Missouri
Welcome to Missouri
Missouri, the Show-Me State, boasts a unique blend of Midwestern charm, rich history, and vibrant communities. From the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the natural beauty of the Ozarks, Missouri offers a diverse living experience that combines urban convenience with rural tranquility. Its deep military heritage is reflected in landmarks, military bases, and a strong network of veteran services, making it a welcoming state for military families.
With a thriving economy fueled by agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, Missouri provides a solid foundation for veterans and their families to build their futures. The state's affordable cost of living, coupled with robust veteran support programs, makes it an ideal location for those seeking stability and opportunity. Whether you're drawn to bustling cities or peaceful countryside, Missouri offers the best of both worlds.
Major Missouri Cities
Missouri's largest cities reflect the state's diverse character and cultural richness. From the dynamic urban centers to the quieter towns, each area contributes to Missouri's identity as a welcoming and thriving state for veterans and civilians alike.
Quick Links To Other City Pages
Veteran Benefits in Missouri
Missouri extends a wide array of benefits to veterans, encompassing financial incentives, education, and recreational perks. From tax exemptions to tuition assistance, Missouri ensures its veterans and their families are well supported throughout their lives.
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Missouri Veterans Homes
Missouri has seven veterans homes located in Cameron, Cape Girardeau, Mexico, Mt. Vernon, St. James, St. Louis, and Warrensburg. To be eligible for admission, a veteran must have lived in Missouri for 180 days, require skilled nursing care, and have an other than dishonorable discharge.
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Missouri Veteran Financial Benefits
Active duty pay and reserve pay are exempt from income tax. Military retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan benefits are tax-free. The Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim offers credits to some 100% VA disabled veterans for a portion of real estate taxes or rent paid.
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Missouri Veteran Education Benefits
The Missouri Returning Heroes Act limits undergraduate tuition at state colleges to no more than $50 per credit hour for eligible veterans. The War Veteran’s Survivor Grant Program is available to children and spouses of veterans whose deaths or injuries were a result of combat action.
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Missouri Veteran Employment Benefits
Missouri veterans receive a five-point preference when testing for state employment positions, with a ten-point preference for service-connected disabled veterans. Spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify. Additionally, active duty or retired military can get a waiver of the skills testing portion of a CDL.
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Missouri Veteran Recreation Benefits
Any honorably discharged veteran with a service-connected disability of 60% or more can fish or hunt without a permit. Guard and reserve members recently mobilized under federal orders can get a fishing and hunting license for $5. Active duty members and their families stationed in Missouri can get hunting and fishing licenses at the resident rate.
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State Veterans Cemeteries
Missouri has five state veterans cemeteries in Springfield, Higginsville, Bloomfield, Ft. Leonard Wood, and Jacksonville. There is no charge for services provided, and eligibility is the same as for a federal cemetery. Spouses and dependent children may also be eligible for burial.
Missouri's Military Presence
Missouri plays a vital role in supporting the U.S. military through its strategic installations and bases. These facilities contribute significantly to national defense and provide essential services to veterans and active-duty personnel. From large training facilities to smaller support stations, Missouri's military infrastructure enhances readiness and community involvement.
- Fort Leonard Wood: A premier U.S. Army installation known for its engineering, chemical defense, and military police training.
- Whiteman Air Force Base: Home to the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, providing strategic deterrence and operational readiness.
- Rosecrans Air National Guard Base: A critical facility supporting Air Mobility Command operations and airlift capabilities.
- Camp Clark: A Missouri National Guard training site, crucial for operational readiness and military exercises.
VA Loans in Missouri
VA Home Loan Volume in 2024 in Missouri*
|
Total Loans |
9,053 |
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Average Loan Amount |
$284,605 |
|
Total Loan Amount (ALL) |
$2,576,533,384 |
|
Total Purchase Loans |
6,161 |
|
Total Purchase Loans % |
68.05% |
|
Total IRRRL Loans |
1,353 |
|
Total IRRRL Loans % |
14.95% |
|
Total Cash-Out Loans |
1,539 |
|
Total Cash-Out Loans % |
17.00% |
*Data pulled from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Missouri VA Loan Requirements
VA loan requirements in Missouri follow the same guidelines as other states, with eligibility criteria tied to service history. Veterans, active-duty personnel, and some surviving spouses can qualify based on their length and type of service.
To qualify for a VA loan, you generally need to meet one of the following service requirements:
- 90 days of active service during wartime
- 181 continuous days of active service during peacetime
- 6 or more years of service in the National Guard or Reserves
- Unremarried surviving spouse of a servicemember who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability
Additional conditions for VA loans include:
- Funding Fee: A one-time fee that varies based on down payment and military category. Some may qualify for exemptions.
