Home Value
$67,600
76% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
599/100K
58% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
6.7%
80% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$450
61% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
35.7%
11% higher than US avg
Unemployment
1.1%
69% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
13.6%
10% higher than US avg
How Birch Tree Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population395
Median Age47.9 yrs
Density286/mi²
Male / Female49% / 51%
Largest GroupWhite 92%
Veterans0.6%
Economy
Per Capita$22,566
Unemployment1.1%
Poverty13.6%
Commute36 min
Housing
Home Value$67,600
Rent$450
Ownership65.4%
Zillow$167,448
Housing Units240
Rent Burden32.0%
Crime
F
Violent599/100K
Property599/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault299/100K
Burglary299/100K
Health
Obesity35.7%
Uninsured11.3%
Smoking20.4%
Depression26.1%
Heart Disease6.2%
Climate
Avg Temp56°F (13°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain44.8 in/yr
Sunny Days255/yr
Elevation988 ft (301 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+6.7%
High School+76.7%
Graduate+3.7%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute36 min
Broadband91.1%
EV Stations4
Is Birch Tree a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Birch Tree receives an overall livability score of 1.3 out of 5.0, earning a grade of F. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, long commute times. Birch Tree faces significant challenges across several quality-of-life categories.
Economy & Jobs
The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 1.1%. 13.6% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 36 minutes, longer than the typical American commute of 28 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Birch Tree is $67,600, 76% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $450 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 599 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 599 per 100,000, 69% below the national average.
Education
6.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 76.7% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Birch Tree enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F. Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 77°F in July. With 255 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 44.8 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Birch Tree has a population of 395 with a density of 286 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age is 47.9 years, 23% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 51.1% female and 48.9% male. The city is predominantly White (92.4%), with 6.1% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 100% of residents. 0.6% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 32.6% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 72.3% have health insurance coverage.
Population
47.9yrs
Median Age
23% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Birch Tree 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
Birch Tree vs U.S. Average
Per capita income is $22,566 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 1.1% (below the 3.6% US average). 13.6% of residents live below the poverty line. The cost of living index is 90.8, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 36 minutes (longer than the 28-minute US average). 9.8% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Birch Tree vs U.S.
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 1.1% |
| 69% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% |
| 10% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 35.5 min |
| Drive Alone | 83.8% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 9.8% |
The median home value in Birch Tree is $67,600, 76% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $167,448, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $450 (61% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 65.4% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 240 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1972. 32.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Home Values
| Census Median | $67,600 |
| 76% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $167,448 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $450 |
| 61% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 32.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 65.4% |
| Owner-Occupied | 65.4% |
| Renter-Occupied | 34.6% |
| Housing Units | 240 |
| Median Year Built | 1972 |
Property Tax
In Birch Tree, 35.7% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.6% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.2% of residents. 33.5% have high blood pressure. 20.4% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 18.1% report binge drinking. 30.6% are physically inactive, above the national average. 26.1% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 20.1% experience frequent mental distress. 11.3% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Birch Tree vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 35.7% |
| 11% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 10.6% |
| Heart Disease | 6.2% |
| High Blood Pressure | 33.5% |
| Asthma | 11.0% |
| COPD | 8.5% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 3.4% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 20.4% |
| 46% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 18.1% |
| Physical Inactivity | 30.6% |
| Depression | 26.1% |
| Mental Distress | 20.1% |
| Physical Distress | 15.3% |
| Short Sleep | 40.9% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 72.3% |
| Uninsured | 11.3% |
| 31% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 74.4% |
| Dental Visits | 54.2% |
Food & Exercise
Birch Tree has a violent crime rate of 599 per 100,000 residents, 58% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 299.4 per 100,000, robbery at 149.7, rape at 149.7. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 599 per 100,000, 69% below the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 150, burglary at 299, vehicle theft at 150 per 100,000 residents. Overall, Birch Tree receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Birch Tree vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 598.8/100K |
| 58% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 149.7/100K |
| Robbery | 149.7/100K |
| Assault | 299.4/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 598.8/100K |
| 69% below US avg |
| Burglary | 299.4/100K |
| Theft | 149.7/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 149.7/100K |
| Arson | 0.0/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Birch Tree enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 77°F in July. The area gets 255 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 44.8 inches. The area receives 2.4 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 988 feet.
Temperature
32°F Jan (-0°C)
77°F Jul (25°C)
| Annual Average | 55.9°F |
| 4% above US avg |
| January Average | 32°F (-0°C) |
| July Average | 77°F (25°C) |
| Sunny Days | 255 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 988 ft (301 m) |
| Area | 1.4 sq mi (3.6 km²) |
| Population Density | 286/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.9912°N, 91.4926°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Sharp County Regional (CKK) 50 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
44.8"
18% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.65"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
83 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.9 on Jun 27, 2025.
