This Tiny Missouri Town Is One Of The Happiest Places In America

This little army town in the heart of the Ozarks is one of the happiest places in Missouri. Consistently rated as one of the safest and most affordable places to live in the Show Me State, Waynesville tips the happiness scales with the addition of great schools, well paying jobs, and beautiful scenery. This little town is also conveniently located off Interstate 44 between St. Louis and Springfield and was one of the major stops along the historic Route 66. Find out what everyone is smiling about and visit Waynesville for a happy little getaway.

City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Waynesville is a quiet little town of just over 5,000 residents. Located in rural Pulaksi, this little town is frequently listed as one of the best places to live in Missouri.

City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

With happy residents, safe neighborhoods, a lively business district, and lots of natural beauty it is easy to see why people love living in Waynesville. ,

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City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Waynesville schools are also considered as one of the top performing districts in the Show Me State. The Waynesville R-VI School District is also the largest in the county.

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City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Downtown Waynesville is located on Route 66 and is the perfect picture of a classic American main street. Check out the many locally owned businesses and restaurants that call Waynesville home.

Pulaski County USA, Tourism Bureau & Visitors Center/Facebook

The Pulaski History Museum is located in Waynesville. During the Civil War Fort Waynesville was erected by Union soldiers who guarded the telegraph wires and road from Springfield to St. Louis.

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City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

In 1923, the Roubidoux Bridge was completed and became a part of the original Route 66 Highway. The bridge is now

City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Roubidoux Spring is one of the only springs in the state where certified scuba divers are permitted to explore underwater caves. Get to the spring with a 1 mile walk along the Roubidoux River on the Waynesville Walking Trail.

City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Many of the residents in Waynesville are military members. Fort Leonard Wood is a United States Army base, located just outside of town, that has been active since 1940. The community of Waynesville is extremely supportive to military members and their families.

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City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Community and cultural activities are also important to Waynesville residents. From annual festivals to live theater performances you can find tons of great entertainment in this little town.

City of Waynesville MO Municipal Government/Facebook

Created by Phil Nelson in 1996, W.H. Croaker has become a town landmark. You really can't be sad when your town has a rock frog that keeps watch over the residents.

What other towns in Missouri do you think are some of the happiest places to live? Planning a move to Missouri, check out this article featuring the 14 best places to live in Missouri.