Median Income
$35,938
52% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
252/100K
34% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
18.2%
46% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
37.8%
18% higher than US avg
Unemployment
0.0%
100% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
60.0%
384% higher than US avg
How Big Spring Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population29
Median Age51.9 yrs
Density9/mi²
Male / Female38% / 62%
Largest GroupWhite 100%
Veterans22.0%
Economy
C+
Median Income$35,938
Per Capita$22,841
Unemployment0.0%
Poverty60.0%
Housing
Ownership100.0%
Zillow$223,671
Housing Units35
Rent Burden27.9%
Crime
F
Violent252/100K
Property1,807/100K
Health
Obesity37.8%
Uninsured9.9%
Smoking20.5%
Depression27.3%
Heart Disease6.5%
Climate
Avg Temp55°F (13°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain39.2 in/yr
Sunny Days265/yr
Elevation558 ft (170 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+18.2%
High School+100.0%
Graduate+0.0%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Broadband18.0%
EV Stations5
Is Big Spring a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Big Spring receives an overall livability score of 2.0 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. Big Spring has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Big Spring is $35,938, 52% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.0%. The poverty rate of 60.0% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population.
Safety & Crime
Violent crime in Big Spring is below the national average at 252 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,807 per 100,000, near the national average.
Education
18.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 100.0% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Big Spring experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 55°F. Winters average 28°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. With 265 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 39.2 inches, including 6.5 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Big Spring has a population of 29 with a density of 9 people per square mile, spread across 3.4 square miles. The median age is 51.9 years, 33% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 62.1% female and 37.9% male. The city is predominantly White (100%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 100% of residents. 22.0% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 6.1% of residents have a disability (below the 13.0% national average). 73.5% have health insurance coverage.
Population
51.9yrs
Median Age
33% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Big Spring vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
100.0%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.0%
100% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Big Spring vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Big Spring is $35,938, which is 52% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $22,841 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 0.0% (below the 3.6% US average). 60.0% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The cost of living index is 90.8, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. 0.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Big Spring vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $35,938 |
| 52% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $22,841 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 0.0% |
| 100% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 60.0% |
| 384% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Drive Alone | 100.0% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 0.0% |
Zillow estimates the typical home value at $223,671. Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 100.0% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 35 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1966. 27.9% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 100.0% |
| Owner-Occupied | 100.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 0.0% |
| Housing Units | 35 |
| Median Year Built | 1966 |
Property Tax
In Big Spring, 37.8% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.2% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.5% of residents. 34.7% have high blood pressure. 20.5% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 17.6% report binge drinking. 32.0% are physically inactive, above the national average. 27.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 20.7% experience frequent mental distress. 9.9% of residents lack health insurance.
Health Metrics: Big Spring vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 37.8% |
| 18% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 11.2% |
| Heart Disease | 6.5% |
| High Blood Pressure | 34.7% |
| Asthma | 11.4% |
| COPD | 8.9% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 3.5% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 20.5% |
| 46% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 17.6% |
| Physical Inactivity | 32.0% |
| Depression | 27.3% |
| Mental Distress | 20.7% |
| Physical Distress | 15.5% |
| Short Sleep | 39.9% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 73.5% |
| Uninsured | 9.9% |
| 15% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.4% |
| Dental Visits | 54.7% |
Food & Exercise
Big Spring has a violent crime rate of 252 per 100,000 residents, 34% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 1,807 per 100,000, 8% below the U.S. average. Overall, Big Spring receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Big Spring vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 252.2/100K |
| 34% below US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 1,807.5/100K |
| 8% below US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Big Spring experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 55°F (13°C). Winters average 28°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. The area gets 265 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 39.2 inches. The area receives 6.5 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 558 feet.