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
73 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
67 km |
| Jun 7, 2011 |
18 km NNW of Potosi, Missouri |
M3.9 |
132 km |
| Jul 7, 1991 |
11 km ENE of Brandsville, Missouri |
M3.9 |
35 km |
| Sep 12, 2019 |
13 km N of Big Flat, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
126 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
24 km |
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
150 km |
| Sep 22, 2011 |
6 km E of Grandin, Missouri |
M3.6 |
69 km |
| Aug 20, 1994 |
4 km NE of Black Rock, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
102 km |
| Jan 20, 2010 |
4 km WNW of Lynn, Arkansas |
M3.3 |
110 km |
| Aug 21, 2022 |
4 km SSW of Imboden, Arkansas |
M3.1 |
95 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
10 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.1 |
73 km |
| Mar 12, 2002 |
6 km S of Marble Hill, Missouri |
M3.1 |
139 km |
| May 15, 2014 |
4 km W of Malden, Missouri |
M3.1 |
140 km |
| Mar 18, 1990 |
9 km W of Alton, Missouri |
M3.0 |
33 km |
| Jun 27, 2025 |
12 km WSW of Grandin, Missouri |
M2.9 |
55 km |
| Jan 26, 2009 |
1 km NNE of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
113 km |
| Jul 8, 2003 |
1 km N of Leasburg, Missouri |
M2.9 |
126 km |
| May 21, 2013 |
Arkansas |
M2.9 |
117 km |
| May 21, 2012 |
6 km SW of Williamsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
80 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
360 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 31 fatalities, 574 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 24, 2002 |
EF4 |
42 km |
0 |
| Dec 24, 1982 |
EF4 |
91 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF4 |
80 km |
2 |
| Dec 21, 1967 |
EF4 |
83 km |
3 |
| May 21, 1957 |
EF4 |
29 km |
7 |
| Mar 25, 1954 |
EF4 |
75 km |
2 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
26 km |
0 |
| May 25, 2011 |
EF3 |
61 km |
0 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| May 8, 2009 |
EF3 |
41 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 2007 |
EF3 |
74 km |
1 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
98 km |
2 |
| Oct 18, 1984 |
EF3 |
25 km |
1 |
| Dec 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
91 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
84 km |
2 |
| Apr 11, 1979 |
EF3 |
56 km |
0 |
| Feb 21, 1976 |
EF3 |
95 km |
1 |
| Jul 19, 1970 |
EF3 |
33 km |
0 |
| Apr 30, 1970 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Mar 25, 1964 |
EF3 |
43 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: HANDY (12,818 ac, 2012).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2012 |
HANDY |
12,818 |
34 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
9,641 |
42 km |
| 2022 |
CEDAR BLUFF |
9,617 |
35 km |
| 2020 |
BIG BARREN CREEK |
8,150 |
32 km |
| 2022 |
STEGALL MOUNTAIN |
6,979 |
28 km |
| 2010 |
WYLIE KING 1 |
6,077 |
84 km |
| 2015 |
15 STEGAL MOUNTAIN |
5,112 |
28 km |
| 2021 |
ROCK PILE |
5,067 |
50 km |
| 2011 |
MINNINGHAW |
4,792 |
54 km |
| 2024 |
BRIDGES RX |
4,781 |
47 km |
| 2009 |
STEGAL MTN. COMPLEX |
4,717 |
28 km |
| 2017 |
UNNAMED |
4,602 |
53 km |
| 2021 |
MILLER KING |
4,130 |
80 km |
| 2023 |
CANNON RANGE RX |
3,870 |
96 km |
| 2021 |
UNNAMED |
3,665 |
69 km |
| 1999 |
STEGALL99 |
3,415 |
28 km |
| 2013 |
UNNAMED |
3,313 |
76 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
3,252 |
51 km |
| 2021 |
VICTORY 1-7 |
3,237 |
85 km |
| 2024 |
WOLF MOUNTAIN RX |
3,140 |
52 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
32°F (-0°C) |
2.4 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
37°F (3°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| March |
47°F (8°C) |
4.5 in |
|
| April |
56°F (14°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| May |
64°F (18°C) |
4.7 in |
Wettest |
| June |
72°F (22°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| July |
77°F (25°C) |
3.5 in |
Warmest |
| August |
76°F (24°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| September |
69°F (20°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| October |
58°F (14°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| November |
46°F (8°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| December |
36°F (2°C) |
4.0 in |
|
Birch Tree has a seasonal temperature swing of 46°F / from 32°F in January to 77°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 44.8 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.7") and January the driest (2.4").
Average costs for common services in Birch Tree. 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 Birch Tree
What is the population of Birch Tree?
Birch Tree has a population of 395 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 286 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 47.9 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 51.1% female and 48.9% male.
Is Birch Tree expensive to live in?
Birch Tree is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 90.8 / below the baseline of 100. The median home value is $67,600 (76% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $450 per month, below the national average of $1,163.
Is Birch Tree safe?
The violent crime rate in Birch Tree is 599 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 599 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Birch Tree receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Birch Tree?
Birch Tree enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winter temperatures average 32°F in January, while summers reach an average of 77°F in July. The area receives 255 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 44.8 inches, with 2.4 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Birch Tree?
The job market in Birch Tree is very strong, with unemployment at just 1.1% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average commute time is 36 minutes, and 9.8% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Birch Tree?
The median home value in Birch Tree is $67,600. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $167,448. For renters, the median monthly rent is $450. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 65.4%.
How are the schools in Birch Tree?
Schools in Birch Tree score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 6.7% of adults in Birch Tree hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 76.7% have completed high school. 3.7% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Birch Tree?
The obesity rate in Birch Tree is 35.7% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 20.4% of adults are smokers. 30.6% are physically inactive. 26.1% of residents report depression. 11.3% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Birch Tree?
The average commute in Birch Tree is 36 minutes, longer than the national average of 28 minutes. 83.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 9.8% work from home.
What are the demographics of Birch Tree?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Birch Tree is 92.4% White, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino. 100% of residents speak only English at home. 0.6% of the population are military veterans. 32.6% of residents have a disability. 72.3% have health insurance coverage.