Median Income
$46,111
39% lower than US avg
Home Value
$92,000
67% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
383/100K
1% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
9.4%
72% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$717
38% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
37.5%
17% higher than US avg
Unemployment
6.4%
78% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
16.9%
36% higher than US avg
How Sweet Springs Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population1,299
Median Age36.8 yrs
Density783/mi²
Male / Female52% / 49%
Largest GroupWhite 91%
Veterans5.8%
Economy
C+
Median Income$46,111
Per Capita$27,176
Unemployment6.4%
Poverty16.9%
Commute24 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$92,000
Rent$717
Ownership66.4%
Zillow$153,812
Housing Units541
Rent Burden25.4%
Crime
F
Violent383/100K
Property612/100K
Health
Obesity37.5%
Uninsured16.3%
Smoking18.5%
Depression26.3%
Heart Disease5.8%
Climate
Avg Temp54°F (12°C)
Rain42.5 in/yr
Elevation719 ft (219 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+9.4%
High School+87.6%
Graduate+2.4%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute24 min
Broadband83.2%
EV Stations3
Is Sweet Springs a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Sweet Springs receives an overall livability score of 2.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate, a high uninsured rate. Sweet Springs has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Sweet Springs is $46,111, 39% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 6.4% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 16.9% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 24 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Sweet Springs is $92,000, 67% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $717 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
The violent crime rate of 383 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 612 per 100,000, 69% below the national average.
Education
9.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 87.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Sweet Springs experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 54°F. Winters average 28°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 42.5 inches, including 12.2 inches of snow.
Sweet Springs has a population of 1,299 with a density of 783 people per square mile, spread across 0.0 square miles. The median age is 36.8 years, 5% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 48.5% female and 51.5% male. The city is predominantly White (90.9%), with 1.8% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 99.3% of residents. 5.8% of the population are veterans. 17.9% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 83.7% have health insurance coverage.
Population
1,299
Total Population
2023 Census
36.8yrs
Median Age
5% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Sweet Springs vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
99.3%
26% above US avg
Spanish
0.4%
97% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Sweet Springs vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Sweet Springs is $46,111, which is 39% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $27,176 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 6.4% (above the 3.6% US average). 16.9% 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 24 minutes. 4.5% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Sweet Springs vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $46,111 |
| 39% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $27,176 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 6.4% |
| 78% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 16.9% |
| 36% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 24.2 min |
| Drive Alone | 74.2% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 4.5% |
The median home value in Sweet Springs is $92,000, 67% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $153,812, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $717 (38% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 66.4% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 541 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1963. 25.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $92,000 |
| 67% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $153,812 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $717 |
| 38% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 25.4% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 66.4% |
| Owner-Occupied | 66.4% |
| Renter-Occupied | 33.6% |
| Housing Units | 541 |
| Median Year Built | 1963 |
Property Tax
In Sweet Springs, 37.5% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.0% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.8% of residents. 32.0% have high blood pressure. 18.5% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 18.7% report binge drinking. 30.0% are physically inactive, above the national average. 26.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 19.3% experience frequent mental distress. 16.3% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Sweet Springs vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 37.5% |
| 17% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 10.0% |
| Heart Disease | 5.8% |
| High Blood Pressure | 32.0% |
| Asthma | 10.7% |
| COPD | 7.5% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 3.1% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 18.5% |
| 32% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 18.7% |
| Physical Inactivity | 30.0% |
| Depression | 26.3% |
| Mental Distress | 19.3% |
| Physical Distress | 14.1% |
| Short Sleep | 41.1% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 83.7% |
| Uninsured | 16.3% |
| 90% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.2% |
| Dental Visits | 55.8% |
Food & Exercise
Sweet Springs has a violent crime rate of 383 per 100,000 residents, 1% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 612 per 100,000, 69% below the U.S. average. Overall, Sweet Springs receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Sweet Springs vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 382.6/100K |
| 1% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 612.1/100K |
| 69% below US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Traffic Accidents | 113 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.3 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Sweet Springs experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 54°F (12°C). Winters average 28°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 42.5 inches. The area receives 12.2 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 719 feet.
