Cape Girardeau, MO
Population 40,047 · Missouri
About Cape Girardeau, MO
Cape Girardeau is a mid-sized city in Missouri with a population of 40,047 residents. The median household income is $54,870 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Cape Girardeau is 34.2 years.
Housing in Cape Girardeau has a median home value of $186,100 and median monthly rent of $855. Of the 18,590 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 8,619 owner-occupied and 7,902 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Cape Girardeau is 3.4% and the poverty rate is 20.7%. 36.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.8 minutes.
How Cape Girardeau Ranks in Missouri
Cost of Living in Cape Girardeau, MO
Compared to national averages, Cape Girardeau has a median household income of $54,870 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $186,100, which is 24% below the national median. Monthly rent at $855 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Cape Girardeau's income is 10% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 23% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Cape Girardeau, MO?
Cape Girardeau offers affordable housing with a median home value of $186,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $855/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 36.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 15.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,870) that falls below the national average. However, Cape Girardeau’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cape Girardeau has a population of 40,047 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Cape Girardeau with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Cape Girardeau
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson City | 42,565 | $67,205 | $208,000 | Compare |
| Wildwood | 35,168 | $157,750 | $472,800 | Compare |
| Oakville | 35,166 | $103,125 | $292,500 | Compare |
| University City | 34,655 | $76,466 | $285,100 | Compare |
| Wentzville | 45,734 | $111,409 | $302,700 | Compare |
| Ballwin | 30,835 | $121,170 | $353,400 | Compare |
| Chesterfield | 49,591 | $133,380 | $458,000 | Compare |
| Liberty | 30,446 | $95,425 | $267,900 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Girardeau
What is the population of Cape Girardeau, MO?
The population of Cape Girardeau, MO is 40,047 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Cape Girardeau?
The median household income in Cape Girardeau, MO is $54,870 per year.
What is the median home value in Cape Girardeau?
The median home value in Cape Girardeau, MO is $186,100.
What is the average rent in Cape Girardeau?
The median monthly rent in Cape Girardeau, MO is $855.
What is the unemployment rate in Cape Girardeau?
The unemployment rate in Cape Girardeau, MO is 3.4%.