Median Income
$54,961
27% lower than US avg
Home Value
$237,900
16% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
625/100K
64% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
29.4%
13% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$999
14% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
36.6%
14% higher than US avg
Unemployment
3.6%
0% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
13.8%
11% higher than US avg
How Branson Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population12,760
Median Age38.2 yrs
Density598/mi²
Male / Female45% / 55%
Largest GroupWhite 81%
Veterans8.6%
Economy
B
Median Income$54,961
Per Capita$35,892
Unemployment3.6%
Poverty13.8%
Commute18 min
Housing
A
Home Value$237,900
Rent$999
Ownership45.9%
Zillow$245,093
Housing Units8,779
Rent Burden23.6%
Crime
F
Violent625/100K
Property10,036/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault402/100K
Burglary1,010/100K
Health
Obesity36.6%
Uninsured11.0%
Smoking17.7%
Depression25.3%
Heart Disease6.1%
Climate
Avg Temp57°F (14°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain43.4 in/yr
Sunny Days257/yr
Elevation787 ft (240 m)
Education
B
Bachelor's+29.4%
High School+91.2%
Graduate+6.8%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute18 min
Broadband87.1%
EV Stations22
Is Branson a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Branson receives an overall livability score of 3.0 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, below-average incomes. Branson offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Branson is $54,961, 27% below the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 3.6%, indicating a healthy job market. 13.8% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 18 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Branson is $237,900, 16% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $999 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 4.3x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
With 625 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 10,036 per 100,000, 412% above the national average.
Education
29.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 91.2% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Branson enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F. Winters average 34°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. With 257 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 43.4 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Branson has a population of 12,760 with a density of 598 people per square mile, spread across 21.3 square miles. The median age is 38.2 years, 2% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 54.9% female and 45.1% male. The city is predominantly White (81.4%), with 1.1% Hispanic, 4.6% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 92% of residents, while 8% speak Spanish. 8.6% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 15.8% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 80.4% have health insurance coverage.
Population
38.2yrs
Median Age
2% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
92.0%
17% above US avg
Spanish
8.0%
40% below US avg
The median household income in Branson is $54,961, which is 27% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $35,892. The unemployment rate is 3.6% (below the 3.6% US average). 13.8% 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 18 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 11.4% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $54,961 |
| 27% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $35,892 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 3.6% |
| 0% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 13.8% |
| 11% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 17.7 min |
| Drive Alone | 71.7% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 11.4% |
The median home value in Branson is $237,900, 16% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $245,093. Homes sell for 0% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $999 (14% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 45.9% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 8,779 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1996. 23.6% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 4.3x.
Home Values
| Census Median | $237,900 |
| 16% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $245,093 |
| Median List Price | $249,900 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median List Price | $249,900 |
| $/Sq Ft | $206 |
| Homes Sold | 35 |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 0.0% |
| Price Drops | 15.0% |
| Inventory | 300 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $999 |
| 14% below US avg |
| Zillow Rent (ZORI) | $1,448 |
| Rent Burden | 23.6% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 45.9% |
| Owner-Occupied | 45.9% |
| Renter-Occupied | 54.1% |
| Housing Units | 8,779 |
| Median Year Built | 1996 |
Property Tax
In Branson, 36.6% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.0% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.1% of residents. 33.8% have high blood pressure. 17.7% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 16.6% report binge drinking. 30.1% are physically inactive, above the national average. 25.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 19.1% experience frequent mental distress. 11.0% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Air Quality (Open-Meteo CAMS — 2026-05-25)
PM2.5
4.2
μg/m³
Fine particulate
PM10
4.5
μg/m³
Coarse particulate
NO₂
1.2
μg/m³
Nitrogen dioxide
SO₂
0.4
μg/m³
Sulphur dioxide
CO
134.0
μg/m³
Carbon monoxide
Health Metrics: Branson vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 36.6% |
| 14% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 11.0% |
| Heart Disease | 6.1% |
| High Blood Pressure | 33.8% |
| Asthma | 10.9% |
| COPD | 7.8% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 3.3% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 17.7% |
| 26% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 16.6% |
| Physical Inactivity | 30.1% |
| Depression | 25.3% |
| Mental Distress | 19.1% |
| Physical Distress | 14.8% |
| Short Sleep | 38.9% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 80.4% |
| Uninsured | 11.0% |
| 28% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.8% |
| Dental Visits | 54.8% |
Food & Exercise
Branson has a violent crime rate of 625 per 100,000 residents, 64% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 402.1 per 100,000, robbery at 136.9, rape at 85.6. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 10,036 per 100,000, 412% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 8,496, burglary at 1,010, vehicle theft at 530 per 100,000 residents. Overall, Branson receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Branson vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 624.6/100K |
| 64% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 85.6/100K |
| Robbery | 136.9/100K |
| Assault | 402.1/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 10,035.9/100K |
| 412% above US avg |
| Burglary | 1,009.6/100K |
| Theft | 8,495.9/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 530.5/100K |
| Arson | 59.9/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Traffic Accidents | 1 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Branson enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winters average 34°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. The area gets 257 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 43.4 inches. The area receives 2.0 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 787 feet.
