Median Income
$103,594
38% higher than US avg
Home Value
$256,000
9% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
27.7%
18% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$425
63% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
34.7%
8% higher than US avg
Unemployment
1.6%
56% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
1.1%
91% lower than US avg
How Taos Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population1,334
Median Age43.5 yrs
Density207/mi²
Male / Female50% / 50%
Largest GroupWhite 96%
Veterans7.3%
Economy
A+
Median Income$103,594
Per Capita$41,650
Unemployment1.6%
Poverty1.1%
Commute23 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$256,000
Rent$425
Ownership91.7%
Zillow$290,996
Housing Units497
Rent Burden16.1%
Health
Obesity34.7%
Uninsured3.1%
Smoking15.4%
Depression25.9%
Heart Disease5.0%
Climate
Avg Temp56°F (14°C)
Rain39.7 in/yr
Elevation738 ft (225 m)
Education
B
Bachelor's+27.7%
High School+95.4%
Graduate+9.6%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute23 min
Broadband88.3%
EV Stations13
Is Taos a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Taos receives an overall livability score of 4.4 out of 5.0, earning a grade of A. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, low unemployment, a low poverty rate, high health insurance coverage. Taos stands out as an excellent place to live, with strong marks across most quality-of-life indicators.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Taos is $103,594, which is significantly higher than the national average / 38% above $75,149. This places Taos among higher-income communities. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 1.6%. Only 1.1% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Taos is $256,000, roughly aligned with the national median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $425 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2.5x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
27.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 95.4% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Taos enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F. Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 39.7 inches, including 8.9 inches of snow.
Taos has a population of 1,334 with a density of 207 people per square mile, spread across 2.3 square miles. The median age is 43.5 years, 12% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 50.1% female and 49.9% male. The city is predominantly White (96.2%), with 2.1% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 98.8% of residents. 7.3% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 13.6% of residents have a disability. 96.9% have health insurance coverage.
Population
1,334
Total Population
2023 Census
43.5yrs
Median Age
12% above US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
98.8%
26% above US avg
Spanish
1.8%
87% below US avg
The median household income in Taos is $103,594, which is 38% above the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $41,650. The unemployment rate is 1.6% (below the 3.6% US average). 1.1% of residents live below the poverty line, lower 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). 4.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $103,594 |
| 38% above US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $41,650 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 1.6% |
| 56% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 1.1% |
| 91% below US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 22.6 min |
| Drive Alone | 85.9% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 4.0% |
The median home value in Taos is $256,000, 9% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $290,996, higher than the Census estimate. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $519,000 with homes selling in an average of 31 days. Homes sell for 0% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $425 (63% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 91.7% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 497 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1981. 16.1% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.5x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $256,000 |
| 9% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $290,996 |
| Redfin Median Sale | $519,000 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median Sale Price | $519,000 |
| $/Sq Ft | $210 |
| Homes Sold | 1 |
| Days on Market | 31 days |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 0.0% |
| Price Drops | 50.0% |
| Inventory | 4 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $425 |
| 63% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 16.1% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 91.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 91.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 8.3% |
| Housing Units | 497 |
| Median Year Built | 1981 |
Property Tax
In Taos, 34.7% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 8.4% have diabetes (below the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 5.0% of residents. 30.7% have high blood pressure. 15.4% are current smokers. 20.2% report binge drinking. 26.3% are physically inactive. 25.9% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 18.6% experience frequent mental distress. 3.1% of residents lack health insurance (below the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Taos vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 34.7% |
| 8% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 8.4% |
| Heart Disease | 5.0% |
| High Blood Pressure | 30.7% |
| Asthma | 10.7% |
| COPD | 6.3% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 2.6% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 15.4% |
| 10% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 20.2% |
| Physical Inactivity | 26.3% |
| Depression | 25.9% |
| Mental Distress | 18.6% |
| Physical Distress | 12.8% |
| Short Sleep | 35.3% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 96.9% |
| Uninsured | 3.1% |
| 64% below US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.5% |
| Dental Visits | 65.9% |
Food & Exercise
Taos enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (14°C). Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 39.7 inches. The area receives 8.9 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 738 feet.
Temperature
32°F Jan (-0°C)
79°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 56.3°F |
| 4% above US avg |
| January Average | 32°F (-0°C) |
| July Average | 79°F (26°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 738 ft (225 m) |
| Area | 2.3 sq mi (5.9 km²) |
| Population Density | 207/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.5064°N, 92.0710°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Columbia Regional (COU)
23 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
39.7"
4% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.89"
Earthquake History
21 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.6 on Apr 23, 2025.
