If you’re a real estate agent—or thinking about becoming one—Missouri might not be the first state that comes to mind. But maybe it should be. With a mix of affordable housing, growing cities, and a variety of markets (residential, commercial, and manufactured housing), Missouri is one of the most underrated places to build a real estate career.

Let’s break down the best cities in Missouri to work as a real estate agent and what makes each one a solid choice.

1. Kansas City – Big City, Bigger Opportunity

Why it works for agents:

• Diverse neighborhoods: From upscale areas like Brookside to growing suburbs like Liberty.
• There is a lot more demand than you think: Millennials buying first homes, families upgrading, and retirees downsizing.
• Revitalization: New commercial and mixed-use projects in downtown and Crossroads.

Hot markets:

• Residential
• Commercial leasing
• Manufactured housing on the outskirts

Pro tip: Focus on new construction and suburban growth corridors like Lee’s Summit and Northland.

2. St. Louis – Historic Meets Modern

Why agents thrive here:

• Lots of housing variety—from 1800s townhomes to suburban ranches.
• Huge rental market near universities and hospitals.
• Strong commercial scene downtown and in the Cortex Innovation District.

Hot markets:

• Historic residential neighborhoods
• Small business commercial space
• Manufactured housing in St. Charles and surrounding counties

Pro tip: Agents who niche down into historic home sales or urban redevelopment stand out fast.

3. Springfield – Affordable and Growing

Why it’s a hidden gem:

• Home to Missouri State University—hello, rental demand!
• Lots of affordable housing for first-time buyers and investors.
• Downtown is booming with restaurants, breweries, and boutique offices.

Hot markets:

• Residential flips
• Downtown retail/commercial space
• Manufactured homes outside the city (especially with retirees)

Pro tip: Build relationships with local builders and manufactured home dealerships for a steady lead flow.

4. Columbia – Steady, Stable, and Smart

Why it stands out:

• University town = consistent rental turnover and steady buyer interest.
• Tons of professionals, students, and faculty need homes year-round.
• Office and retail space in high demand near campus and downtown.

Hot markets:

• Residential rentals and student housing
• Small-scale commercial
• Manufactured housing in rural Boone County

Pro tip: If you’re great with repeat business and networking, Columbia’s your town.

5. Branson – Tourism-Fueled Real Estate

Why it’s different (in a good way):

• Huge short-term rental market thanks to tourism.
• Great for second-home buyers and investors looking for Airbnb potential.
• Commercial space thrives around theaters, attractions, and restaurants.

Hot markets:

• Vacation homes
• Retail and restaurant leases
• Manufactured housing for seasonal workers and retirees

Pro tip: Learn the vacation rental game. Commission checks here can be big.

6. Cape Girardeau – Small Town, Big Potential

What makes it work:

• Low housing prices attract families and first-time buyers.
• Revitalization along the riverfront = opportunity for savvy agents.
• Good mix of residential and light commercial real estate.

Hot markets:

• Budget-friendly residential
• Logistics and warehouse space
• Manufactured homes and mobile parks on the outskirts

Pro tip: If you’re looking to stand out in a smaller market, this could be your move.

7. Lee’s Summit – Suburban and Strong

Why people are moving here:

• Great schools, safe neighborhoods, and a short drive to Kansas City.
• Perfect for young families and first-time homebuyers.
• Tons of new home construction = listings and commissions.

Hot markets:

• Residential subdivisions
• Neighborhood commercial space
• Rural manufactured homes nearby

Pro tip: Join local Facebook groups and parent networks—this city loves word-of-mouth referrals.

8. Jefferson City – Steady Government Market

Why it stays strong:

• Government employees form a steady and reliable buyer pool.
• Affordable housing compared to other state capitals.
• The local economy supports small law offices, service businesses, and retail.

Hot markets:

• Residential for government workers
• Office space near the capitol
• Manufactured housing in nearby counties

Pro tip: Tailor your listings and marketing to state workers and relocating professionals.

9. Joplin – Resilient and Rebuilding

Why it’s worth a look:

• Affordable housing, new builds, and great community spirit.
• Strong logistics and transportation economy = steady commercial demand.
• Great manufactured housing potential after previous rebuild efforts.

Hot markets:

• Entry-level residential
• Light industrial and trucking spaces
• Manufactured homes in family-oriented parks

Pro tip: Pitch affordability and convenience to out-of-area investors.

10. O’Fallon – Suburban Star Near St. Louis

What makes it hot:

• One of the fastest-growing suburbs in Missouri.
• Strong demand for new homes and family-friendly communities.
• Schools, parks, and newer infrastructure attract move-up buyers.

Hot markets:

• Single-family homes
• Strip malls and service-based commercial spaces
• Manufactured housing nearby (Route 94 corridor)

Pro tip: Focus on builders and developers—you’ll be one of the first to get new listings.

Honorable Mentions

• Blue Springs – Kansas City suburb with lots of new construction and growing retail strips.
• Sedalia – Between KC and Columbia, with a good mix of residential and industrial real estate.
• Farmington – Rural charm with affordable manufactured housing stock.

What Makes Missouri a Great Place to Be an Agent?

• Affordability: The median home price in Missouri is still well below the national average, which keeps deals moving.
• Diverse Markets: From vacation homes in Branson to high-tech redevelopment in St. Louis, there’s something for every kind of agent.
• Underserved Manufactured Housing Markets: There’s less competition in this niche, and clients are often loyal. Rural towns and smaller cities offer consistent demand.
• Growing Suburbs: Suburban sprawl in cities like Lee’s Summit, O’Fallon, and Blue Springs is creating brand-new neighborhoods—aka lots of listings.
• Opportunity to Specialize: You can be the go-to expert for vacation homes, government relocation, commercial leasing, or manufactured home resales—whatever fits your style.

Tips for Real Estate Agents in Missouri

• Pick Your Niche: Don’t be everything to everyone. Want to focus on manufactured housing, commercial leasing, or historic homes? There’s a city on this list for you.
• Partner With Local Builders & Developers: This is how you get exclusive listings and early leads.
• Use MLS Systems That Support Statewide Listings: Look into platforms like MyState MLS or 50 State Listings to expand your reach across multiple cities.
• Get Involved in Community Groups: Local business chambers, school events, and networking mixers are goldmines for leads.
• Embrace Digital Marketing: These are family-oriented, working-class buyers. A solid Facebook presence, community blog, or email newsletter goes a long way here.

Final Thoughts

Missouri is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. Whether you’re a new agent or an experienced broker looking for a lower-cost market with high upside, this is a state full of hidden gems.

From vacation-heavy Branson to college-town Columbia to manufactured-home-rich Springfield, Missouri offers real estate professionals real chances to grow—without having to fight for scraps in oversaturated coastal markets.

So go ahead—pick a city, pick a niche, and get to work. Missouri’s ready and waiting.