St Joseph MO

St. Joseph, MO – Tucked along the banks of the Missouri River, St. Joseph blends small-town charm with a rich tapestry of American history. From its role as the starting point of the Pony Express to its ties to the infamous outlaw Jesse James, the city offers a unique mix of the Old West and Midwest hospitality. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, strolling through scenic parks, or enjoying local eats, St. Joseph invites you to slow down and take in its timeless appeal.

• Population: ~72,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70–90°F), snowy winters (20–40°F), and mild spring and fall.
• Places To Visit: Pony Express Museum, Jesse James Home Museum, Krug Park, Remington Nature Center, St. Joseph Museum.
• Top Activities: Walking along the Riverfront Park, visiting historic sites, attending local festivals, biking the park trails, browsing antique shops.
• Famous Food: BBQ ribs at Bandana’s, handmade chocolates at Russell Stover, steak at Boudreaux’s, and local brews from River Bluff Brewing.

St. Joseph, Missouri is a growing city with deep roots in manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. As one of the key economic centers in northwest Missouri, it offers a strong job market for skilled professionals. Below are the top careers currently in demand in St. Joseph, MO.

Top 5 Jobs in St. Joseph, MO

St. Joseph, MO, may be a smaller city, but it's full of hidden gems where students can wind down, have fun, and make great memories. Whether you're into exploring nature, enjoying a good coffee, or savoring local culture, St. Joseph has you covered.

Krug Park – This historic city park offers beautiful landscapes, a lagoon, and even a castle-like stone structure. It's perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk while enjoying nature.

Riverfront Park – Located along the Missouri River, this park offers scenic views and is ideal for a relaxing day with friends. You can bike, walk along the trails, or simply enjoy the river breeze.

Java Joe's Coffee – A cozy coffee shop where students can relax with a cup of coffee or tea. It's a great spot to study, meet friends, or just enjoy some downtime.

Downtown St. Joseph – With its vintage shops, cool eateries, and quaint boutiques, Downtown St. Joseph is perfect for an afternoon stroll or to grab a bite with friends.

Missouri Theatre – Check out live performances, concerts, and events at this beautiful and historic venue. It offers cultural experiences that are both enjoyable and enriching.

Patee House Museum – Dive into history at this fascinating museum. Learning about the city's past while exploring unique exhibits can be a fun and informative way to spend an afternoon.

Felix Street Pub – A lively spot for students to hang out and listen to live music. It's great for a night out with friends where you can enjoy a laid-back vibe and local entertainment.

St. Joseph, Missouri, is home to a variety of higher education institutions that offer quality academic programs and valuable opportunities for students. The city supports a strong education system that helps prepare students for rewarding careers in healthcare, education, business, and more.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in St. Joseph

Missouri Western State University – Known for its strong programs in nursing, education, criminal justice, and business, Missouri Western serves as the region’s flagship public university. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees and plays a key role in workforce development.

Hillyard Technical Center – Though not a traditional college, Hillyard offers accredited technical and vocational programs in healthcare, skilled trades, and technology, making it an essential part of public education in the community.

MWSU Law Enforcement Academy – Operating through Missouri Western, this public training program prepares future police officers with practical and academic instruction, supporting public safety throughout the region.

Northwest Missouri State University (Satellite Programs) – While the main campus is in Maryville, some programs are available in St. Joseph through partnerships, especially in education and business, offering local residents additional public education options.

St. Joseph School District Adult Learning Center – A publicly funded program offering adult education and GED preparation, this center helps individuals advance their education and workforce readiness.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in St. Joseph

Vatterott College (St. Joseph Campus, formerly) – While now closed, Vatterott once played an important role in private vocational education in St. Joseph, offering training in business, healthcare, and skilled trades.

American Business & Technology University (ABTU) – Though no longer accredited as a traditional university, ABTU was based in St. Joseph and offered online programs in business, IT, and healthcare, with a focus on adult learners and career advancement.

Platt College (formerly St. Joseph location) – Another now-closed institution, Platt College offered private education in healthcare and business, contributing to the city's training resources during its operation.

Park University (Satellite Programs) – Based in Parkville, Missouri, Park University offers satellite and online programs that serve many in the St. Joseph area. Their flexible formats are ideal for working adults, especially in business, criminal justice, and public service.

Benedictine College (Nearby – Atchison, KS) – Just under 30 minutes from downtown St. Joseph, Benedictine is a private Catholic liberal arts college offering strong undergraduate programs in theology, education, and science-related fields. Many St. Joseph students attend due to its academic reputation and close proximity.

St. Joseph, Missouri, offers solid educational options for high school students. The city is home to several public and private schools that aim to prepare students for higher education and future careers. These schools focus on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal development.

