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.
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.
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."
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.
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 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.
