Branson, MO
Population 12,760 · Missouri
About Branson, MO
Branson is a mid-sized city located in Missouri with a population of 12,760 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,961 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Branson features a median home value of $237,900, which is 3% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Branson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $999, 14% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,723 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (2,600 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (3,060 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Branson shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Branson have an average one-way commute time of 17.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
29.4% of Branson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 5.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Branson, MO
Compared to national averages, Branson has a median household income of $54,961 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $237,900, which is 3% below the national median. Monthly rent at $999 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Branson's income is 10% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 58% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Branson, MO?
Branson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $237,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $999/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,961) that falls below the national average. However, Branson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Branson has a population of 12,760 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Branson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Branson
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neosho | 12,857 | $55,159 | $148,600 | Compare |
| St. Ann | 12,865 | $52,059 | $118,600 | Compare |
| Jennings | 12,900 | $37,356 | $62,300 | Compare |
| Fulton | 12,611 | $55,015 | $144,500 | Compare |
| Union | 12,560 | $71,760 | $199,100 | Compare |
| Festus | 12,965 | $70,085 | $206,200 | Compare |
| Dardenne Prairie | 13,137 | $155,585 | $392,300 | Compare |
| Webb City | 13,139 | $61,502 | $156,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Missouri
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Branson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Branson
What is the population of Branson, MO?
The population of Branson, MO is 12,760 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Branson?
The median household income in Branson, MO is $54,961 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Branson?
The median home value in Branson, MO is $237,900, which is 3% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Branson?
The median monthly rent in Branson, MO is $999, which is 14% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Branson?
The unemployment rate in Branson, MO is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Branson, MO a good place to live?
Branson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,760 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Branson, MO?
29.4% of residents in Branson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Branson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Branson, MO: median home value is $237,900 (3% below national), median rent is $999/month, and median household income is $54,961. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Branson?
The poverty rate in Branson, MO is 19.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Branson, MO?
Branson's population is 4.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 4.0% two or more races. 5.0% of residents are foreign-born.