, named after James Buchanan, who would later become the 15th President of the United States. The county’s early history was deeply influenced by the Missouri River, which served as both a transportation route and a hub for early settlers. St. Joseph, the county seat and largest city, was founded in 1843 and quickly became a major center of trade and commerce, thanks to its strategic location along the river.

Early Settlement and Growth

The first European-American settlers arrived in the area around the early 1830s, though the region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and the Missouri. The area saw an influx of settlers following the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which relocated Native American tribes from the southeastern United States to what is now Oklahoma. The fertile land and access to the Missouri River made Buchanan County a desirable location for farming and trade. St. Joseph was founded by a group of settlers, led by Joseph Robidoux, a French trader, in 1843. The settlement grew rapidly due to its river port and its connection to the Oregon Trail, which passed through the area, facilitating the westward migration of pioneers during the mid-1800s.

St. Joseph and the Westward Expansion

In 1846, St. Joseph gained national prominence as the starting point of the Pony Express, which began its first run to California. This moment marked a significant chapter in the city’s history, solidifying its position as a key transportation and communication center during the Westward Expansion. The city continued to grow rapidly during the 19th century, particularly due to its access to major railroad lines and the Missouri River, which facilitated both goods transportation and the movement of settlers heading west. The population of Buchanan County exploded during this time, with St. Joseph emerging as one of the most important cities in Missouri by the late 1800s.

The Civil War Era

During the Civil War, Buchanan County, like much of Missouri, was a battleground for control between Union and Confederate forces. St. Joseph, being a vital transportation hub, became a strategic target. Though Missouri was a border state with divided loyalties, St. Joseph remained a Union stronghold throughout the war. However, the region experienced significant unrest, and the county’s residents were involved in both military actions and political struggles. Despite the tensions of the Civil War, the county continued to grow economically, primarily due to its agricultural base and its role as a trade center.

Post-Civil War and 20th Century Development

After the Civil War, Buchanan County, particularly St. Joseph, experienced a period of recovery and growth. The economy diversified during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the city becoming a key center for manufacturing, particularly in the meatpacking industry, and trade. In the early 1900s, St. Joseph also became known for its educational institutions, including Missouri Western State University, which opened in 1915. The city’s role as a hub for commerce, education, and culture continued to strengthen as industries grew and expanded throughout the 20th century.

Modern-Day Buchanan County

Today, Buchanan County is known for its blend of rural charm and urban amenities. The city of St. Joseph remains the county’s economic and cultural heart, with a growing focus on technology, education, and tourism. St. Joseph is home to several historic sites, including the Pony Express National Historic Trail, the Missouri River, and the many beautiful Victorian-era buildings downtown. While agriculture remains an important part of the county’s economy, the region has increasingly diversified, and Buchanan County continues to attract new businesses and residents seeking a balance between small-town life and urban convenience.

Sources

• City of St. Joseph – History
• Buchanan County – History
• Missouri History Museum – American Centuries

Buchanan County, Missouri Weather

Buchanan County, Missouri, experiences a climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, typical of the humid subtropical climate of the Midwest. The area is subject to a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, along with significant seasonal variation in precipitation. Below is a detailed breakdown of the weather patterns for the region, including monthly averages, precipitation, and other weather-related factors. All figures are based on data from the most recent years available.

Average Temperature (by Month)

The average monthly temperature in Buchanan County, Missouri, varies significantly from winter to summer. Here is the monthly breakdown of average temperatures:

• January: High 38°F (3°C), Low 21°F (-6°C)
• February: High 42°F (6°C), Low 24°F (-4°C)
• March: High 51°F (10°C), Low 33°F (1°C)
• April: High 61°F (16°C), Low 43°F (6°C)
• May: High 71°F (22°C), Low 53°F (12°C)
• June: High 81°F (27°C), Low 63°F (17°C)
• July: High 89°F (32°C), Low 72°F (22°C)
• August: High 88°F (31°C), Low 71°F (22°C)
• September: High 78°F (26°C), Low 60°F (16°C)
• October: High 64°F (18°C), Low 45°F (7°C)
• November: High 50°F (10°C), Low 34°F (1°C)
• December: High 40°F (4°C), Low 25°F (-4°C)

Overall, the warmest months are June through August, while the coldest months are December and January. The average annual temperature in Buchanan County is about 58°F (14°C).