Temperature
34°F Jan (1°C)
78°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 57.2°F |
| 6% above US avg |
| January Average | 34°F (1°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (26°C) |
| Sunny Days | 257 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 787 ft (240 m) |
| Area | 21.3 sq mi (55.3 km²) |
| Population Density | 598/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.6437°N, 93.2185°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Marion County Regional (FLP) 43 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
43.4"
14% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.72"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
37 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.6 on Apr 23, 2025.
| Jul 7, 1991 |
11 km ENE of Brandsville, Missouri |
M3.9 |
147 km |
| Jun 4, 2014 |
3 km ESE of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
147 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
146 km |
| Sep 12, 2019 |
13 km N of Big Flat, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
93 km |
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
36 km |
| Nov 15, 1990 |
16 km NNW of Hector, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
117 km |
| Jun 27, 2000 |
15 km WSW of Marshall, Arkansas |
M3.4 |
97 km |
| Mar 30, 2001 |
1 km SW of Hermitage, Missouri |
M3.1 |
144 km |
| Jun 16, 2017 |
6 km N of Bergman, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
36 km |
| Apr 3, 2013 |
10 km WSW of Clinton, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
135 km |
| Sep 16, 1990 |
6 km S of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
149 km |
| Mar 12, 1990 |
9 km NNE of Briarcliff, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
92 km |
| Jul 28, 2016 |
4 km ENE of Dover, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
137 km |
| Nov 26, 1999 |
9 km NNE of Mountain Home, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
81 km |
| Sep 5, 2013 |
17 km W of Dennard, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
111 km |
| Jul 3, 2014 |
6 km S of Yellville, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
72 km |
| Jan 7, 2009 |
10 km WSW of Clinton, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
133 km |
| Jan 27, 2014 |
Arkansas |
M2.7 |
136 km |
| Jul 22, 2017 |
14 km SW of Mountain View, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
128 km |
| Feb 14, 2019 |
11 km WSW of Mountain View, Missouri |
M2.6 |
130 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
492 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 42 fatalities, 657 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Nov 29, 1991 |
EF4 |
51 km |
2 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF4 |
90 km |
2 |
| Sep 26, 1959 |
EF4 |
92 km |
0 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
69 km |
1 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
54 km |
4 |
| Jan 7, 2008 |
EF3 |
71 km |
3 |
| Mar 1, 2007 |
EF3 |
96 km |
1 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
64 km |
1 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
74 km |
0 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
93 km |
7 |
| Nov 18, 1985 |
EF3 |
71 km |
3 |
| Apr 29, 1983 |
EF3 |
65 km |
1 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
41 km |
0 |
| Mar 26, 1976 |
EF3 |
96 km |
1 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
55 km |
1 |
| Dec 14, 1971 |
EF3 |
71 km |
0 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF3 |
81 km |
3 |
| May 7, 1961 |
EF3 |
70 km |
3 |
| May 7, 1961 |
EF3 |
81 km |
0 |
| Mar 24, 1954 |
EF3 |
41 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: DEAD HORSE (10,389 ac, 2007).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2007 |
DEAD HORSE |
10,389 |
89 km |
| 2004 |
LOWER WILD |
10,034 |
89 km |
| 2013 |
LOWER WILDERNESS RX |
8,699 |
88 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
6,931 |
36 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
6,686 |
36 km |
| 2010 |
BRUSHY/CLAYTON |
6,401 |
37 km |
| 2020 |
BIG CREEK |
6,399 |
36 km |
| 2001 |
UNNAMED |
6,354 |
93 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
5,504 |
99 km |
| 2020 |
CAVE CREEK |
4,263 |
80 km |
| 2010 |
BIG PINEY PARKER RIDGE |
4,133 |
100 km |
| 2016 |
BIG CREEK |
4,031 |
35 km |
| 2002 |
UNNAMED |
3,967 |
100 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
3,877 |
98 km |
| 2020 |
BIG POINT |
3,853 |
100 km |
| 2016 |
BIG POINT |
3,834 |
100 km |
| 2011 |
11 GENE RUSH #2 |
3,524 |
77 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
3,458 |
100 km |
| 2003 |
UNNAMED |
3,347 |
96 km |
| 2019 |
RX - SLUSHER BLACKLINE |
3,101 |
94 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
34°F (1°C) |
2.0 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
39°F (4°C) |
2.4 in |
|
| March |
48°F (9°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| April |
57°F (14°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| May |
65°F (19°C) |
4.7 in |
Wettest |
| June |
73°F (23°C) |
4.5 in |
|
| July |
78°F (26°C) |
3.2 in |
Warmest |
| August |
77°F (25°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| September |
70°F (21°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| October |
59°F (15°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| November |
48°F (9°C) |
4.0 in |
|
| December |
38°F (4°C) |
3.3 in |
|
Branson has a seasonal temperature swing of 45°F / from 34°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 43.4 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.7") and January the driest (2.0").
Average costs for common services in Branson. 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 Branson
What is the population of Branson?
Branson has a population of 12,760 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 598 people per square mile, spread across 21.3 square miles. The median age of residents is 38.2 years. The population is 54.9% female and 45.1% male.
Is Branson expensive to live in?
Branson 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 $54,961, 27% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $237,900 (16% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $999 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 4.3x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Branson safe?
Public safety is a concern in Branson, with a violent crime rate of 625 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 10,036 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Branson receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Branson?
Branson enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winter temperatures average 34°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. The area receives 257 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 43.4 inches, with 2.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Branson?
Branson has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.6%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average commute time is 18 minutes, and 11.4% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Branson?
The median home value in Branson is $237,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $245,093. For renters, the median monthly rent is $999. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 45.9%.
How are the schools in Branson?
Schools in Branson score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 29.4% of adults in Branson hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 91.2% have completed high school. 6.8% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Branson?
The obesity rate in Branson is 36.6% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 17.7% of adults are smokers. 30.1% are physically inactive. 25.3% of residents report depression. 11.0% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Branson?
The average commute in Branson is 18 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 71.7% of workers drive alone to work, and 11.4% work from home.
What are the demographics of Branson?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Branson is 81.4% White, 4.6% Black or African American, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino. 92% of residents speak only English at home, while 8% speak Spanish. 8.6% of the population are military veterans. 15.8% of residents have a disability. 80.4% have health insurance coverage.