Median Income
$39,897
47% lower than US avg
Home Value
$158,700
44% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
423/100K
11% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
17.7%
47% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$762
34% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
38.5%
20% higher than US avg
Unemployment
2.5%
31% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
22.2%
79% higher than US avg
How West Plains Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population12,341
Median Age34.2 yrs
Density927/mi²
Male / Female47% / 54%
Largest GroupWhite 95%
Veterans8.1%
Economy
C+
Median Income$39,897
Per Capita$23,486
Unemployment2.5%
Poverty22.2%
Commute17 min
Housing
A
Home Value$158,700
Rent$762
Ownership48.2%
Zillow$222,396
Housing Units5,614
Rent Burden29.4%
Crime
F
Violent423/100K
Property5,772/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault326/100K
Burglary1,026/100K
Health
Obesity38.5%
Uninsured12.1%
Smoking24.0%
Depression29.1%
Heart Disease7.4%
Climate
Avg Temp56°F (13°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain44.5 in/yr
Sunny Days255/yr
Elevation1,007 ft (307 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+17.7%
High School+85.3%
Graduate+10.4%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute17 min
Broadband83.5%
EV Stations4
Is West Plains a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, West Plains receives an overall livability score of 2.7 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include an elevated poverty rate, a high uninsured rate, below-average incomes. West Plains has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in West Plains is $39,897, 47% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 2.5%. The poverty rate of 22.2% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 17 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in West Plains is $158,700, 44% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $762 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 4x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 423 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 5,772 per 100,000, 194% above the national average.
Education
17.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.3% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
West Plains enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F. Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. With 255 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 44.5 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
West Plains has a population of 12,341 with a density of 927 people per square mile, spread across 13.3 square miles. The median age is 34.2 years, 12% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 53.5% female and 46.5% male. The city is predominantly White (95.4%), with 1.6% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 97% of residents. 8.1% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 20.9% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 77.8% have health insurance coverage.
Population
34.2yrs
Median Age
12% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
West Plains vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
97.0%
24% above US avg
Spanish
3.0%
78% below US avg
Social Characteristics
West Plains vs U.S. Average
The median household income in West Plains is $39,897, which is 47% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $23,486 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 2.5% (below the 3.6% US average). 22.2% 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 17 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 3.6% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: West Plains vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $39,897 |
| 47% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $23,486 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 2.5% |
| 31% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 22.2% |
| 79% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 17.1 min |
| Drive Alone | 84.1% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 3.6% |
The median home value in West Plains is $158,700, 44% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $222,396, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 90.1% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $762 (34% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 48.2% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 5,614 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1978. 29.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 4x.
Home Values
| Census Median | $158,700 |
| 44% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $222,396 |
| Median List Price | $244,900 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median List Price | $244,900 |
| $/Sq Ft | $113 |
| Homes Sold | 21 |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 90.1% |
| Price Drops | 20.6% |
| Inventory | 63 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $762 |
| 34% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 29.4% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 48.2% |
| Owner-Occupied | 48.2% |
| Renter-Occupied | 51.8% |
| Housing Units | 5,614 |
| Median Year Built | 1978 |
Property Tax
In West Plains, 38.5% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 12.9% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.4% of residents, above the national average. 36.5% have high blood pressure. 24.0% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 15.8% report binge drinking. 34.9% are physically inactive, above the national average. 29.1% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 22.0% experience frequent mental distress. 12.1% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Air Quality (Open-Meteo CAMS — 2026-05-24)
PM2.5
7.8
μg/m³
Fine particulate
PM10
8.6
μg/m³
Coarse particulate
NO₂
3.4
μg/m³
Nitrogen dioxide
SO₂
0.2
μg/m³
Sulphur dioxide
CO
139.0
μg/m³
Carbon monoxide
Health Metrics: West Plains vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 38.5% |
| 20% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 12.9% |
| Heart Disease | 7.4% |
| High Blood Pressure | 36.5% |
| Asthma | 11.8% |
| COPD | 11.1% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 4.1% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 24.0% |
| 71% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 15.8% |
| Physical Inactivity | 34.9% |
| Depression | 29.1% |
| Mental Distress | 22.0% |
| Physical Distress | 17.8% |
| Short Sleep | 40.7% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 77.8% |
| Uninsured | 12.1% |
| 41% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 75.9% |
| Dental Visits | 48.7% |
Food & Exercise
West Plains has a violent crime rate of 423 per 100,000 residents, 11% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 325.6 per 100,000, robbery at 16.3, rape at 81.4. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 5,772 per 100,000, 194% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 4,038, burglary at 1,026, vehicle theft at 708 per 100,000 residents. Overall, West Plains receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: West Plains vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 423.3/100K |
| 11% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 81.4/100K |
| Robbery | 16.3/100K |
| Assault | 325.6/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 5,771.7/100K |
| 194% above US avg |
| Burglary | 1,025.7/100K |
| Theft | 4,037.8/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 708.2/100K |
| Arson | 0.0/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Traffic Accidents | 28 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 3.5 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
West Plains enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. The area gets 255 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 44.5 inches. The area receives 2.4 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 1,007 feet.
Temperature
32°F Jan (-0°C)
78°F Jul (25°C)
| Annual Average | 56.0°F |
| 4% above US avg |
| January Average | 32°F (-0°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (25°C) |
| Sunny Days | 255 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 1,007 ft (307 m) |
| Area | 13.3 sq mi (34.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 927/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.7281°N, 91.8524°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Sharp County Regional (CKK)
36 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
44.5"
17% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.65"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
84 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.9. Most recent: M2.9 on Jun 27, 2025.
