Joplin, MO

Very Low · 58

Missouri · Population 52,218 · Updated March 2026

$889
Median Rent / Month
$51,154
Median Income
$159,700
Median Home Value
$886
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Joplin

20.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Missouri

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.95%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.225%
Sales Tax
0.93%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,668
Annual Rent
$2,532
State Income Tax
$1,485
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Joplin is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 58 (where 100 equals the national median), Joplin residents can expect to pay median rent of $889/month while earning a median household income of $51,154/year.

The median home value in Joplin, MO is $159,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $886 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 20.9% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Missouri has a moderate income tax rate of 4.95%. Combined with a 4.225% sales tax rate and 0.93% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Joplin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Joplin

What is the cost of living in Joplin, MO?
The cost of living index in Joplin, MO is 58 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $889, median household income is $51,154/year, and the median home value is $159,700.
Is Joplin, MO affordable?
Yes, Joplin is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 58. The rent-to-income ratio is 20.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Joplin, MO?
The median gross rent in Joplin, MO is $889 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,668.
What is the median household income in Joplin?
The median household income in Joplin, MO is $51,154 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Missouri?
Missouri has a top income tax rate of 4.95%, a sales tax of 4.225%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.93%.