Median Income
$50,000
33% lower than US avg
Home Value
$111,800
60% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
10.3%
69% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$1,102
5% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
38.7%
21% higher than US avg
Unemployment
10.5%
192% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
18.9%
52% higher than US avg
How Merriam Woods Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population2,203
Median Age34.0 yrs
Density1,449/mi²
Male / Female52% / 48%
Largest GroupWhite 87%
Veterans8.6%
Economy
C
Median Income$50,000
Per Capita$19,903
Unemployment10.5%
Poverty18.9%
Commute23 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$111,800
Rent$1,102
Ownership83.7%
Zillow$182,211
Housing Units815
Rent Burden35.0%
Health
Obesity38.7%
Uninsured21.4%
Smoking21.9%
Depression26.9%
Heart Disease7.0%
Climate
Avg Temp58°F (15°C)
Rain45.7 in/yr
Elevation932 ft (284 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+10.3%
High School+84.8%
Graduate+1.5%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute23 min
Broadband88.9%
EV Stations22
Is Merriam Woods a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Merriam Woods receives an overall livability score of 3.0 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate, a high uninsured rate. Merriam Woods offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Merriam Woods is $50,000, 33% below the national average of $75,149. At 10.5%, unemployment is notably high. The poverty rate of 18.9% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Merriam Woods is $111,800, 60% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $1,102 per month. At just 2.2x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
10.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 84.8% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Merriam Woods enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 58°F. Winters average 36°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 45.7 inches, including 6.8 inches of snow.
Merriam Woods has a population of 2,203 with a density of 1,449 people per square mile, spread across 1.6 square miles. The median age is 34.0 years, 13% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 48% female and 52% male. The city is predominantly White (87%), with 14.3% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 91.6% of residents, while 9.7% speak Spanish. 8.6% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 19.9% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 78.6% have health insurance coverage.
Population
2,203
Total Population
2023 Census
34.0yrs
Median Age
13% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Merriam Woods vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
91.6%
17% above US avg
Spanish
9.7%
28% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Merriam Woods vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Merriam Woods is $50,000, which is 33% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $19,903 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 10.5% (above the 3.6% US average). 18.9% 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 23 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 3.4% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Merriam Woods vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $50,000 |
| 33% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $19,903 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 10.5% |
| 192% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 18.9% |
| 52% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 23.1 min |
| Drive Alone | 69.8% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 3.4% |
The median home value in Merriam Woods is $111,800, 60% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $182,211, higher than the Census estimate. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $202,500 with homes selling in an average of 58 days. Homes sell for 0% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $1,102 (5% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 83.7% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 815 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 2000. 35.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.2x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $111,800 |
| 60% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $182,211 |
| Redfin Median Sale | $202,500 |
| Median List Price | $237,500 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median Sale Price | $202,500 |
| Median List Price | $237,500 |
| $/Sq Ft | $146 |
| Homes Sold | 2 |
| Days on Market | 58 days |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 0.0% |
| Price Drops | 0.0% |
| Inventory | 10 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $1,102 |
| 5% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 35.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 83.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 83.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 16.3% |
| Housing Units | 815 |
| Median Year Built | 2000 |
Property Tax
In Merriam Woods, 38.7% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 12.0% 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). 16.6% report binge drinking. 34.0% are physically inactive, above the national average. 26.9% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 21.0% experience frequent mental distress. 21.4% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Merriam Woods vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 38.7% |
| 21% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 12.0% |
| Heart Disease | 7.0% |
| High Blood Pressure | 35.6% |
| Asthma | 11.4% |
| COPD | 9.5% |
| Cancer | 7.3% |
| Stroke | 3.7% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 21.9% |
| 56% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 16.6% |
| Physical Inactivity | 34.0% |
| Depression | 26.9% |
| Mental Distress | 21.0% |
| Physical Distress | 16.8% |
| Short Sleep | 40.4% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 78.6% |
| Uninsured | 21.4% |
| 149% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 74.8% |
| Dental Visits | 49.7% |
Food & Exercise
Merriam Woods enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 58°F (15°C). Winters average 36°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 45.7 inches. The area receives 6.8 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 932 feet.