Temperature
28°F Jan (-2°C)
78°F Jul (25°C)
| Annual Average | 54.5°F |
| 1% above US avg |
| January Average | 28°F (-2°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (25°C) |
| Sunny Days | 265 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 558 ft (170 m) |
| Area | 3.4 sq mi (8.7 km²) |
| Population Density | 9/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.8025°N, 91.4777°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Columbia Regional (COU) 40 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
39.2"
3% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.65"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
21 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.6 on Sep 19, 2024.
| Jun 7, 2011 |
18 km NNW of Potosi, Missouri |
M3.9 |
95 km |
| Aug 27, 1993 |
5 km SSE of Olympian Village, Missouri |
M3.3 |
120 km |
| Jul 31, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
109 km |
| Jan 21, 1992 |
5 km SE of Linn Creek, Missouri |
M3.1 |
137 km |
| Feb 8, 2004 |
6 km SSW of Stoutsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
84 km |
| Jul 8, 2003 |
1 km N of Leasburg, Missouri |
M2.9 |
79 km |
| May 18, 2006 |
9 km SSE of De Soto, Missouri |
M2.9 |
118 km |
| Apr 29, 2022 |
1 km SSW of Peerless Park, Missouri |
M2.8 |
90 km |
| May 5, 2008 |
3 km SSE of Fenton, Missouri |
M2.8 |
99 km |
| Jul 31, 1995 |
8 km SSW of Caledonia, Missouri |
M2.8 |
137 km |
| Nov 12, 1996 |
15 km SSE of Olympian Village, Missouri |
M2.7 |
130 km |
| Jul 15, 1990 |
7 km SW of Potosi, Missouri |
M2.7 |
117 km |
| Sep 5, 2015 |
5 km SE of High Ridge, Missouri |
M2.7 |
96 km |
| Feb 3, 2014 |
18 km NW of Potosi, Missouri |
M2.6 |
95 km |
| Nov 25, 2013 |
8 km NE of Bonne Terre, Missouri |
M2.6 |
126 km |
| Mar 7, 2009 |
7 km S of Miramiguoa Park, Missouri |
M2.6 |
78 km |
| Jun 6, 2017 |
8 km ENE of Bonne Terre, Missouri |
M2.6 |
130 km |
| Sep 11, 2019 |
6 km NNE of Bonne Terre, Missouri |
M2.6 |
124 km |
| Sep 19, 2024 |
1 km S of Old Monroe, Missouri |
M2.6 |
65 km |
| Jan 15, 1998 |
1 km SSE of Fenton, Missouri |
M2.5 |
97 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
414 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 38 fatalities, 825 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 22, 2011 |
EF4 |
86 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF4 |
94 km |
0 |
| Jan 24, 1967 |
EF4 |
82 km |
3 |
| Feb 10, 1959 |
EF4 |
82 km |
21 |
| Feb 24, 1956 |
EF4 |
62 km |
6 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
55 km |
1 |
| May 31, 2013 |
EF3 |
64 km |
0 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
94 km |
1 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
15 km |
0 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
29 km |
0 |
| May 10, 2003 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| Jun 1, 1999 |
EF3 |
91 km |
0 |
| Nov 10, 1998 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
85 km |
0 |
| Nov 15, 1988 |
EF3 |
67 km |
0 |
| Apr 29, 1984 |
EF3 |
51 km |
0 |
| May 1, 1983 |
EF3 |
55 km |
0 |
| Apr 7, 1980 |
EF3 |
100 km |
0 |
| Jun 12, 1970 |
EF3 |
49 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
8 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (2,688 ac, 2019).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2019 |
UNNAMED |
2,688 |
100 km |
| 2004 |
CICERO CREEK |
1,846 |
94 km |
| 2024 |
HARMON SPRING RX |
1,330 |
98 km |
| 2022 |
WOOLDRIDGE FIRE |
1,323 |
90 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
1,285 |
98 km |
| 2010 |
KK RANCH ROAD |
1,112 |
78 km |
| 2022 |
NORTH KOFFER HOLLOW |
783 |
98 km |
| 1992 |
UNNAMED |
533 |
85 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
28°F (-2°C) |
1.7 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
34°F (1°C) |
2.0 in |
|
| March |
44°F (7°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| April |
55°F (13°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| May |
64°F (18°C) |
4.7 in |
Wettest |
| June |
73°F (23°C) |
4.0 in |
|
| July |
78°F (25°C) |
3.6 in |
Warmest |
| August |
76°F (24°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| September |
68°F (20°C) |
3.8 in |
|
| October |
57°F (14°C) |
3.1 in |
|
| November |
44°F (7°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| December |
33°F (1°C) |
2.8 in |
|
Big Spring has a seasonal temperature swing of 49°F / from 28°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 39.2 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.7") and January the driest (1.7").