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
83 km |
| Jul 7, 1991 |
11 km ENE of Brandsville, Missouri |
M3.9 |
26 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
73 km |
| Jun 4, 2014 |
3 km ESE of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
133 km |
| Sep 12, 2019 |
13 km N of Big Flat, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
83 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
24 km |
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
109 km |
| Sep 22, 2011 |
6 km E of Grandin, Missouri |
M3.6 |
99 km |
| Aug 20, 1994 |
4 km NE of Black Rock, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
96 km |
| Jun 27, 2000 |
15 km WSW of Marshall, Arkansas |
M3.4 |
129 km |
| Jan 20, 2010 |
4 km WNW of Lynn, Arkansas |
M3.3 |
93 km |
| Aug 21, 2022 |
4 km SSW of Imboden, Arkansas |
M3.1 |
85 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
10 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.1 |
82 km |
| Mar 18, 1990 |
9 km W of Alton, Missouri |
M3.0 |
31 km |
| Jun 27, 2025 |
12 km WSW of Grandin, Missouri |
M2.9 |
81 km |
| May 21, 2012 |
6 km SW of Williamsville, Missouri |
M2.9 |
114 km |
| Jan 26, 2009 |
1 km NNE of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
109 km |
| May 21, 2013 |
Arkansas |
M2.9 |
100 km |
| Feb 9, 2004 |
1 km SW of Reyno, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
106 km |
| Jun 16, 2017 |
6 km N of Bergman, Arkansas |
M2.9 |
109 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
346 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 33 fatalities, 641 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 24, 2002 |
EF4 |
80 km |
0 |
| Dec 24, 1982 |
EF4 |
64 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF4 |
37 km |
2 |
| May 21, 1957 |
EF4 |
66 km |
7 |
| Mar 25, 1954 |
EF4 |
74 km |
2 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
33 km |
0 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
96 km |
1 |
| May 25, 2011 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
| May 8, 2009 |
EF3 |
18 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 2007 |
EF3 |
31 km |
1 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
97 km |
2 |
| Mar 5, 1996 |
EF3 |
82 km |
0 |
| Nov 18, 1985 |
EF3 |
95 km |
3 |
| Oct 18, 1984 |
EF3 |
30 km |
1 |
| Dec 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
64 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
41 km |
2 |
| Apr 11, 1979 |
EF3 |
40 km |
0 |
| Dec 14, 1971 |
EF3 |
85 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1970 |
EF3 |
40 km |
0 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF3 |
61 km |
3 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: HANDY (12,818 ac, 2012).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2012 |
HANDY |
12,818 |
65 km |
| 2007 |
DEAD HORSE |
10,389 |
87 km |
| 2004 |
LOWER WILD |
10,034 |
87 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
9,641 |
69 km |
| 2022 |
CEDAR BLUFF |
9,617 |
65 km |
| 2013 |
LOWER WILDERNESS RX |
8,699 |
87 km |
| 2020 |
BIG BARREN CREEK |
8,150 |
65 km |
| 2022 |
STEGALL MOUNTAIN |
6,979 |
71 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
6,931 |
87 km |
| 2021 |
SYL BIRMINGHAM |
6,803 |
84 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
6,686 |
86 km |
| 2010 |
BRUSHY/CLAYTON |
6,401 |
86 km |
| 2020 |
BIG CREEK |
6,399 |
86 km |
| 2015 |
15 STEGAL MOUNTAIN |
5,112 |
70 km |
| 2021 |
ROCK PILE |
5,067 |
27 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
4,873 |
85 km |
| 2011 |
MINNINGHAW |
4,792 |
93 km |
| 2024 |
BRIDGES RX |
4,781 |
72 km |
| 2009 |
STEGAL MTN. COMPLEX |
4,717 |
70 km |
| 2017 |
UNNAMED |
4,602 |
93 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
32°F (-0°C) |
2.4 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
38°F (3°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| March |
47°F (8°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| April |
56°F (13°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| May |
64°F (18°C) |
4.7 in |
Wettest |
| June |
72°F (22°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| July |
78°F (25°C) |
3.2 in |
Warmest |
| August |
76°F (25°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| September |
69°F (21°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| October |
58°F (14°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| November |
46°F (8°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| December |
36°F (2°C) |
3.9 in |
|
West Plains has a seasonal temperature swing of 46°F / from 32°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 44.5 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.7") and January the driest (2.4").
Average costs for common services in West Plains. 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 West Plains
What is the population of West Plains?
West Plains has a population of 12,341 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 927 people per square mile, spread across 13.3 square miles. The median age of residents is 34.2 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 53.5% female and 46.5% male.
Is West Plains expensive to live in?
West Plains 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 $39,897, 47% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $158,700 (44% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $762 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is West Plains safe?
The violent crime rate in West Plains is 423 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 5,772 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, West Plains receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in West Plains?
West Plains enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 56°F (13°C). Winter temperatures average 32°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. The area receives 255 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 44.5 inches, with 2.4 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in West Plains?
The job market in West Plains is very strong, with unemployment at just 2.5% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average commute time is 17 minutes, and 3.6% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in West Plains?
The median home value in West Plains is $158,700. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $222,396. For renters, the median monthly rent is $762. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 48.2%.
How are the schools in West Plains?
Schools in West Plains score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 17.7% of adults in West Plains hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.3% have completed high school. 10.4% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is West Plains?
The obesity rate in West Plains is 38.5% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 24.0% of adults are smokers. 34.9% are physically inactive. 29.1% of residents report depression. 12.1% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in West Plains?
The average commute in West Plains is 17 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 84.1% of workers drive alone to work, and 3.6% work from home.
What are the demographics of West Plains?
The racial and ethnic makeup of West Plains is 95.4% White, 0.7% Black or African American, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino. 97% of residents speak only English at home. 8.1% of the population are military veterans. 20.9% of residents have a disability. 77.8% have health insurance coverage.
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