For more detailed data on temperature averages, refer to US Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO.

Precipitation Patterns

Buchanan County experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year. The region receives an average of 38 inches (965 mm) of precipitation annually. The wettest months are typically April through June, while the driest months are generally in the winter, specifically from December to February. Thunderstorms are common in the spring and summer, and the county occasionally experiences heavy rainfalls associated with these storms. Snowfall is more common in the winter, with an average annual snowfall of 8 inches (203 mm).

For more information on precipitation patterns, visit Weather.com Annual Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO.

Extreme Weather Events

Winter storms, although less frequent, can occasionally bring significant snowfall or ice storms, causing disruptions. On average, Buchanan County experiences a few winter storm events each year, although these tend to be less severe compared to other areas of the Midwest.

For further details on severe weather, refer to the National Weather Service Tornado Data.

Humidity Levels

For more on humidity levels, refer to US Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO.

Sunlight

For detailed sunlight data, visit US Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO.

Wind Patterns

For more on wind data, refer to Weather.com Annual Wind Data for St. Joseph, MO.

Comparison to State and National Averages

Sources

• US Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO
• Weather.com Annual Climate Data for St. Joseph, MO
• National Weather Service Tornado Data

Average Income in Buchanan County, Missouri

Average Annual Salary in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more detailed information, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey Income Data for Buchanan County.

Average Hourly Wage

For more details, visit Bureau of Labor Statistics – Missouri Employment Data.

Median Salary Range

For more information, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey Income Data for Buchanan County.

Most Popular Jobs/Careers in Buchanan County

For further details on employment sectors, see the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey Employment Data for Buchanan County.

Comparison to State and National Income Averages

For comparison data, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s Missouri Quick Facts.

Sources

• U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey Income Data for Buchanan County
• Bureau of Labor Statistics – Missouri Employment Data
• U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey Employment Data for Buchanan County
• U.S. Census Bureau – Missouri Quick Facts

Taxes in Buchanan County, Missouri

Property Taxes in Buchanan County, Missouri

The property tax rate in Buchanan County is approximately 1.07% of a property’s assessed value as of the most recent tax year. This rate is slightly higher than the Missouri state average, which typically falls between 0.9% and 1.1%. Property taxes are assessed by the Buchanan County Assessor’s office, and the revenue generated supports local services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure. The rate varies slightly depending on the specific district within the county.

For more information, visit the Buchanan County Assessor’s Office.

Sales Taxes in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information, visit the City of St. Joseph Finance Department.

Income Taxes in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more details, see the Missouri Department of Revenue’s Missouri Income Tax Information.

Utility Taxes in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information on local utility taxes, visit the City of St. Joseph Finance Department.

Hotel Occupancy Tax

For further details on hotel taxes, see the City of St. Joseph Revenue Office.

Comparison of Tax Statistics to State and National Averages

For more on Missouri tax comparisons, see the Missouri Department of Revenue – Tax Rates.

Sources

• Buchanan County Assessor’s Office
• City of St. Joseph Finance Department
• Missouri Department of Revenue – Income Tax Information
• City of St. Joseph Revenue Office
• Missouri Department of Revenue – Tax Rates

Is Buchanan County, Missouri a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities in Buchanan County, Missouri

Buchanan County offers a variety of events and activities for singles, especially in St. Joseph, which is the county’s largest city. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the annual “St. Joseph Festival of the Arts,” “First Fridays” downtown events, and regular live music performances. Additionally, the city is home to several museums and cultural attractions such as the Pony Express Museum and the St. Joseph Museums, which provide great opportunities for social engagement and exploring local history. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy local parks like Krug Park and the nearby Missouri River, offering hiking, biking, and fishing spots that can be enjoyed solo or with friends.

For more on local events, visit Visit St. Joseph’s official tourism page.

Gyms in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more gym options in Buchanan County, see Yahoo search for gyms in St. Joseph, MO.

