Center, MO
Population 469 · Missouri
About Center, MO
Center is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 469 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,750 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.9 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Center features a median home value of $82,600, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Center one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $350, 70% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 206 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (143 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (28 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Center shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Center have an average one-way commute time of 21.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.8% of Center residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Center Ranks in Missouri
Cost of Living in Center, MO
Compared to national averages, Center has a median household income of $62,750 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $82,600, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $350 is 70% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Center's income is 3% above the state average of $61,047, and home values are 45% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Center, MO?
Center offers affordable housing with a median home value of $82,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $350/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,750) that falls below the national average. However, Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Center has a population of 469 with a median age of 42.9 years. Compare Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Center
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair Play | 470 | $37,125 | $73,800 | Compare |
| Hornersville | 470 | $43,750 | $59,200 | Compare |
| Alma | 466 | $72,656 | $134,900 | Compare |
| Crystal Lake Park | 472 | $142,292 | $588,400 | Compare |
| Camden Point | 474 | $87,917 | $222,400 | Compare |
| Urbana | 474 | $36,563 | $80,000 | Compare |
| Holt | 463 | $75,060 | $176,900 | Compare |
| Greenville | 462 | $39,450 | $126,700 | 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.
Compare Center With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Center
What is the population of Center, MO?
The population of Center, MO is 469 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Center?
The median household income in Center, MO is $62,750 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Center?
The median home value in Center, MO is $82,600, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Center?
The median monthly rent in Center, MO is $350, which is 70% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Center?
The unemployment rate in Center, MO is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Center, MO a good place to live?
Center offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 469 and a median age of 42.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Center, MO?
12.8% of residents in Center 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 Center?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Center, MO: median home value is $82,600 (66% below national), median rent is $350/month, and median household income is $62,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Center?
The poverty rate in Center, MO is 15.3%, 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 Center, MO?
Center's population is 3.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.