Charleston, MO
Population 4,565 · Missouri
About Charleston, MO
Charleston is a small community in Missouri with a population of 4,565 residents. The median household income is $35,139 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Charleston is 42.9 years.
Housing in Charleston has a median home value of $107,700 and median monthly rent of $734. Of the 1,477 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 667 owner-occupied and 647 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Charleston is 5.3% and the poverty rate is 31.4%. 10.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Charleston, MO
Compared to national averages, Charleston has a median household income of $35,139 (53% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,700, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $734 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Charleston's income is 42% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 29% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Charleston, MO?
Charleston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $107,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $734/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($35,139) that falls below the national average. However, Charleston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Charleston has a population of 4,565 with a median age of 42.9 years. Compare Charleston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Charleston
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holts Summit | 4,572 | $81,927 | $184,400 | Compare |
| Butler | 4,594 | $36,276 | $124,100 | Compare |
| Mount Vernon | 4,532 | $49,153 | $175,000 | Compare |
| Lexington | 4,602 | $70,134 | $153,300 | Compare |
| California | 4,523 | $60,506 | $123,700 | Compare |
| Hollister | 4,608 | $57,778 | $154,900 | Compare |
| Centralia | 4,615 | $51,868 | $165,600 | Compare |
| Rogersville | 4,496 | $51,375 | $205,900 | 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 Charleston
What is the population of Charleston, MO?
The population of Charleston, MO is 4,565 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Charleston?
The median household income in Charleston, MO is $35,139 per year.
What is the median home value in Charleston?
The median home value in Charleston, MO is $107,700.
What is the average rent in Charleston?
The median monthly rent in Charleston, MO is $734.
What is the unemployment rate in Charleston?
The unemployment rate in Charleston, MO is 5.3%.