Economy / Community Profile / Taxes / Transportation / Utilities /

Business people with vision come to West Plains seeking the remarkable opportunities for expansion, diversification and progress. In other words, they come here to see their dreams fulfilled.

The economic health of West Plains is as solid as the Ozark Mountains themselves. Banks and other financial institutions are safe and strong with assets in excess of 400 million dollars. Dedicated to growth and prosperity in the business community, those assets continue to increase. South Central Missouri is the largest enterprise zone in the state. That’s good news for new and expanding businesses. They’re on the receiving end of investment credits, employee credits and income tax credits. Real estate tax abatements are available and the state also offers grants, loans and bonds.

Broad ranges of industrial spaces are ready for occupancy or construction. These sites feature paved and lighted streets, utilities, and easy access to highways, railroad sidings and the airport.

Successful businesses from nearly every field call West Plains home. From food processing to engine rebuilding, woodworking to shoe manufacturing, the wide range of industries protects the local economy if any one of them experience a slowdown. Some of the largest employers include Armstrong –Bruce Hardwood floors, Systems and Electronics Inc. (SEI), Invensys, Ozarks Medical Center, Caterpillar, Royal Oak Enterprises, Arlee Home Fashions, Motor Technologies Group, Air Evac Lifeteam, and Gardner Shoe Company.

The largest city within a 100-mile radius, West Plains is the trade center for south-central Missouri. More than 125,000 people shop in the area and retail sales have averaged an 8 percent growth rate annually, pumping 225 million dollars into the local economy.

The major arteries of the city are home to a wide variety of food markets, specialty stores and retail shops. Downtown businesses are expanding and thriving.

Residential property is assessed at 19% of true market value. Personal property is assessed at 33.33% of true market value.

With one of the most efficient highway systems in the country, commercial trucking keeps products moving all year round. U.S. Highways 60, 63, and 160 crisscross our area as do State Highways 14, 17 and 19. Moving people and goods by air is just as easy from the West Plains Municipal Airport. The Burlington-Northern Railroad provides service for rail freight.

Utilities and Co-ops work together to provide ample electricity at exceptionally affordable prices. The area depends on clean-burning, inexpensive natural gas. Known as the land of the big springs, deep wells provide some of the freshest water you’ll ever taste. The city has recently installed an 11 million dollar generating plant to keep up with business and residential growth.

To aid you in finding specific tax information, request a West Plains Fact Guide. For more details on starting a new business in West Plains go to the information request page of this website, check the economic development box, and the Chamber will be happy to forward more information to you.