Missouri

Boone County

Blue outline of the State of Missouri with a red outline showing Boone county.
  • Population: 182,000
  • Registered voters: 122,500
  • Local election authority: County Clerk (elected)
  • Full-time election staff: 10
  • Boone County Election Website

Founded in 1820, Boone County is located in central Missouri and named for Daniel Boone. The county seat is Columbia, the largest city in the county and home to the University of Missouri, the state’s flagship university. Boone County is halfway between the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan areas, with Interstate 70 running through it.

Boone County’s economy is diverse and driven by various sectors, including education, healthcare, government, and manufacturing. The University of Missouri, Veterans United Home Loans, and major healthcare providers like University Hospital are the largest employers in the county. Other significant industries in the county include manufacturing, research, insurance, and agriculture.

Boone County has a vibrant arts and cultural scene and is known for several national and international festivals and events, including True/False Film Fest, Treeline Music Fest, and Unbound Book Festival. The county is also home to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park and an extensive network of local parks and trails, including the Katy Trail, which spans the state.

Overall, access to arts, music, and recreation, combined with the presence of multiple universities and healthcare options makes Boone County a growing and thriving destination for students, families, and retirees.