Essex, MO
Population 373 · Missouri
About Essex, MO
Essex is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 373 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,854 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.8 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 Essex features a median home value of $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Essex one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $625, 46% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 259 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (125 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (42 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Essex shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Essex have an average one-way commute time of 20.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
4.4% of Essex 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 0.0% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Essex, MO
Compared to national averages, Essex has a median household income of $63,854 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $115,600, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $625 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Essex's income is 5% above the state average of $61,047, and home values are 23% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Essex, MO?
Essex offers affordable housing with a median home value of $115,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $625/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,854) that falls below the national average. However, Essex’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Essex has a population of 373 with a median age of 44.8 years. Compare Essex with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
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Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Essex
What is the population of Essex, MO?
The population of Essex, MO is 373 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 Essex?
The median household income in Essex, MO is $63,854 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Essex?
The median home value in Essex, MO is $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Essex?
The median monthly rent in Essex, MO is $625, which is 46% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Essex?
The unemployment rate in Essex, MO is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Essex, MO a good place to live?
Essex offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 373 and a median age of 44.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Essex, MO?
4.4% of residents in Essex 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 Essex?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Essex, MO: median home value is $115,600 (53% below national), median rent is $625/month, and median household income is $63,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Essex?
The poverty rate in Essex, MO is 17.3%, 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 Essex, MO?
Essex's population is 0.0% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.