Top Public High Schools in St. Joseph, MO

• Central High School – One of the largest public schools in the area, Central offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, arts programs, and sports. The school supports student success through tutoring and college prep services.
• Benton High School – Known for its strong sense of community and school spirit, Benton High School offers career and technical education programs that help students explore their interests beyond the classroom.
• Lafayette High School – With a focus on student engagement and academic growth, Lafayette offers honors classes, fine arts, and athletics. The school maintains partnerships with local colleges to support dual-credit opportunities.
• Hillyard Technical Center – While not a traditional high school, Hillyard offers specialized programs for high school students in health sciences, welding, automotive, and computer technology. Students from other high schools in the district can attend part-time for career-focused education.
• Bishop LeBlond High School (Public-Private Collaboration) – Though technically a private school, Bishop LeBlond also has several collaborative programs open to public school participation. It's a standout for its small class sizes and rigorous faith-based education.

Top Private High Schools in St. Joseph, MO

• Bishop LeBlond High School – This Catholic high school emphasizes academic excellence, service, and leadership. With small class sizes, students get personalized attention and a strong college-prep experience.
• St. Joseph Christian School – A faith-based private school known for its friendly environment and strong academic focus. It offers small classes, athletic opportunities, and a college-track curriculum.
• Plaza Heights Christian Academy (nearby in Blue Springs, MO) – While not in St. Joseph proper, this school is a top choice for families in the region seeking Christian education with an emphasis on moral development and academic achievement.
• Living Word Christian School – Offers a full curriculum with a Christian worldview. This school values spiritual growth along with strong academics and extracurricular involvement.
• Faith Christian School – A smaller private school focused on individualized learning and Christian discipleship. It provides a nurturing setting for students aiming to achieve both spiritual and academic goals.

St. Joseph, Missouri, is a charming Midwestern city known for its history, culture, and sense of community. While it does not host any major league professional sports teams of its own, the city is passionate about sports and supports various teams on the regional level, especially from the nearby Kansas City area.

🏈 Football – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

• Kansas City Chiefs – Based just about an hour away, the Chiefs are one of the NFL’s premier teams. They have won three Super Bowl titles (1969, 2019, and 2023). Led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, the team has thrilled local fans and brought championship energy to the region.

⚾ Baseball – Kansas City Royals (MLB)

• Kansas City Royals – The Royals are a beloved team with a strong fanbase in St. Joseph. They have won two World Series titles (1985 and 2015) and remain a symbol of baseball pride in the area. Iconic players like George Brett and Salvador Pérez have played crucial roles in the team’s history.

🏀 Basketball – Kansas City’s Basketball Legacy

• Although Kansas City doesn't currently have an NBA team, its history includes the former Kansas City Kings, who played in the city until 1985 before moving to Sacramento. Basketball remains popular among local schools and colleges in and around St. Joseph.

🏒 Hockey – Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)

• Kansas City Mavericks – Located nearby in Independence, Missouri, the Mavericks are a professional team in the ECHL (a mid-tier hockey league). They provide exciting minor league hockey action and attract many fans from the St. Joseph area who enjoy fast-paced, family-friendly entertainment.

⚽ Soccer – Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

• Sporting Kansas City – This Major League Soccer team has a strong following throughout the region, including St. Joseph. Known for their passionate fan base and high-quality play, Sporting KC has won two MLS Cup championships (2000 and 2013). The team plays its home games at Children’s Mercy Park, one of the top soccer venues in the country.

🏈 Training Camp Spotlight – Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp

• St. Joseph is proud to host the Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp each summer at Missouri Western State University. This event draws thousands of fans to the city and offers a rare chance to see NFL stars up close as they prepare for the season.

While St. Joseph may not be home to big-league teams, its proximity to Kansas City and its support of regional sports keeps fans connected to the professional sports world. The city’s enthusiasm for football, baseball, soccer, and hockey makes it a great place for sports lovers to live and visit.

St. Joseph, Missouri is a city rich in history, Midwest charm, and fun surprises. Known for its role in the American Wild West and some unexpected pop culture connections, here are some fun facts about this unique city:

1. Home of the Pony Express – St. Joseph was the starting point of the famous Pony Express mail service in 1860.
2. Where Jesse James Met His Fate – Outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed here in 1882. You can still visit the house where it happened!
3. Birthplace of Eminent Inventor – Walter Cronkite's grandfather, Dr. Walter Cronkite Sr., was a dentist in St. Joseph and invented the first asymmetrical dental crown.
4. The Origin of Cherry Mash – America’s third oldest candy bar, Cherry Mash, was created in St. Joseph in 1918 and is still made there today.
5. Birthplace of a Music Icon – Eminem, the world-famous rapper, was born in St. Joseph in 1972 before moving to Detroit.
6. Architectural Beauty – St. Joseph is home to over 50 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing stunning Victorian and Art Deco architecture.
7. Locally Loved Museums – The city features a variety of unique museums like the Glore Psychiatric Museum, which details centuries of mental health treatment with hands-on exhibits.
8. Fun Film Connection – Scenes from the 1999 cult movie Ride with the Devil were filmed in and around St. Joseph due to its authentic historic look.
9. Marvelous Murals – Downtown St. Joseph has a public art initiative with vibrant murals that celebrate the city’s past and culture.
10. Gateway to the West – Before becoming known for the Pony Express, St. Joseph was one of the final stops for pioneers heading west on the Oregon Trail.