Located in the Central U.S., Missouri CORE is strategically situated halfway between St. Louis and Kansas City. Our region is ranked as one of the 15 lowest business cost areas nationwide (Forbes, “Best Small Places” 2008).

Central U.S. Location
• Within 500 miles of 43 percent of the U.S. population.
• Strategically located near the geographic and population centers of the U.S.

Skilled and Productive Workforce
• Solid Midwestern work ethic.
• High school graduation rate and ACT scores exceed U.S. averages.

Low Business Costs
• Forbes magazine rates Jefferson City 10th- and Columbia 13th-lowest for cost of doing business of U.S. metros (Forbes, “Best Small Places” 2008).
• Median wages are well below state and U.S. rates.
• Cost of living is 10 percent less than national average.

Four-Year Universities and Colleges
• Central Methodist University (Fayette)
• Columbia College (Columbia)
• Lincoln University (Jefferson City)
• Stephens College (Columbia)
• University of Missouri (Columbia)
• Westminster College (Fulton)
• William Woods University (Fulton)

Technical and Community Colleges
• Advanced Technology Center (Mexico)
• Linn State Technical College (Linn)
• Moberly Area Community College (Moberly)
• State Fair Community College (Osage Beach)

Excellent Recreational Opportunities
• Lake of the Ozarks—1,100 miles of shoreline, 17 golf courses, resorts, boating, and more!
• Katy Trail - Cross-state bike trail on former RR track.
• Hunting, fishing, hiking
• Sailing, boating

Sports and Entertainment
• Mizzou sports
• Professional and community theater, orchestras and concerts
• Unique shops, boutiques and outlet malls
• Exceptional dining
• Isle of Capri Casino
• Five wineries