Housing for Singles in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information on available rentals in Buchanan County, visit Zillow’s St. Joseph rental listings.

Percentage of Single Residents in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more demographic statistics, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Comparison to State and National Single Statistics

For comparison data, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau’s QuickFacts – U.S. Census Bureau.

Sources

• Visit St. Joseph’s official tourism page
• Yahoo search for gyms in St. Joseph, MO
• Zillow’s St. Joseph rental listings
• 2021 Census Data for Buchanan County
• QuickFacts – U.S. Census Bureau

Is Buchanan County, Missouri Good for Families?

Buchanan County, Missouri, offers a variety of advantages for families looking to settle in a quieter, affordable area. The crime rate, while higher in St. Joseph than in rural parts of the county, is relatively moderate compared to national averages. The area enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters, although residents may face the occasional extreme weather event. Housing is affordable, with homes typically priced lower than the national average, and rental options are similarly reasonable. Employment opportunities are abundant in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and education, particularly in St. Joseph, making it a stable area for family life.

Parks and Family Activities in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more on local events and activities, visit Visit St. Joseph’s official tourism page.

Restaurants in Buchanan County, Missouri

• Italian Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• Mexican Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• BBQ Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• American Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO

Housing for Families in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information on homes for sale in Buchanan County, visit Zillow’s listings for St. Joseph, MO.

Percentage of Family Residents in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more demographic information, see the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Census Data for Buchanan County.

Comparison to State and National Family Statistics

For comparison data, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s QuickFacts – U.S. Census Bureau.

Sources

• Visit St. Joseph’s official tourism page
• Bing Map – Italian Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• Bing Map – Mexican Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• Bing Map – BBQ Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• Bing Map – American Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO
• Zillow’s listings for St. Joseph, MO
• 2021 Census Data for Buchanan County
• QuickFacts – U.S. Census Bureau

How are the schools in Buchanan County, Missouri?

Buchanan County, Missouri, offers a variety of educational options for families with children, ranging from early education to higher education. The county is served by several school districts, with funding primarily coming from local property taxes, state funding, and federal aid. The public schools in St. Joseph, the largest city in the county, are managed by the St. Joseph School District, which has a strong reputation for academic performance. The district provides a range of educational services from pre-kindergarten through high school, with a focus on college preparation and vocational training. The average school funding in the county is higher than the state average, and student performance generally aligns with the Missouri state average, with some schools performing above the state’s proficiency levels in key subjects like math and reading.

Pre-K Schools in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more details, visit the St. Joseph School District’s Early Childhood Program page.

Kindergarten Schools in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information on the kindergarten programs, visit the St. Joseph School District’s Schools page.

Elementary Schools in Buchanan County, Missouri

For a list of elementary schools and more details, see the St. Joseph School District’s Schools page.

Middle Schools in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more on middle school education in the district, visit the St. Joseph School District’s Schools page.

High Schools in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more information on high schools in Buchanan County, visit the St. Joseph School District’s High Schools page.

Colleges & Universities in Buchanan County, Missouri

For more on Missouri Western State University, visit the university’s official website.

Churches in Buchanan County, Missouri

• First Baptist Church – St. Joseph
• St. Joseph Lutheran Church
• Lighthouse Church – St. Joseph
• Grace Evangelical Church
• Bethany Baptist Church
• St. Patrick Catholic Church – St. Joseph
• Oxford Bible Fellowship Church
• Brookwood Church
• Westminster Presbyterian Church – St. Joseph

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Buchanan County, Missouri

Moving to Buchanan County, Missouri offers a unique opportunity for a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to its affordable housing, strong community values, or the rich array of recreational activities, this county provides an excellent place to call home. The blend of urban amenities in St. Joseph with the charm of the surrounding rural areas creates a welcoming environment for families, singles, and retirees alike. With good schools, a variety of dining and entertainment options, and a range of housing to fit different needs, Buchanan County has something for everyone. The lower cost of living, combined with friendly neighborhoods and a steady job market, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter, more affordable way of life without sacrificing convenience. All in all, Buchanan County offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern convenience, making it a wonderful place to start your next chapter.