Median Income
$37,125
51% lower than US avg
Home Value
$73,800
74% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
644/100K
69% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
6.9%
80% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$938
19% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
40.6%
26% higher than US avg
Unemployment
5.0%
39% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
35.0%
182% higher than US avg
How Fair Play Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population470
Median Age46.8 yrs
Density1,093/mi²
Male / Female53% / 47%
Largest GroupWhite 98%
Veterans9.2%
Economy
C
Median Income$37,125
Per Capita$21,363
Unemployment5.0%
Poverty35.0%
Commute31 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$73,800
Rent$938
Ownership50.2%
Zillow$255,738
Housing Units294
Rent Burden51.0%
Crime
F
Violent644/100K
Property215/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault429/100K
Burglary215/100K
Health
Obesity40.6%
Uninsured11.4%
Smoking21.9%
Depression27.6%
Heart Disease7.0%
Climate
Avg Temp56°F (13°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain43.0 in/yr
Sunny Days258/yr
Elevation984 ft (300 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+6.9%
High School+83.7%
Graduate+2.2%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute31 min
Broadband55.2%
EV Stations1
Is Fair Play a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Fair Play receives an overall livability score of 2.4 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. Fair Play has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Fair Play is $37,125, 51% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.0% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 35.0% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 31 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Fair Play is $73,800, 74% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $938 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
With 644 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 215 per 100,000, 89% below the national average.
Education
6.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 83.7% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Fair Play enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F. Winters average 30°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. With 258 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 43.0 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Fair Play has a population of 470 with a density of 1,093 people per square mile, spread across 0.4 square miles. The median age is 46.8 years, 20% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 47.4% female and 52.6% male. The city is predominantly White (98.3%), with 1.7% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 98% of residents. 9.2% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 33.6% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 86.2% have health insurance coverage.
Population
46.8yrs
Median Age
20% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Fair Play vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
98.0%
25% above US avg
Spanish
2.0%
85% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Fair Play vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Fair Play is $37,125, which is 51% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $21,363 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 5.0% (above the 3.6% US average). 35.0% 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. Workers commute an average of 31 minutes. 1.1% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Fair Play vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $37,125 |
| 51% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $21,363 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.0% |
| 39% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 35.0% |
| 182% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 31.0 min |
| Drive Alone | 86.9% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 1.1% |
The median home value in Fair Play is $73,800, 74% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $255,738, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $938 (19% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 50.2% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 294 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1969. 51.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing, indicating a significant affordability challenge for renters. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $73,800 |
| 74% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $255,738 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $938 |
| 19% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 51.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 50.2% |
| Owner-Occupied | 50.2% |
| Renter-Occupied | 49.8% |
| Housing Units | 294 |
| Median Year Built | 1969 |
Property Tax
In Fair Play, 40.6% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.9% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 7.0% of residents, above the national average. 35.6% have high blood pressure. 21.9% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 17.4% report binge drinking. 34.2% are physically inactive, above the national average. 27.6% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 20.9% experience frequent mental distress. 11.4% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Fair Play vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 40.6% |
| 26% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 11.9% |
| Heart Disease | 7.0% |
| High Blood Pressure | 35.6% |
| Asthma | 11.3% |
| COPD | 9.7% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 3.7% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 21.9% |
| 56% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 17.4% |
| Physical Inactivity | 34.2% |
| Depression | 27.6% |
| Mental Distress | 20.9% |
| Physical Distress | 16.2% |
| Short Sleep | 41.1% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 86.2% |
| Uninsured | 11.4% |
| 33% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.9% |
| Dental Visits | 49.6% |
Food & Exercise
Fair Play has a violent crime rate of 644 per 100,000 residents, 69% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 429.2 per 100,000, robbery at 0.0, rape at 214.6. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 215 per 100,000, 89% below the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 0, burglary at 215, vehicle theft at 0 per 100,000 residents. Overall, Fair Play receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Fair Play vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 643.8/100K |
| 69% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 214.6/100K |
| Robbery | 0.0/100K |
| Assault | 429.2/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 214.6/100K |
| 89% below US avg |
| Burglary | 214.6/100K |
| Theft | 0.0/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 0.0/100K |
| Arson | 0.0/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Fair Play enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winters average 30°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. The area gets 258 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 43.0 inches. The area receives 4.3 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 984 feet.
Temperature
30°F Jan (-1°C)
78°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 55.6°F |
| 3% above US avg |
| January Average | 30°F (-1°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (26°C) |
| Sunny Days | 258 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 984 ft (300 m) |
| Area | 0.4 sq mi (1.1 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,093/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 37.6300°N, 93.5733°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Joplin Regional (JLN)
59 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
43.0"
13% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jun)
4.92"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
11 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.6. Most recent: M2.6 on Apr 23, 2025.
