Median Income
$71,760
5% lower than US avg
Home Value
$199,100
29% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
401/100K
6% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
25.6%
24% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$847
27% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
39.2%
22% higher than US avg
Unemployment
5.2%
44% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
7.3%
41% lower than US avg
How Union Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population12,560
Median Age33.9 yrs
Density1,382/mi²
Male / Female51% / 49%
Largest GroupWhite 88%
Veterans9.6%
Economy
B+
Median Income$71,760
Per Capita$33,008
Unemployment5.2%
Poverty7.3%
Commute25 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$199,100
Rent$847
Ownership62.9%
Zillow$259,608
Housing Units5,119
Rent Burden21.2%
Crime
F
Violent401/100K
Property2,347/100K
Health
Obesity39.2%
Uninsured8.6%
Smoking16.7%
Depression27.1%
Heart Disease5.5%
Climate
Avg Temp57°F (14°C)
Rain45.0 in/yr
Elevation548 ft (167 m)
Education
B
Bachelor's+25.6%
High School+91.6%
Graduate+6.9%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute25 min
Broadband93.1%
EV Stations1
Is Union a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Union receives an overall livability score of 3.2 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include affordable housing, a low poverty rate, strong internet connectivity. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, high obesity rates. Union offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Union is $71,760, roughly in line with the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.2% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. Only 7.3% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 25 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Union is $199,100, 29% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $847 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2.8x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 401 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,347 per 100,000, near the national average.
Education
25.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 91.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Union enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F. Winters average 33°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 45.0 inches, including 14.4 inches of snow.
Union has a population of 12,560 with a density of 1,382 people per square mile, spread across 3.5 square miles. The median age is 33.9 years, 13% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 49% female and 51% male. The city is predominantly White (87.5%), with 2.8% Hispanic, 2% Black, 1.5% Asian. English is the primary language spoken at home by 97.6% of residents. 9.6% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 12.0% of residents have a disability. 91.4% have health insurance coverage.
Population
12,560
Total Population
2023 Census
33.9yrs
Median Age
13% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
97.6%
24% above US avg
Spanish
2.0%
85% below US avg
The median household income in Union is $71,760, which is 5% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $33,008 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 5.2% (above the 3.6% US average). 7.3% 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 25 minutes. 9.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $71,760 |
| 5% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $33,008 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.2% |
| 44% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 7.3% |
| 41% below US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 24.9 min |
| Drive Alone | 77.0% |
| Public Transit | 0.6% |
| Work from Home | 9.0% |
The median home value in Union is $199,100, 29% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $259,608, higher than the Census estimate. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $255,000 with homes selling in an average of 73 days. Homes sell for 99% of their list price. Monthly rent averages $847 (27% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 62.9% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 5,119 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1996. 21.2% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.8x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $199,100 |
| 29% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $259,608 |
| Redfin Median Sale | $255,000 |
| Median List Price | $265,000 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median Sale Price | $255,000 |
| Median List Price | $265,000 |
| $/Sq Ft | $172 |
| Homes Sold | 13 |
| Days on Market | 73 days |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 99.0% |
| Price Drops | 5.0% |
| Inventory | 40 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $847 |
| 27% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 21.2% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 62.9% |
| Owner-Occupied | 62.9% |
| Renter-Occupied | 37.1% |
| Housing Units | 5,119 |
| Median Year Built | 1996 |
Property Tax
In Union, 39.2% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 9.7% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.5% of residents. 31.7% have high blood pressure. 16.7% are current smokers. 19.5% report binge drinking. 27.9% are physically inactive. 27.1% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 18.9% experience frequent mental distress. 8.6% of residents lack health insurance.