Temperature
28°F Jan (-2°C)
78°F Jul (25°C)
| Annual Average | 54.3°F |
| 1% above US avg |
| January Average | 28°F (-2°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (25°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 719 ft (219 m) |
| Area | 0.0 sq mi (0.1 km²) |
| Population Density | 783/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.9636°N, 93.4149°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Sedalia Regional (DMO)
22 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
42.5"
12% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
5.49"
Earthquake History
8 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.3. Most recent: M2.5 on Jul 15, 2025.
| May 18, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
74 km |
| Jul 31, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
66 km |
| Mar 30, 2001 |
1 km SW of Hermitage, Missouri |
M3.1 |
115 km |
| Jan 21, 1992 |
5 km SE of Linn Creek, Missouri |
M3.1 |
125 km |
| May 13, 1999 |
6 km WSW of Kansas City, Kansas |
M3.0 |
112 km |
| Feb 8, 2004 |
6 km SSW of Stoutsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
144 km |
| Apr 4, 2015 |
3 km ESE of Clinton, Missouri |
M2.6 |
73 km |
| Jul 15, 2025 |
3 km W of Hale, Missouri |
M2.5 |
71 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
423 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 13 fatalities, 335 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF4 |
97 km |
0 |
| May 4, 1977 |
EF4 |
64 km |
0 |
| May 4, 1977 |
EF4 |
82 km |
0 |
| Apr 23, 1975 |
EF4 |
95 km |
1 |
| Apr 19, 1973 |
EF4 |
49 km |
0 |
| Jun 12, 1970 |
EF4 |
80 km |
0 |
| Apr 21, 1967 |
EF4 |
85 km |
0 |
| May 22, 2019 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| Mar 6, 2017 |
EF3 |
71 km |
0 |
| May 2, 2008 |
EF3 |
100 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
90 km |
4 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
21 km |
0 |
| Nov 10, 1998 |
EF3 |
94 km |
0 |
| Jul 4, 1995 |
EF3 |
98 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
94 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
84 km |
0 |
| Mar 15, 1982 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| May 12, 1980 |
EF3 |
33 km |
0 |
| May 4, 1977 |
EF3 |
37 km |
0 |
| May 4, 1977 |
EF3 |
44 km |
1 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Wildfire History
16 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (2,763 ac, 1991).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,763 |
95 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
2,089 |
77 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
1,840 |
94 km |
| 2022 |
WOOLDRIDGE FIRE |
1,323 |
78 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
1,294 |
97 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
1,282 |
93 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
1,273 |
93 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
940 |
92 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
938 |
91 km |
| 2012 |
HIGHWAY E |
897 |
75 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
864 |
83 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
840 |
92 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
790 |
93 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
644 |
77 km |
| 2009 |
KNOBBY |
607 |
95 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
578 |
86 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
28°F (-2°C) |
1.5 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
33°F (1°C) |
2.0 in |
|
| March |
44°F (7°C) |
2.9 in |
|
| April |
54°F (12°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| May |
65°F (18°C) |
5.5 in |
Wettest |
| June |
74°F (23°C) |
4.5 in |
|
| July |
78°F (25°C) |
5.5 in |
Warmest |
| August |
76°F (24°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| September |
68°F (20°C) |
4.0 in |
|
| October |
56°F (13°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| November |
44°F (6°C) |
2.6 in |
|
| December |
33°F (1°C) |
2.1 in |
|
Sweet Springs has a seasonal temperature swing of 50°F / from 28°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 42.5 inches, with May being the wettest month (5.5") and January the driest (1.5").
Average costs for common services in Sweet Springs. 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 Sweet Springs
What is the population of Sweet Springs?
Sweet Springs has a population of 1,299 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 783 people per square mile, spread across 0.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 36.8 years. The population is 48.5% female and 51.5% male.
Is Sweet Springs expensive to live in?
Sweet Springs 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 $46,111, 39% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $92,000 (67% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $717 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 Sweet Springs safe?
The violent crime rate in Sweet Springs is 383 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 612 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Sweet Springs receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Sweet Springs?
Sweet Springs has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 54°F (12°C). Winter temperatures average 28°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 42.5 inches, with 12.2 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Sweet Springs?
The unemployment rate in Sweet Springs is 6.4%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average commute time is 24 minutes, and 4.5% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Sweet Springs?
The median home value in Sweet Springs is $92,000. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $153,812. For renters, the median monthly rent is $717. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 66.4%.
How are the schools in Sweet Springs?
Schools in Sweet Springs score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 9.4% of adults in Sweet Springs hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 87.6% have completed high school. 2.4% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Sweet Springs?
The obesity rate in Sweet Springs is 37.5% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 18.5% of adults are smokers. 30.0% are physically inactive. 26.3% of residents report depression. 16.3% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Sweet Springs?
The average commute in Sweet Springs is 24 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 74.2% of workers drive alone to work, and 4.5% work from home.
What are the demographics of Sweet Springs?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Sweet Springs is 90.9% White, 1% Black or African American, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino. 99.3% of residents speak only English at home. 5.8% of the population are military veterans. 17.9% of residents have a disability. 83.7% have health insurance coverage.