Median Income
$35,903
52% lower than US avg
Home Value
$118,700
58% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
1,228/100K
223% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
13.3%
61% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$771
34% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
46.9%
46% higher than US avg
Unemployment
7.3%
103% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
25.7%
107% higher than US avg
How Caruthersville Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population5,426
Median Age36.2 yrs
Density1,052/mi²
Male / Female47% / 53%
Largest GroupWhite 58%
Veterans7.0%
Economy
D
Median Income$35,903
Per Capita$26,229
Unemployment7.3%
Poverty25.7%
Commute18 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$118,700
Rent$771
Ownership46.7%
Zillow$78,312
Housing Units2,555
Rent Burden33.5%
Crime
F
Violent1,228/100K
Property3,782/100K
Health
Obesity46.9%
Uninsured16.7%
Smoking27.5%
Depression26.5%
Heart Disease8.2%
Climate
Avg Temp60°F (16°C)
Rain55.3 in/yr
Elevation279 ft (85 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+13.3%
High School+80.9%
Graduate+4.7%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute18 min
Broadband83.4%
EV Stations1
Is Caruthersville a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Caruthersville receives an overall livability score of 2.4 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate. Caruthersville has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Caruthersville is $35,903, 52% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 7.3% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 25.7% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 18 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Caruthersville is $118,700, 58% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $771 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 3.3x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
With 1,228 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 3,782 per 100,000, 93% above the national average.
Education
13.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 80.9% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Caruthersville enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F. Winters average 38°F in January while summers reach 81°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 55.3 inches, including 6.6 inches of snow.
Caruthersville has a population of 5,426 with a density of 1,052 people per square mile, spread across 5.2 square miles. The median age is 36.2 years, 7% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 53% female and 47% male. The city is predominantly White (57.9%), with 5.3% Hispanic, 34.5% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 94.5% of residents. 7.0% of the population are veterans. 22.1% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 83.3% have health insurance coverage.
Population
5,426
Total Population
2023 Census
36.2yrs
Median Age
7% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Caruthersville vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
94.5%
20% above US avg
Spanish
2.9%
78% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Caruthersville vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Caruthersville is $35,903, which is 52% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $26,229 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 7.3% (above the 3.6% US average). 25.7% 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. Workers commute an average of 18 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 3.9% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Caruthersville vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $35,903 |
| 52% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $26,229 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 7.3% |
| 103% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 25.7% |
| 107% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 17.9 min |
| Drive Alone | 74.6% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 3.9% |
The median home value in Caruthersville is $118,700, 58% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $78,312, lower than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $771 (34% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 46.7% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 2,555 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1971. 33.5% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.3x.
Home Values
| Census Median | $118,700 |
| 58% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $78,312 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $771 |
| 34% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 33.5% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 46.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 46.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 53.3% |
| Housing Units | 2,555 |
| Median Year Built | 1971 |
Property Tax
In Caruthersville, 46.9% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 16.5% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 8.2% of residents, above the national average. 42.3% have high blood pressure. 27.5% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 13.6% report binge drinking. 43.3% are physically inactive, above the national average. 26.5% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 22.7% experience frequent mental distress. 16.7% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Caruthersville vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 46.9% |
| 46% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 16.5% |
| Heart Disease | 8.2% |
| High Blood Pressure | 42.3% |
| Asthma | 12.8% |
| COPD | 12.6% |
| Cancer | 6.5% |
| Stroke | 5.2% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 27.5% |
| 96% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 13.6% |
| Physical Inactivity | 43.3% |
| Depression | 26.5% |
| Mental Distress | 22.7% |
| Physical Distress | 19.5% |
| Short Sleep | 46.1% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 83.3% |
| Uninsured | 16.7% |
| 94% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 78.5% |
| Dental Visits | 42.5% |
Food & Exercise
Caruthersville has a violent crime rate of 1,228 per 100,000 residents, 223% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 3,782 per 100,000, 93% above the U.S. average. Overall, Caruthersville receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Caruthersville vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 1,228.3/100K |
| 223% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,782.4/100K |
| 93% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Traffic Accidents | 19 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.4 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Caruthersville enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (16°C). Winters average 38°F in January while summers reach 81°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 55.3 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 6.6 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 279 feet.