Air Quality (Open-Meteo CAMS - 2026-05-24)
PM2.5
5.7
μg/m³
Fine particulate
PM10
6.5
μg/m³
Coarse particulate
NO₂
2.8
μg/m³
Nitrogen dioxide
SO₂
0.2
μg/m³
Sulphur dioxide
CO
152.0
μg/m³
Carbon monoxide
Health Metrics: Union vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 39.2% |
| 22% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 9.7% |
| Heart Disease | 5.5% |
| High Blood Pressure | 31.7% |
| Asthma | 10.8% |
| COPD | 7.0% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 2.9% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 16.7% |
| 19% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 19.5% |
| Physical Inactivity | 27.9% |
| Depression | 27.1% |
| Mental Distress | 18.9% |
| Physical Distress | 13.7% |
| Short Sleep | 36.4% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 91.4% |
| Uninsured | 8.6% |
| 0% below US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 76.2% |
| Dental Visits | 57.1% |
Food & Exercise
Union has a violent crime rate of 401 per 100,000 residents, 6% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 2,347 per 100,000, 20% above the U.S. average. Overall, Union receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Union vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 401.2/100K |
| 6% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 2,346.9/100K |
| 20% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Traffic Accidents | 89 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.6 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Union enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winters average 33°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 45.0 inches. The area receives 14.4 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 548 feet.
Temperature
33°F Jan (1°C)
79°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 56.9°F |
| 5% above US avg |
| January Average | 33°F (1°C) |
| July Average | 79°F (26°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 548 ft (167 m) |
| Area | 3.5 sq mi (9.2 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,382/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.4501°N, 91.0085°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | St Louis Lambert International (STL)
40 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
45.0"
18% above US avg
Wettest Month (Apr)
4.99"
Earthquake History
28 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.6 on Sep 19, 2024.
| Jun 7, 2011 |
18 km NNW of Potosi, Missouri |
M3.9 |
43 km |
| Aug 27, 1993 |
5 km SSE of Olympian Village, Missouri |
M3.3 |
64 km |
| Jul 8, 2003 |
1 km N of Leasburg, Missouri |
M2.9 |
46 km |
| May 18, 2006 |
9 km SSE of De Soto, Missouri |
M2.9 |
61 km |
| Feb 8, 2004 |
6 km SSW of Stoutsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
139 km |
| Apr 29, 2022 |
1 km SSW of Peerless Park, Missouri |
M2.8 |
45 km |
| Mar 28, 2024 |
1 km NNE of Germantown, Illinois |
M2.8 |
129 km |
| Jul 31, 1995 |
8 km SSW of Caledonia, Missouri |
M2.8 |
86 km |
| Sep 13, 1997 |
3 km SSE of Darmstadt, Illinois |
M2.8 |
115 km |
| May 5, 2008 |
3 km SSE of Fenton, Missouri |
M2.8 |
52 km |
| Aug 26, 1992 |
5 km W of Frohna, Missouri |
M2.8 |
147 km |
| Nov 5, 1996 |
11 km SW of Marquand, Missouri |
M2.7 |
137 km |
| Jul 22, 1998 |
12 km NE of Mine La Motte, Missouri |
M2.7 |
111 km |
| Nov 12, 1996 |
15 km SSE of Olympian Village, Missouri |
M2.7 |
73 km |
| Jun 16, 1993 |
2 km SE of Longtown, Missouri |
M2.7 |
141 km |
| Jul 15, 1990 |
7 km SW of Potosi, Missouri |
M2.7 |
65 km |
| Sep 5, 2015 |
5 km SE of High Ridge, Missouri |
M2.7 |
46 km |
| Nov 25, 2013 |
8 km NE of Bonne Terre, Missouri |
M2.6 |
70 km |
| Jun 11, 1996 |
2 km SSE of Perryville, Missouri |
M2.6 |
131 km |
| Mar 7, 2009 |
7 km S of Miramiguoa Park, Missouri |
M2.6 |
31 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
488 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 70 fatalities, 1,113 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 22, 2011 |
EF4 |
55 km |
0 |
| Apr 3, 1981 |
EF4 |
82 km |
0 |
| Jun 22, 1969 |
EF4 |
90 km |
4 |
| Jun 22, 1969 |
EF4 |
56 km |
2 |
| Dec 21, 1967 |
EF4 |
86 km |
3 |
| Jan 24, 1967 |
EF4 |
47 km |
3 |
| Feb 10, 1959 |
EF4 |
37 km |
21 |
| Feb 24, 1956 |
EF4 |
8 km |
6 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
19 km |
1 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
89 km |
6 |
| Oct 24, 2021 |
EF3 |
98 km |
0 |
| May 31, 2013 |
EF3 |
35 km |
0 |
| May 31, 2013 |
EF3 |
84 km |
0 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
90 km |
2 |
| Dec 31, 2010 |
EF3 |
47 km |
1 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
52 km |
0 |
| Mar 13, 2006 |
EF3 |
74 km |
0 |
| Mar 11, 2006 |
EF3 |
70 km |
0 |
| Jun 1, 1999 |