Average costs for common services in Big Spring. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$227 ($136–$363) |
| Specialist Visit |
$318 ($182–$499) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$182 ($91–$318) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,998 ($726–$4,540) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$118 ($68–$182) |
| Dental Filling |
$227 ($136–$363) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$41 ($23–$68) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$68 ($45–$109) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$272 ($136–$454) |
| Tire Rotation |
$36 ($18–$68) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$545 ($363–$908) |
| Battery Replacement |
$182 ($91–$318) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$91 ($54–$136) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$82 ($45–$127) |
| HVAC Repair |
$363 ($136–$726) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,356 ($3,632–$10,896) |
| Roof Repair |
$908 ($363–$1,816) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,172 ($4,994–$13,620) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,362 ($454–$3,178) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,620 ($4,540–$27,240) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,540 ($1,816–$9,080) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,362 ($726–$2,724) |
| Will Preparation |
$454 ($182–$908) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,270 ($908–$4,540) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$23 ($14–$41) |
| Women's Haircut |
$50 ($27–$91) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$136 ($68–$227) |
| Manicure |
$23 ($14–$41) |
| Pedicure |
$36 ($23–$59) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$73 ($45–$118) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.72 ($2.72–$4.99) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.18 ($2.27–$4.54) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.45 ($2.27–$4.99) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.09 ($2.72–$5.90) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.99 ($3.63–$6.81) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.91 ($0.54–$1.63) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$127 ($73–$227) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$64 ($27–$136) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$64 ($36–$109) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$64 ($36–$91) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$59 ($27–$91) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$77 ($45–$136) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$182 ($68–$454) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,816 ($1,090–$3,178) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$64 ($27–$118) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.26–$23) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$91 ($27–$227) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$27 ($14–$68) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,090 ($545–$2,270) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$908 ($454–$1,816) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$363 ($182–$636) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$45 ($23–$91) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$908 ($363–$2,270) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$11,350 ($4,540–$27,240) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$54 ($27–$91) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$91 ($45–$182) |
| Dog Grooming |
$54 ($27–$91) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$36 ($18–$68) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$272 ($136–$454) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$182 ($91–$363) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Spring
What is the population of Big Spring?
Big Spring has a population of 29 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 9 people per square mile, spread across 3.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 51.9 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 62.1% female and 37.9% male.
Is Big Spring expensive to live in?
Big Spring is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 90.8 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $35,938, 52% below the national average of $75,149.
Is Big Spring safe?
Big Spring is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 252 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,807 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Big Spring receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Big Spring?
Big Spring has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 55°F (13°C). Winter temperatures average 28°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. The area receives 265 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 39.2 inches, with 6.5 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Big Spring?
The job market in Big Spring is very strong, with unemployment at just 0.0% / well below the national rate of 3.6%.
How are the schools in Big Spring?
Schools in Big Spring score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 18.2% of adults in Big Spring hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 100.0% have completed high school. 0.0% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Big Spring?
The obesity rate in Big Spring is 37.8% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 20.5% of adults are smokers. 32.0% are physically inactive. 27.3% of residents report depression. 9.9% lack health insurance.
What are the demographics of Big Spring?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Big Spring is 100% White. 100% of residents speak only English at home. 22.0% of the population are military veterans. 6.1% of residents have a disability. 73.5% have health insurance coverage.