If there could be a poster child for the Midwest, Sedalia would be it. While some may consider these to be stereotypes, this small Missouri town owns each and every one of them with pride and grace. From state fairs to generous residents, you’ll see why Sedalia has all the charm that comes with living in the Midwest.

Downtown Sedalia is home to a picture perfect main street.
Sedalia Downtown Development/Facebook
Historic Downtown Sedalia is bursting at the seams with mom and pop shops, historic buildings and delicious restaurants and cafes.
Did you say...fried? The Missouri State Fair takes place each year in Sedalia.
Missouri State Fair/Facebook
The first state fair in Sedalia took place in 1901 and became an annual pilgrimage for Missourians. Today, you'll get to indulge in tasty fried food, attend livestock shows, participate in local rallies and so much more when you visit the fair.
They're not afraid of a little bull riding from time to time.
Missouri State Fair/Facebook
Bull riding is a main event at the Missouri State Fair and you won't find one nearly as exciting on the East or West Coast.

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The cost of living is low, but the quality of life is high.
jbezdek/flickr
According to AreaVibes.com, Sedalia's average home costs $86,100, compared to the national average housing cost of $175,700. I'd take that over a shoe box apartment in New York any day.
Sedalia is a town that volunteers.
Child Safe of Central Missouri, Inc./Facebook
In a 2009 study on Americans’ volunteering habits, the Corporation for National and Community Service found Midwesterners to be most charitable with their time, so it should be no surprise that one of the biggest non-profits in Missouri has an office in Sedalia. Child Safe of Central Missouri fights to protect children from abuse and has offices in 11 Missouri counties.
They're proud of their unique local history.
Kehde's Barbecue/Facebook
In a society where we're always looking ahead, it's refreshing to see that Sedalia still holds value in its past. Visit Kehde's Barbecue to experience unique dining in a restored train car that once ran on the Missouri-Kansas Texas Railroad. Hotel Bothwell is also a main fixture of Sedalia's downtown and is rich in history.

Do you think your town shares the typical values and characteristics of the Midwest? We’d love to hear about it! Let us know in the comments.

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