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
149 km |
| May 18, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
99 km |
| Jul 31, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
142 km |
| Mar 30, 2001 |
1 km SW of Hermitage, Missouri |
M3.1 |
40 km |
| Jan 21, 1992 |
5 km SE of Linn Creek, Missouri |
M3.1 |
89 km |
| Jun 16, 2017 |
6 km N of Bergman, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
149 km |
| Apr 4, 2015 |
3 km ESE of Clinton, Missouri |
M2.6 |
83 km |
| Apr 23, 2025 |
3 km E of Hartville, Missouri |
M2.6 |
106 km |
| Apr 29, 2018 |
3 km WNW of Evergreen, Missouri |
M2.5 |
84 km |
| Jun 21, 2017 |
6 km N of Bergman, Arkansas |
M2.5 |
149 km |
| May 13, 2015 |
8 km E of Lead Hill, Arkansas |
M2.5 |
149 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
472 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 36 fatalities, 464 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Nov 29, 1991 |
EF4 |
64 km |
2 |
| Sep 26, 1959 |
EF4 |
86 km |
0 |
| May 22, 2019 |
EF3 |
69 km |
3 |
| Jan 7, 2008 |
EF3 |
53 km |
3 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
75 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
28 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
75 km |
1 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
72 km |
4 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
84 km |
5 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
97 km |
7 |
| May 4, 1999 |
EF3 |
50 km |
0 |
| May 17, 1995 |
EF3 |
82 km |
0 |
| Apr 29, 1983 |
EF3 |
49 km |
1 |
| Mar 15, 1982 |
EF3 |
50 km |
0 |
| Mar 26, 1976 |
EF3 |
86 km |
1 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
21 km |
0 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
79 km |
0 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
45 km |
0 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
89 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (7,388 ac, 1994).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
7,388 |
65 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
5,344 |
70 km |
| 2006 |
BIG SPRING FIRE |
4,921 |
64 km |
| 2010 |
UNNAMED |
4,767 |
67 km |
| 2009 |
MOUNTAIN CREEK |
4,322 |
70 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
4,179 |
63 km |
| 1992 |
UNNAMED |
3,538 |
67 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
3,533 |
68 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
3,492 |
59 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
3,336 |
75 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
3,135 |
64 km |
| 2012 |
KINFOLK RD |
2,883 |
70 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,763 |
64 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
2,710 |
64 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
2,590 |
66 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
2,575 |
67 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,569 |
73 km |
| 2002 |
UNNAMED |
2,418 |
73 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,369 |
75 km |
| 2021 |
UNNAMED |
2,166 |
64 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
30°F (-1°C) |
1.7 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
36°F (2°C) |
2.1 in |
|
| March |
46°F (8°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| April |
55°F (13°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| May |
64°F (18°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| June |
73°F (23°C) |
4.9 in |
Wettest |
| July |
78°F (26°C) |
3.3 in |
Warmest |
| August |
77°F (25°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| September |
69°F (21°C) |
4.7 in |
|
| October |
58°F (14°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| November |
46°F (8°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| December |
36°F (2°C) |
2.7 in |
|
Fair Play has a seasonal temperature swing of 48°F / from 30°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 43.0 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.9") and January the driest (1.7").
Average costs for common services in Fair Play. 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 Fair Play
What is the population of Fair Play?
Fair Play has a population of 470 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 1,093 people per square mile, spread across 0.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 46.8 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 47.4% female and 52.6% male.
Is Fair Play expensive to live in?
Fair Play 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 $37,125, 51% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $73,800 (74% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $938 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Fair Play safe?
Public safety is a concern in Fair Play, with a violent crime rate of 644 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 215 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Fair Play receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Fair Play?
Fair Play enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winter temperatures average 30°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. The area receives 258 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 43.0 inches, with 4.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Fair Play?
The unemployment rate in Fair Play is 5.0%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average commute time is 31 minutes, and 1.1% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Fair Play?
The median home value in Fair Play is $73,800. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $255,738. For renters, the median monthly rent is $938. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 50.2%.
How are the schools in Fair Play?
Schools in Fair Play score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 6.9% of adults in Fair Play hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 83.7% have completed high school. 2.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Fair Play?
The obesity rate in Fair Play is 40.6% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 21.9% of adults are smokers. 34.2% are physically inactive. 27.6% of residents report depression. 11.4% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Fair Play?
The average commute in Fair Play is 31 minutes, longer than the national average of 28 minutes. 86.9% of workers drive alone to work, and 1.1% work from home.
What are the demographics of Fair Play?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Fair Play is 98.3% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino. 98% of residents speak only English at home. 9.2% of the population are military veterans. 33.6% of residents have a disability. 86.2% have health insurance coverage.
All Countries
