The median household income in Missouri is $61,000. Using the 15% of take-home pay guideline, the maximum affordable monthly car payment for a typical MO household is around $572.
At that income level, the typical Missouri buyer can comfortably finance a $31,000 vehicle over 60 months without overextending. Stretching to 72 or 84 months reduces monthly payments but significantly increases total interest paid.
Missouri has a state income tax of 2%–4.95%, which reduces take-home pay and effective car buying power.
The cost of living in Missouri is 89 (national average = 100). Lower living costs in Missouri free up more household cash flow for car payments and other goals.