Ashland is a growing city with a strong sense of community
Halfway between Jefferson City and Columbia , Ashland is a Boone County community known for its convenient location, small-town atmosphere and tight-knit populace. "There's lots of community and school pride," says Izzy Smith, a Realtor with The Shy Team. "There's not a lot of hustle and bustle – it's all town lane roads with no stoplights." Despite this reputation, the city has grown steadily since the 1960s, increasing its population by 1,000 between 2010 and 2020. With a population of over 5,000, this uptick shows no sign of slowing. "It's what makes me excited about this area," says Smith, who was born and raised in Ashland. "There's lots of room for families to grow and succeed." Newer construction and low crime rates are other factors that draw potential homeowners. The city's CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Quiet residential blocks and tree-lined streets define Ashland neighborhoods.
Neighbors gather at the pavilions in Ashland City Park.
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Homes frequently 21st-century construction and style
With a median construction year in the early 2000s, most homes in the area have contemporary styles and amenities. Lots are typically between a quarter and half an acre in size, often sporting fenced-in backyards or views of nearby ponds and lakes. 21st-century New Traditional and contemporary ranch-style homes are typical of the area, generally priced to sell between $250,000 and $750,000, depending on size and amenities. Midcentury homes are also available and tend to sell between $150,000 and $240,000.
New homes with stone accents appear throughout Ashland.
Many homes in Ashland draw inspiration from traditional architecture.
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Pride runs deep in schools and student activities
Students in the area start at Southern Boone Primary School, which has a B-minus from Niche. From there, they'll attend Southern Boone Elementary, which has a B. Next, they'll enroll at Southern Boone Middle, which has a B-plus, before heading to B-minus-rated Southern Boone High School. With a state championship for baseball in 2022 and one for soccer in 2020, locals regularly support high school sports, but don't stop there. "It goes beyond sports," says Smith. "We rally behind the sports, the band, the district on the whole – there's lots of pride there."
Southern Boone Primary School serves nearly 500 students in grades PK–2.
Southern Boone Elementary School serves 300+ students in grades 3–4.
Southern Boone Middle School serves 600+ students in grades 5–8.
Southern Boone High School has a student–teacher ratio of about 14:1.
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Local eats and shops line Broadway and Route 63
Local businesses, eateries and grocery stores like Moser's Foods center around Broadway and U.S. Route 63. "When it comes to brand-name retail, people go out of town since Columbia and Jefferson City are so close," says Smith. "But we've got amenities available otherwise." Woody's Pub and Grub is a classic sports bar with a prolific menu of no frills chow and a lineup of live entertainment, themed parties and their annual King of Wings competition. Jose Jalapenos offers a familiar selection of Mexican favorites in a colorful atmosphere.
Moser’s in Ashland provides everyday groceries close to home.
Neighbors gather over plates at Jose Jalapenos Authentic Mexican Restaurant in Ashland.
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Outdoor lovers enjoy trails, sports fields and community pools
In addition to tree-filled green spaces and playground equipment, Ashland City Park has a lit soccer field, serene ponds and a disc golf course. The Southern Boone Community Pool hosts swimming lessons and holiday events all summer. With almost 1,500 acres of forests, wetlands and trails, the Three Creeks Conservation Area is a popular spot for anglers, hunters and other nature lovers.
Residents enjoy the mile-long walking trail at Ashland City Park.
Three Creeks Conservation Area offers 1,500 acres of woods and trails near Ashland.
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Residents have easy access to highways, hospitals and air travel
U.S. Route 63 passes through the center of Ashland, leading to Columbia and Jefferson City, about 15 and 20 miles away, respectively. Columbia Regional Airport is at the city's northern end and offers daily flights to Chicago and Dallas . The Boone Hospital Center in Columbia has nearly 400 beds and offers emergency and general care.
Cattlemen Days Rodeo draws thousands every August
Founded in 1973, the Cattlemen Days Rodeo is Ashland's largest annual event. "It draws in thousands," says Ryan Martin, an agent with Real Broker who's served the community since 2019. "It's a really big deal." Held every August, the festivities include a horse-led parade, cow roping, steer wrestling and bull riding.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Benjamin Rose
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Denise Pittman,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Ashland, MO sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Ashland, MO over the last 12 months is $339,900, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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