EF3 |
77 km |
0 |
| Nov 15, 1988 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: SMITH MILL HOLLOW (3,978 ac, 2022).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2022 |
SMITH MILL HOLLOW |
3,978 |
55 km |
| 2021 |
COUNCIL BLUFF |
3,035 |
82 km |
| 2024 |
COUNCIL BLUFF WEST RX |
2,846 |
82 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
2,751 |
74 km |
| 2019 |
UNNAMED |
2,688 |
54 km |
| 2010 |
COUNCIL BLUFF LAKE |
2,651 |
82 km |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
2,512 |
82 km |
| 2021 |
BEAR PAW |
2,080 |
71 km |
| 2024 |
BEAR PAW RX |
2,067 |
71 km |
| 2004 |
CICERO CREEK |
1,846 |
46 km |
| 2021 |
BERRYMAN BLOCK B AND C |
1,728 |
57 km |
| 2015 |
UNNAMED |
1,586 |
76 km |
| 2010 |
DELBRIDGE SOUTH |
1,574 |
75 km |
| 2000 |
UNNAMED |
1,552 |
96 km |
| 1999 |
UNNAMED |
1,483 |
95 km |
| 2024 |
HARMON SPRING RX |
1,330 |
52 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
1,285 |
52 km |
| 2013 |
UNNAMED |
1,196 |
70 km |
| 2022 |
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN |
1,155 |
83 km |
| 2021 |
BARNEY |
1,120 |
96 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
33°F (1°C) |
2.7 in |
Coldest |
| February |
37°F (3°C) |
2.5 in |
Driest |
| March |
47°F (8°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| April |
58°F (14°C) |
5.0 in |
Wettest |
| May |
67°F (19°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| June |
75°F (24°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| July |
79°F (26°C) |
4.7 in |
Warmest |
| August |
78°F (25°C) |
3.8 in |
|
| September |
69°F (21°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| October |
58°F (14°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| November |
46°F (8°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| December |
37°F (3°C) |
2.7 in |
|
Union has a seasonal temperature swing of 46°F / from 33°F in January to 79°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 45.0 inches, with April being the wettest month (5.0") and February the driest (2.5").
Average costs for common services in Union. 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 Union
What is the population of Union?
Union has a population of 12,560 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 1,382 people per square mile, spread across 3.5 square miles. The median age of residents is 33.9 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 49% female and 51% male.
Is Union expensive to live in?
Union 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 $71,760, 5% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $199,100 (29% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $847 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Union safe?
The violent crime rate in Union is 401 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 2,347 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Union receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Union?
Union enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winter temperatures average 33°F in January, while summers reach an average of 79°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 45.0 inches, with 14.4 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Union?
The unemployment rate in Union is 5.2%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average commute time is 25 minutes, and 9.0% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Union?
The median home value in Union is $199,100. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $259,608. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $255,000, with homes typically selling within 73 days. For renters, the median monthly rent is $847. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 62.9%.
How are the schools in Union?
Schools in Union score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 25.6% of adults in Union hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 91.6% have completed high school. 6.9% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Union?
The obesity rate in Union is 39.2% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 16.7% of adults are smokers. 27.9% are physically inactive. 27.1% of residents report depression. 8.6% lack health insurance.
What is transportation like in Union?
The average commute in Union is 25 minutes. 77% of workers drive alone to work, and 9.0% work from home.
What are the demographics of Union?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Union is 87.5% White, 2% Black or African American, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Asian. 97.6% of residents speak only English at home. 9.6% of the population are military veterans. 12.0% of residents have a disability. 91.4% have health insurance coverage.