Moving to a new town or state is a big change and can be costly. Before you make any move, it’s important to know the cost of living in your chosen destination.
Luckily, we’ve crunched the numbers and determined what the cost of living in St. Joseph, MO is.
Housing Costs in St. Joseph MO
If you’re looking for a place to live, you may be tempted to consider the low house prices in St. Joseph. However, this may not be the most cost-effective option for you. Apartments in St. Joseph can be quite expensive, with some costing more than $1,000 per month. This is because there’s limited supply and many people are competing for these places.
If you decide that owning a house is the better option for you and your family, you may be able to save quite significantly, both in terms of money and time, as you won’t have to pay for rent again. You’ll also be able to plant your own garden to enjoy fresh produce all year long, cut down on your energy bills, and gain some stability, privacy, and security. So you can check some houses for sale St Joseph MO and see what they offer.
Utilities Costs
Electricity costs are likely to be higher in St. Joseph than most other places, as our weather is perfect for air-conditioning. Similarly, natural gas costs are high, because the production is also focused here. This leaves you with a higher cost of living overall. You may also have higher water bills due to the warm climate.
However, the good thing about these high costs is that they provide you with more money in your pocket, which you can then use to shop for bargains and discounts, both locally and online. Check out Groupon for deals that will save you money on your utilities and other costs of living.
Transportation Costs
The cost of getting around town is also likely to be higher in St. Joseph. This is due to the lack of mass transit options, except for the odd bus here and there. The alternative is to rely on your own two feet, which can be costly if you are prone to falling over due to fatigue after a long day at work. This is why some people choose to live in a more remote location, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet within easy reach of major employers, tourist attractions, and educational hubs.
Child Care Costs
Child care is extremely pricey in St. Joseph, which might explain why many families in the area depend on grandparents to provide child care. The cost of children’s daycare is more than many parents can afford without dipping into their savings, so this is certainly a financial hardship for families who need this service.
If you’re looking to become a more responsible and engaged parent, one option is a family child care center, where you’ll find high-quality instructors and activities designed to engage your children while you pursue your own interests. This might be a perfect option for your needs.
Clothing Costs
As for the clothing costs, you’d expect them to be higher in St. Joseph due to the warm climate and overall relaxed style of the area. Jeans and a t-shirt will probably be your everyday uniform, as well as warm winter clothes. Hats, gloves, and scarfs are essential items for men, while women may want to pick up some sturdier shoes for the sake of their feet’s health.
Entertainment
Entertainment is another area where you can spend a lot of money without realizing it. To save you money on your entertainment, watch less TV and listen to less music. Also, take your dog for walks less frequently – one walk per week is enough for most dogs (less than 20 pounds). Finally, set up a deal with your friends to trade films/TV shows with each other. This is a great way to save money while still enjoying your life.
Utilities
The last thing anyone wants to pay for in their monthly budget is utilities. Whether you use a lot of energy or not, the cost of utilities is always high. To save you money on your utilities, install solar panels or use energy-saving appliances. Additionally, if you can afford it, become a part of a community that offers shared electric vehicles. This will reduce your cost of transportation and save you money on your utilities.
As you can see, there are several ways that your costs of living in Saint Joseph could increase, or elsewhere in Missouri. It’s important to note that most of these costs aren’t going to be fixed by simply wishing or hoping for the best. You’ll have to be committed to saving money in order to make it happen. However, if you are able to become more frugal or spend less money in the first place, fixing all of these issues will be much easier. Thanks for reading! We hope this article has helped you in your quest to lower your costs of moving and living in St. Joseph.
After reading this blog post on What is The Cost of Living In St. Joseph MO?, be sure to check out our post on What is the Average Cost to Move a 3 Bedroom House Locally? for more great tips!
Have Experience in the Moving Industry? Want an Additional Income Stream? Work With All Around Moving!
Moving relocation consultants! There are no recurring expenses, except purchasing your own leads. We share profits 50-50 with you from all jobs you book with us. Click here to learn more.