Nixa, Missouri: One of Southwest Missouri’s Most Desirable Places to Live

Just a short drive south of Springfield, Nixa, Missouri has quickly become one of the most popular places to live in the region. Known for its excellent schools, friendly neighborhoods, and growing amenities, Nixa offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience.

Whether you're relocating from out of state or moving within the Ozarks, Nixa is a top contender—especially for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a close-knit community with modern living.

About Nixa

Located in Christian County, Nixa is home to just over 24,000 residents and is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. It’s part of the Springfield metropolitan area and is about a 15–20 minute drive from downtown Springfield via Highway 160.

This thriving suburb is known for its strong community spirit, well-maintained neighborhoods, and commitment to high-quality education.

Pros of Living in Nixa

Top-Rated Schools The Nixa Public School District consistently ranks among the best in Missouri. With an emphasis on academics, arts, and athletics, the district is a huge draw for families. Nixa High School boasts strong college prep programs, AP courses, and award-winning extracurriculars.

Safe, Family-Friendly Neighborhoods Nixa is known for its well-kept subdivisions, many with sidewalks, parks, and community events. Crime rates are low, and the city has a strong reputation for being a safe and welcoming place to raise children.

Steady Growth with Amenities to Match Nixa has experienced thoughtful growth, adding new restaurants, shopping centers, gyms, and healthcare facilities. While it still maintains its small-town charm, residents enjoy the conveniences of a much larger city.

Close to Nature Residents love being close to outdoor attractions like the James River, Busiek State Forest, and Table Rock Lake, all just a short drive away.

Strong Community Involvement Events like Sucker Days Festival, local farmers markets, and school sports bring the community together year-round. There’s a genuine pride in being part of Nixa.

Things to Consider

Traffic on Main Routes Highway 160 can get busy during rush hour, especially with continued population growth and commuters traveling to Springfield.

Fewer “Big City” Amenities While Nixa has great restaurants and conveniences, major shopping, entertainment venues, and specialty healthcare still require a drive to Springfield.

Nixa by the Numbers

Metric	Estimate (2024)
Population	~24,000+ residents
Median Home Price	~$280,000
Median Household Income	~$75,000
Median Age	~35 years
School District Rating	A (Niche.com)
Commute to Springfield	~15–20 minutes

Nixa Public Schools

The Nixa Public School District serves grades PK–12 and is known for:

• Top academic performance in the region

• Award-winning band, theater, and athletics programs

• Engaged teachers and supportive families

• Advanced programs like AP, STEM, and dual credit offerings

The district has made continual investments in facilities, technology, and teacher development, making it one of the strongest educational systems in the area.

Final Thoughts

Nixa is ideal for:

• Families looking for great schools and a strong community

• Commuters who work in Springfield but want a quieter place to live

• First-time homebuyers and move-up buyers seeking newer homes and safe neighborhoods

• Retirees looking for low-maintenance living with access to healthcare and recreation

With a mix of modern amenities, strong values, and room to grow, Nixa continues to be one of the best places to live in Southwest Missouri.

Thinking about making Nixa your next home? I’d love to show you around, answer your questions, and help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.