Temperature
38°F Jan (3°C)
81°F Jul (27°C)
| Annual Average | 60.3°F |
| 12% above US avg |
| January Average | 38°F (3°C) |
| July Average | 81°F (27°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 279 ft (85 m) |
| Area | 5.2 sq mi (13.6 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,052/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.1931°N, 89.6556°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Arkansas International (BYH)
23 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
55.3"
46% above US avg
Wettest Month (Apr)
6.12"
Earthquake History
404 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.8. Most recent: M3.1 on Aug 1, 2025.
| Sep 26, 1990 |
4 km SE of Chaffee, Missouri |
M4.8 |
107 km |
| May 4, 1991 |
2 km NNW of Risco, Missouri |
M4.5 |
45 km |
| May 1, 2005 |
5 km SSE of Manila, Arkansas |
M4.2 |
60 km |
| Feb 5, 1994 |
2 km WNW of Dongola, Illinois |
M4.2 |
137 km |
| Feb 10, 2005 |
3 km NNW of Etowah, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
72 km |
| Apr 30, 2003 |
1 km N of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M4.0 |
36 km |
| Jun 6, 2003 |
1 km NE of Bardwell, Kentucky |
M4.0 |
96 km |
| Jun 2, 2005 |
12 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M4.0 |
17 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
133 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
122 km |
| Oct 29, 2012 |
8 km SW of Parkin, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
141 km |
| Feb 21, 2012 |
4 km SSE of Bertrand, Missouri |
M3.9 |
78 km |
| Sep 17, 1997 |
2 km E of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
94 km |
| May 16, 2024 |
6 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M3.8 |
16 km |
| Nov 29, 1996 |
1 km W of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
39 km |
| Feb 23, 2013 |
7 km SW of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
103 km |
| Mar 2, 2010 |
2 km ENE of East Prairie, Missouri |
M3.7 |
71 km |
| Apr 24, 2019 |
12 km NNW of Dyersburg, Tennessee |
M3.7 |
20 km |
| Jan 16, 2018 |
4 km SW of Caruthersville, Missouri |
M3.6 |
4 km |
| Oct 15, 2017 |
6 km SE of Manila, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
58 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
587 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 195 fatalities, 1,795 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
92 km |
8 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
57 km |
57 |
| Feb 5, 2008 |
EF4 |
92 km |
0 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF4 |
94 km |
11 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF4 |
81 km |
0 |
| Jan 17, 1999 |
EF4 |
98 km |
6 |
| Apr 16, 1998 |
EF4 |
59 km |
2 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
45 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
67 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
27 km |
1 |
| Apr 22, 1981 |
EF4 |
82 km |
1 |
| May 7, 1971 |
EF4 |
80 km |
3 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
22 km |
17 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
45 km |
2 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
36 km |
4 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
68 km |
0 |
| Mar 31, 2023 |
EF3 |
83 km |
1 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
36 km |
0 |
| Nov 17, 2013 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Feb 29, 2012 |
EF3 |
92 km |
1 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Tsunami History
1 tsunami recorded within 500 km.
| Year |
Location |
Cause |
Max Wave |
Deaths |
Distance |
| 1811 |
AR: NE - NEW MADRID EARTHQUAKES |
Eruption + Earthquake |
- |
- |
94 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
38°F (3°C) |
4.0 in |
Coldest |
| February |
42°F (6°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| March |
50°F (10°C) |
5.3 in |
|
| April |
60°F (16°C) |
6.1 in |
Wettest |
| May |
70°F (21°C) |
5.9 in |
|
| June |
78°F (26°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| July |
81°F (27°C) |
3.8 in |
Warmest |
| August |
80°F (26°C) |
3.1 in |
Driest |
| September |
73°F (23°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| October |
62°F (16°C) |
4.6 in |
|
| November |
50°F (10°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| December |
41°F (5°C) |
5.2 in |
|
Caruthersville has a seasonal temperature swing of 43°F / from 38°F in January to 81°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 55.3 inches, with April being the wettest month (6.1") and August the driest (3.1").
Average costs for common services in Caruthersville. 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 Caruthersville
What is the population of Caruthersville?
Caruthersville has a population of 5,426 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 1,052 people per square mile, spread across 5.2 square miles. The median age of residents is 36.2 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 53% female and 47% male.
Is Caruthersville expensive to live in?
Caruthersville 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 $35,903, 52% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $118,700 (58% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $771 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Caruthersville safe?
Public safety is a concern in Caruthersville, with a violent crime rate of 1,228 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 3,782 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Caruthersville receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Caruthersville?
Caruthersville enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (16°C). Winter temperatures average 38°F in January, while summers reach an average of 81°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 55.3 inches, with 6.6 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Caruthersville?
The unemployment rate in Caruthersville is 7.3%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average commute time is 18 minutes, and 3.9% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Caruthersville?
The median home value in Caruthersville is $118,700. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $78,312. For renters, the median monthly rent is $771. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 46.7%.
How are the schools in Caruthersville?
Schools in Caruthersville score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 13.3% of adults in Caruthersville hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 80.9% have completed high school. 4.7% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Caruthersville?
The obesity rate in Caruthersville is 46.9% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 27.5% of adults are smokers. 43.3% are physically inactive. 26.5% of residents report depression. 16.7% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Caruthersville?
The average commute in Caruthersville is 18 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 74.6% of workers drive alone to work, and 3.9% work from home.
What are the demographics of Caruthersville?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Caruthersville is 57.9% White, 34.5% Black or African American, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino. 94.5% of residents speak only English at home. 7.0% of the population are military veterans. 22.1% of residents have a disability. 83.3% have health insurance coverage.