Temperature
36°F Jan (2°C)
79°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 58.2°F |
| 8% above US avg |
| January Average | 36°F (2°C) |
| July Average | 79°F (26°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 932 ft (284 m) |
| Area | 1.6 sq mi (4.1 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,449/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.7140°N, 93.1619°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Marion County Regional (FLP)
43 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
45.7"
20% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
5.28"
Earthquake History
35 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 |
142 km |
| Sep 12, 2019 |
13 km N of Big Flat, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
94 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
140 km |
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
41 km |
| Nov 15, 1990 |
16 km NNW of Hector, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
124 km |
| Jun 27, 2000 |
15 km WSW of Marshall, Arkansas |
M3.4 |
103 km |
| Mar 30, 2001 |
1 km SW of Hermitage, Missouri |
M3.1 |
136 km |
| Jan 21, 1992 |
5 km SE of Linn Creek, Missouri |
M3.1 |
150 km |
| Mar 18, 1990 |
9 km W of Alton, Missouri |
M3.0 |
148 km |
| Jun 16, 2017 |
6 km N of Bergman, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
41 km |
| Mar 12, 1990 |
9 km NNE of Briarcliff, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
90 km |
| Apr 3, 2013 |
10 km WSW of Clinton, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
140 km |
| Jul 28, 2016 |
4 km ENE of Dover, Arkansas |
M2.8 |
144 km |
| Jan 27, 2014 |
Arkansas |
M2.7 |
140 km |
| Nov 26, 1999 |
9 km NNE of Mountain Home, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
79 km |
| Sep 5, 2013 |
17 km W of Dennard, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
117 km |
| Jul 3, 2014 |
6 km S of Yellville, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
75 km |
| Jan 7, 2009 |
10 km WSW of Clinton, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
138 km |
| Jul 22, 2017 |
14 km SW of Mountain View, Arkansas |
M2.7 |
131 km |
| Feb 14, 2019 |
11 km WSW of Mountain View, Missouri |
M2.6 |
123 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
480 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 45 fatalities, 673 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Nov 29, 1991 |
EF4 |
45 km |
2 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF4 |
86 km |
2 |
| Sep 26, 1959 |
EF4 |
83 km |
0 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
72 km |
1 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
61 km |
4 |
| Jan 7, 2008 |
EF3 |
63 km |
3 |
| Mar 1, 2007 |
EF3 |
91 km |
1 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
64 km |
1 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
65 km |
0 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
95 km |
7 |
| Nov 18, 1985 |
EF3 |
74 km |
3 |
| Apr 29, 1983 |
EF3 |
60 km |
1 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
46 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
98 km |
2 |
| Apr 11, 1979 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| Mar 26, 1976 |
EF3 |
97 km |
1 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
63 km |
1 |
| Dec 14, 1971 |
EF3 |
72 km |
0 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF3 |
79 km |
3 |
| May 7, 1961 |
EF3 |
82 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 |
90 km |
| 2004 |
LOWER WILD |
10,034 |
90 km |
| 2013 |
LOWER WILDERNESS RX |
8,699 |
90 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
6,931 |
30 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
6,686 |
32 km |
| 2010 |
BRUSHY/CLAYTON |
6,401 |
31 km |
| 2020 |
BIG CREEK |
6,399 |
32 km |
| 2001 |
UNNAMED |
6,354 |
100 km |
| 2020 |
CAVE CREEK |
4,263 |
86 km |
| 2016 |
BIG CREEK |
4,031 |
31 km |
| 2011 |
11 GENE RUSH #2 |
3,524 |
83 km |
| 2021 |
BP BEAR CAT |
3,013 |
97 km |
| 2016 |
UNNAMED |
2,886 |
96 km |
| 2021 |
GOETZ |
2,615 |
31 km |
| 2021 |
21 LICK CREEK |
2,555 |
83 km |
| 2009 |
GENE RUSH |
2,540 |
86 km |
| 2003 |
GENE RUSH1 |
2,435 |
85 km |
| 2019 |
SWAN CREEK |
2,365 |
24 km |
| 2017 |
RX - BIG CREEK INTERAGENCY |
2,302 |
83 km |
| 2005 |
NORTH RIVER ROAD RX |
2,259 |
72 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
36°F (2°C) |
2.7 in |
Coldest |
| February |
40°F (4°C) |
2.5 in |
Driest |
| March |
48°F (9°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| April |
58°F (14°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| May |
67°F (19°C) |
5.3 in |
Wettest |
| June |
75°F (24°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| July |
79°F (26°C) |
4.3 in |
Warmest |
| August |
78°F (26°C) |
3.1 in |
|
| September |
71°F (22°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| October |
59°F (15°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| November |
48°F (9°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| December |
39°F (4°C) |
2.8 in |
|
Merriam Woods has a seasonal temperature swing of 43°F / from 36°F in January to 79°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 45.7 inches, with May being the wettest month (5.3") and February the driest (2.5").
Average costs for common services in Merriam Woods. 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 Merriam Woods
What is the population of Merriam Woods?
Merriam Woods has a population of 2,203 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 1,449 people per square mile, spread across 1.6 square miles. The median age of residents is 34.0 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 48% female and 52% male.
Is Merriam Woods expensive to live in?
Merriam Woods 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 $50,000, 33% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $111,800 (60% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,102 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
What is the weather like in Merriam Woods?
Merriam Woods enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 58°F (15°C). Winter temperatures average 36°F in January, while summers reach an average of 79°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 45.7 inches, with 6.8 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Merriam Woods?
The job market in Merriam Woods faces challenges, with unemployment at 10.5% / significantly above the national rate of 3.6%. The average commute time is 23 minutes, and 3.4% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Merriam Woods?
The median home value in Merriam Woods is $111,800. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $182,211. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $202,500, with homes typically selling within 58 days. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,102. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 83.7%.
How are the schools in Merriam Woods?
Schools in Merriam Woods score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 10.3% of adults in Merriam Woods hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 84.8% have completed high school. 1.5% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Merriam Woods?
The obesity rate in Merriam Woods is 38.7% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 21.9% of adults are smokers. 34.0% are physically inactive. 26.9% of residents report depression. 21.4% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Merriam Woods?
The average commute in Merriam Woods is 23 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 69.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 3.4% work from home.
What are the demographics of Merriam Woods?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Merriam Woods is 87% White, 0.9% Black or African American, 14.3% Hispanic or Latino. 91.6% of residents speak only English at home, while 9.7% speak Spanish. 8.6% of the population are military veterans. 19.9% of residents have a disability. 78.6% have health insurance coverage.