| Jun 7, 2011 |
18 km NNW of Potosi, Missouri |
M3.9 |
113 km |
| Aug 27, 1993 |
5 km SSE of Olympian Village, Missouri |
M3.3 |
150 km |
| Jul 31, 2005 |
Missouri |
M3.3 |
62 km |
| Mar 30, 2001 |
1 km SW of Hermitage, Missouri |
M3.1 |
127 km |
| Jan 21, 1992 |
5 km SE of Linn Creek, Missouri |
M3.1 |
77 km |
| Feb 8, 2004 |
6 km SSW of Stoutsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
111 km |
| Jul 8, 2003 |
1 km N of Leasburg, Missouri |
M2.9 |
81 km |
| May 18, 2006 |
9 km SSE of De Soto, Missouri |
M2.9 |
144 km |
| Apr 29, 2022 |
1 km SSW of Peerless Park, Missouri |
M2.8 |
137 km |
| Jul 31, 1995 |
8 km SSW of Caledonia, Missouri |
M2.8 |
143 km |
| May 5, 2008 |
3 km SSE of Fenton, Missouri |
M2.8 |
144 km |
| Jul 15, 1990 |
7 km SW of Potosi, Missouri |
M2.7 |
128 km |
| Sep 5, 2015 |
5 km SE of High Ridge, Missouri |
M2.7 |
138 km |
| Feb 3, 2014 |
18 km NW of Potosi, Missouri |
M2.6 |
111 km |
| Mar 7, 2009 |
7 km S of Miramiguoa Park, Missouri |
M2.6 |
94 km |
| Apr 4, 2015 |
3 km ESE of Clinton, Missouri |
M2.6 |
147 km |
| Sep 19, 2024 |
1 km S of Old Monroe, Missouri |
M2.6 |
124 km |
| Sep 11, 2019 |
6 km NNE of Bonne Terre, Missouri |
M2.6 |
147 km |
| Apr 23, 2025 |
3 km E of Hartville, Missouri |
M2.6 |
143 km |
| Apr 29, 2018 |
3 km WNW of Evergreen, Missouri |
M2.5 |
116 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
383 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF3. Total: 14 fatalities, 221 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| May 22, 2019 |
EF3 |
51 km |
0 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
67 km |
2 |
| Jan 7, 2008 |
EF3 |
67 km |
0 |
| Jan 7, 2008 |
EF3 |
66 km |
0 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
86 km |
0 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF3 |
97 km |
4 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
95 km |
4 |
| Jun 1, 1999 |
EF3 |
66 km |
0 |
| Nov 10, 1998 |
EF3 |
54 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
53 km |
0 |
| Nov 27, 1990 |
EF3 |
54 km |
0 |
| May 1, 1983 |
EF3 |
15 km |
0 |
| Jun 12, 1970 |
EF3 |
75 km |
0 |
| Apr 15, 2023 |
EF2 |
47 km |
0 |
| May 11, 2016 |
EF2 |
87 km |
0 |
| Jun 19, 2011 |
EF2 |
95 km |
0 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF2 |
29 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 2006 |
EF2 |
72 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 |
100 km |
| 2010 |
UNNAMED |
4,767 |
98 km |
| 2023 |
ELM SPRINGS RX |
4,378 |
77 km |
| 2023 |
CANNON RANGE RX |
3,870 |
99 km |
| 1992 |
UNNAMED |
3,538 |
98 km |
| 1994 |
UNNAMED |
3,336 |
93 km |
| 2021 |
KAINTUCK |
3,325 |
75 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
2,831 |
76 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
2,590 |
99 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
2,575 |
98 km |
| 2002 |
UNNAMED |
2,418 |
95 km |
| 2024 |
KAINTUCK SOUTH RX |
2,387 |
79 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,369 |
92 km |
| 2024 |
FLW RANGE COMPLEX RX |
2,309 |
95 km |
| 2014 |
UNNAMED |
2,090 |
79 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
2,062 |
94 km |
| 2014 |
UNNAMED |
1,678 |
92 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
1,675 |
95 km |
| 2023 |
MERRILL HOLLOW RX |
1,641 |
73 km |
| 1990 |
UNNAMED |
1,528 |
99 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
32°F (-0°C) |
2.0 in |
Coldest |
| February |
37°F (3°C) |
1.9 in |
Driest |
| March |
46°F (8°C) |
2.9 in |
|
| April |
57°F (14°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| May |
66°F (19°C) |
4.9 in |
Wettest |
| June |
75°F (24°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| July |
79°F (26°C) |
4.4 in |
Warmest |
| August |
77°F (25°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| September |
69°F (20°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| October |
58°F (14°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| November |
46°F (8°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| December |
36°F (2°C) |
2.1 in |
|
Taos has a seasonal temperature swing of 47°F / from 32°F in January to 79°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 39.7 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.9") and February the driest (1.9").
Average costs for common services in Taos. 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 Taos
What is the population of Taos?
Taos has a population of 1,334 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 207 people per square mile, spread across 2.3 square miles. The median age of residents is 43.5 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 50.1% female and 49.9% male.
Is Taos expensive to live in?
Taos 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 $103,594, 38% above the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $256,000 (9% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $425 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
What is the weather like in Taos?
Taos enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (14°C). Winter temperatures average 32°F in January, while summers reach an average of 79°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 39.7 inches, with 8.9 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Taos?
The job market in Taos is very strong, with unemployment at just 1.6% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average commute time is 23 minutes, and 4.0% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Taos?
The median home value in Taos is $256,000. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $290,996. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $519,000, with homes typically selling within 31 days. For renters, the median monthly rent is $425. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 91.7%.
How are the schools in Taos?
Schools in Taos score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 27.7% of adults in Taos hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 95.4% have completed high school. 9.6% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Taos?
The obesity rate in Taos is 34.7% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 15.4% of adults are smokers. 26.3% are physically inactive. 25.9% of residents report depression. 3.1% lack health insurance (below the national rate).
What is transportation like in Taos?
The average commute in Taos is 23 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 85.9% of workers drive alone to work, and 4.0% work from home.
What are the demographics of Taos?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Taos is 96.2% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino. 98.8% of residents speak only English at home. 7.3% of the population are military veterans. 13.6% of residents have a disability. 96.9% have health insurance coverage.