Jefferson City, MO, United States

Capital City

At just 35,200 residents, Jefferson City is a sleepy state capital struggling to attract residents and jobs beyond its role as an administrative center. The tax burden is heavy, with government and manufacturing being the main economic drivers. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city is home to numerous state agencies and the Missouri State Penitentiary, which once housed infamous inmates like Sonny Liston and James Earl Ray. While the town offers some historic charm and outdoor recreation along the Missouri River, its remote location and harsh continental climate make it a tough sell for all but the most dedicated civil servants and retirees content with a slower pace of life.