Carthage, MO
Population 15,513 · Missouri
About Carthage, MO
Carthage is a mid-sized city in Missouri with a population of 15,513 residents. The median household income is $50,849 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Carthage is 31 years.
Housing in Carthage has a median home value of $133,500 and median monthly rent of $897. Of the 6,095 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,819 owner-occupied and 2,637 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carthage is 2.0% and the poverty rate is 33.0%. 23.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Carthage, MO
Compared to national averages, Carthage has a median household income of $50,849 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $133,500, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $897 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Carthage's income is 17% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 11% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Carthage, MO?
Carthage offers affordable housing with a median home value of $133,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $897/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 15.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,849) that falls below the national average. However, Carthage’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carthage has a population of 15,513 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Carthage with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Carthage
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson | 15,532 | $80,435 | $227,600 | Compare |
| Fort Leonard Wood | 15,317 | $68,629 | $0 | Compare |
| Overland | 15,762 | $57,755 | $121,500 | Compare |
| Lebanon | 15,157 | $42,157 | $152,200 | Compare |
| Grain Valley | 15,967 | $87,266 | $269,800 | Compare |
| Washington | 14,948 | $78,510 | $217,500 | Compare |
| Sikeston | 16,231 | $53,203 | $158,100 | Compare |
| Poplar Bluff | 16,243 | $42,035 | $109,700 | 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 Carthage
What is the population of Carthage, MO?
The population of Carthage, MO is 15,513 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carthage?
The median household income in Carthage, MO is $50,849 per year.
What is the median home value in Carthage?
The median home value in Carthage, MO is $133,500.
What is the average rent in Carthage?
The median monthly rent in Carthage, MO is $897.
What is the unemployment rate in Carthage?
The unemployment rate in Carthage, MO is 2.0%.