Moving to Branson less than 2 wks. What do I need to know? (Springfield: sales)

[Nanseej]

We bought a home in Branson 7 months ago. Visited many times both as tourist and during house hunting and renovation period. Now retired. Home renovations are complete. We're moving from SE Wisconsin in less than 2 weeks.

We think we know about some obvious things. Traffic in season. We're learning where stuff is and alternate routes. Weather. Christianity dominant (I'm not). Nice friendly people. Transient and homeless panhandlers (though I haven't seen them). Property crime increasing.

There is a lot we don't know yet. Two questions come to mind.
• Sales tax
Are there different tax rates for food or pharmacy and things that are not entertainment? Is it better to shop out of town?
• Medical care
We will need specialists and primary care (we're near Cox on Business 65)

I'm excited for the move and would love to read what residents can tell me.

[Arrby]

Primary care will be handled competently in Branson. Should you need a specialist you may be sent to a Cox facility in Springfield.

Branson, Branson West, Hollister, Reeds Spring, Kimberling City, etc. will all have their own sales tax on top of the state sales tax. In addition you will likely encounter special tax districts - Seems like the Landing is one. Food is taxed at lower rates every where and prescriptions are not taxed. That said, you will need a rather large purchase to pay for the expense of driving someplace else.

It's hotter than Wisconsin, but I suppose you noticed that.

[miquel_westano]

You will notice the mosquitos are smaller, the folks similar and the overall cost of living in Missouri is likely lower. You will find sales tax all over the board, with Branson being a bit higher than the surrounding towns. You will find Branson's population a bit more fluid, as folks tend to come and go based on tourism. You will see property crimes high for a small town, but serious violent crimes low with a generally safe atmosphere.


You will see some beautiful areas, but lots of billboards and shops. You will find great farmers markets with good home grown vegetables and very good local beef and pork. While most of the restaurants will be chains, there are some great local ones in the area quite reasonable. If you like casual be sure to check out the Fall Creek Steak House.


All in all Branson is a very nice small town with no more problems than most others it's size. Even with the transient population, the town is full of good folks who will make you feel welcome. If you are someone who fishes, you are moving to a great spot with all species including trout abundant in the local lakes.


Welcome to Missouri from an old coot who has lived here since the late 50's.

[Nanseej]

Originally Posted by Arrby

Primary care will be handled competently in Branson. Should you need a specialist you may be sent to a Cox facility in Springfield.

Branson, Branson West, Hollister, Reeds Spring, Kimberling City, etc. will all have their own sales tax on top of the state sales tax. In addition you will likely encounter special tax districts - Seems like the Landing is one. Food is taxed at lower rates every where and prescriptions are not taxed. That said, you will need a rather large purchase to pay for the expense of driving someplace else.

It's hotter than Wisconsin, but I suppose you noticed that.

Thanks. I am looking forward to the warmer weather. We have to get out of the Wisconsin cold. We had several inches of snow Saturday. 😡

The sales tax rates are confusing. I know Branson is higher than surrounding municipalities. We have different rates in different cities and counties here, but the difference is marginal. Unless you cross into illinois. And I've lived here long enough to know what they are.

[Repo_man_sanchez]

Make sure you've got a good flow of cash from retirement or a big savings account. Unfortunately in the area slinging hash at a local restaurant and software developer pay about the same.