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Kirksville is a small city in Adair County in northeast Missouri, with a population of approximately 17,000 residents. It is home to Truman State University, Missouri's flagship liberal arts public university, and A.T. Still University, the founding institution of osteopathic medicine in the United States. The local economy is anchored by education and healthcare, giving the city a stable employment base and a distinctly academic character. Kirksville sits roughly 100 miles northeast of Columbia, making it one of the more rural settings among Missouri's public universities. Despite its small size, the city offers everyday amenities, an active downtown square, and a strong sense of community shaped by its two universities.
The most sought-after location for walkability to Truman's campus.
Older single-family homes and duplexes along Franklin Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, popular with upperclassmen.
A small collection of apartments above commercial spaces, within easy walking distance of campus and Kirksville's restaurants and shops.
More residential and quieter, a short bike or drive from campus. The compact city keeps nearly everyone within 15 minutes of class.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Kirksville.
Kirksville does not have a fixed-route public bus system, and there is no commuter rail or intercity transit service to the city. Truman State operates a limited campus shuttle for on-campus travel, but routes do not extend into the broader Kirksville community. Students who need to travel beyond the walkable campus area should plan to have access to a personal vehicle or reliable carpool.
The area immediately around Truman's campus is highly walkable, and most student neighborhoods within a half-mile of Normal Avenue are easily reached on foot or by bike. Kirksville's flat terrain and low traffic volume make cycling a practical option for everyday errands and getting to class. A bike or electric scooter is a popular and practical choice for Truman students living in central Kirksville.
Parking is free and widely available throughout Kirksville, including in residential neighborhoods near campus and in the downtown square area. Truman State has campus parking available for students with registered vehicles, though lots closest to the academic core can fill on busy days. The lack of paid parking and the absence of parking meters in most of the city make car ownership logistically straightforward.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Kirksville has a tight-knit, campus-centered atmosphere where Truman State shapes much of the social and cultural life of the city. The small size means students often know their neighbors and develop close connections across campus and off-campus communities. Most students find the low cost of living and the quiet environment well-suited for focused academic work.
Browse student housing near each Kirksville-area university.