All About Missouri From Symbols to Major Cities
Missouri became the 24th state on August 10, 1821.Its name comes from a Native word meaning “town of the large canoes.”State motto: “The welfare of the people shall be the supreme law.”
The flag has red, white, and blue stripes with the state seal at the center.
State Symbols
| Symbol | Official Choice |
|---|---|
| 🐦 Bird | Eastern Bluebird |
| 🌸 Flower | White Hawthorn Blossom |
| 🌳 Tree | Flowering Dogwood |
| 🐴 Animal | Missouri Mule |
| 🍇 Grape | Norton/Cynthiana Grape |
| 🪨 Rock | Mozarkite |
| 🐸 Amphibian | North American Bullfrog |
| 🐟 Fish | Channel Catfish |
Geography & Infrastructure
- Missouri borders eight states — more than almost any other state.
- Total area: 69,709 square miles (21st largest).
- Two great rivers run along its borders: the Mississippi and the Missouri.
- Major cities: Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, Independence, St. Joseph.
- Area codes: 314, 417, 573, 636, 660, 816.
- Zip codes run from 63001 to 65899.
- Official website: mo.gov
Government & People
Missouri’s population is about 6.3 million in 2026 — ranked 18th in the U.S.Growth is slow but steady, driven mostly by people moving in from other states.
🏛️ Governor Mike Kehoe leads the state as of 2026.
Republicans hold the Governor’s office and both chambers — a full trifecta.
All House seats are up for election in 2026 (2-year terms
Tourism & Climate
Missouri is packed with things to see and do beyond the Gateway Arch. 🌿
- 🏞️ Ozark Mountains — caves, rivers, and trails perfect for outdoor lovers
- 💧 Ha Ha Tonka State Park — castle ruins, sinkholes, and natural bridges
- ✍️ Mark Twain Boyhood Home (Hannibal) — birthplace of Tom Sawyer
- 🌉 Gateway Arch (St. Louis) — tallest U.S. monument at 630 feet
- 🎵 Branson — Midwest’s live music capital with 50+ theaters
- 🍷 Hermann — scenic wine country along the river
It has four clear seasons: cold snowy winters, rainy springs, hot summers, and cool colorful falls.Temps range from ~29°F in January to ~88°F in July.
🌪️ Tornado Watch: Missouri sees 30–40 tornadoes a year. Spring (April–June) is the riskiest season. Always know your nearest shelter!
Economy & Education
Missouri’s GDP reached $358 billion in 2025 — up 1.3% from 2024.It’s one of the most affordable states, ranking 7th lowest in cost of living. 💼
| Sector | Key Detail |
|---|---|
| 🌾 Agriculture | Top producer of soybeans, corn, hogs & cattle |
| ✈️ Aerospace | Boeing is a major employer near St. Louis |
| 🏥 Healthcare | One of the fastest-growing job sectors |
| 🏭 Manufacturing | Auto parts, chemicals, food processing |
| 🚗 Transportation | 10 interstate highways cross the state |
| 💰 Per Capita Income | $64,740 in 2024 — ranked 34th |
Top universities: University of Missouri (Mizzou), Washington University in St. Louis, State University.