- Occupancy Requirement: Borrowers typically must occupy the home within 60 days of closing.
- Primary Residence Use: VA loans are strictly for primary residences, not investment properties.
Missouri VA Loan Limits
VA loan limits in Missouri are typically $766,550 for a single-family home in most counties. Loan limits may vary annually based on housing market adjustments.
These limits don't cap borrowing but rather define the maximum amount covered by the VA without a down payment. Veterans with full entitlement can borrow above these limits if approved by the lender.
VA Loan Entitlement in Missouri
Entitlement reflects the amount the VA will guarantee on a loan. There are two main types:
- Full Entitlement: Veterans can borrow without a down payment, limited only by the lender's approval.
- Remaining Entitlement: If part of your entitlement is already used, you can still access benefits for another home, subject to VA loan limits.
VA Loan Rates in Missouri
VA loan rates in Missouri vary based on market conditions and personal factors such as credit score and income. VA loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to conventional loans due to the VA's guarantee.
Types of VA Mortgage Programs in Missouri
- VA Purchase Loan: Enables veterans to buy a home with no down payment and favorable terms.
- VA Cash-Out Refinance: Refinance up to 100% of your home’s value to access cash.
- VA Streamline Refinance (IRRRL): A simplified process to refinance existing VA loans to lower interest rates.
How to Get a VA Loan in Missouri
To secure a VA loan in Missouri, follow these steps:
- Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This document proves you meet VA service requirements. Lenders can help you apply.
- Choose a VA-Approved Lender: Work with an experienced VA lender to determine the right loan type.
- Find a Property: VA loans can be used for single-family homes, condos, and multi-unit properties.
- Appraisal and Approval: A VA-certified appraiser will evaluate the property, followed by lender approval.
- Close the Loan: After approval, finalize the process by signing necessary paperwork and receiving loan funds.
VA loans offer numerous advantages, making homeownership more accessible and affordable for veterans in Missouri.
Real Estate in Missouri
Missouri’s real estate market offers a diverse array of housing options, catering to urban professionals, suburban families, and rural homesteaders alike. From the bustling metropolitan areas of St. Louis and Kansas City to the tranquil countryside and scenic Ozarks, Missouri provides attractive opportunities for homebuyers and investors. The state’s affordability, coupled with various veteran benefits like property tax exemptions and mortgage assistance programs, makes it an appealing destination for veterans and active military families seeking to establish roots.
Missouri’s commitment to veteran homeowners extends beyond tax breaks, offering unique mortgage programs and housing support through the Missouri Veterans Commission and the Veterans’ Home Purchase Board. This combination of financial benefits and affordable housing ensures that veterans can enjoy a high quality of life without excessive financial strain. Whether you prefer the charm of small towns or the vibrancy of urban centers, Missouri's housing market has something for everyone.
Median Sale Price of Homes in Missouri*
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Kansas City |
$275,000 |
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St. Louis |
$215,000 |
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Springfield |
$216,250 |
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Independence |
$205,000 |
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Columbia |
$345,000 |
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Lee's Summit |
$380,000 |
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O'Fallon |
$355,000 |
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Missouri Statewide Average |
$263,300 |
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*Data sourced from Redfin (January 2025)
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Military Home Spot Lending and our services. Can't find what your need? Get in touch with us.
A VA Loan is a mortgage loan available to veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. It offers significant benefits, including no down payment and competitive interest rates. To qualify, applicants must meet service duration requirements and obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Curious if you qualify? Learn more here.
The process begins with obtaining your COE, which verifies your eligibility. Then, connect with a VA-approved lender to guide you through the application and loan approval process. Our team is here to help – start here.
VA Loans offer several advantages, including no private mortgage insurance (PMI), lower interest rates, and flexible credit requirements. This makes homeownership more accessible for veterans and active-duty personnel. Find out why VA Loans are a great choice – click here.
Yes! VA Loans are known for being more forgiving with credit scores compared to conventional loans. Even if your credit score isn’t perfect, you may still qualify. Learn more about VA Loan credit requirements – find out here.
In most counties, the VA Loan limit aligns with the national standard, but certain counties may have higher limits. These limits do not cap the amount you can borrow but determine the no-down-payment threshold. Learn more about loan limits.
Yes, through a VA Streamline Refinance (IRRRL) or a Cash-Out Refinance. This allows you to lower your interest rate or access cash from your home’s equity. Interested in refinancing? Get started here.
No, VA Loans do not require PMI, which can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. This benefit is one of the key advantages of choosing a VA Loan.
You can apply as soon as you meet the minimum service requirements, even while still on active duty. If you’re ready to buy a home, apply now.