Fordland, MO
Population 681 · Missouri
About Fordland, MO
Fordland is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 681 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,167 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Fordland features a median home value of $119,600, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Fordland one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $719, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 299 total housing units, 58% are owner-occupied (151 units) and 42% are renter-occupied (111 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fordland shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Fordland have an average one-way commute time of 26.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.8% of Fordland 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, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 1.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fordland, MO
Compared to national averages, Fordland has a median household income of $49,167 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,600, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $719 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Fordland's income is 19% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 21% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Fordland, MO?
Fordland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $119,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $719/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,167) that falls below the national average. However, Fordland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fordland has a population of 681 with a median age of 35.3 years. Compare Fordland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Fordland
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norborne | 682 | $64,750 | $83,000 | Compare |
| Rockaway Beach | 682 | $56,563 | $130,000 | Compare |
| Hardin | 683 | $75,606 | $96,700 | Compare |
| Hermitage | 683 | $22,813 | $103,100 | Compare |
| Pleasant Hope | 679 | $61,607 | $142,500 | Compare |
| Fairfax | 685 | $54,107 | $91,500 | Compare |
| Twin Oaks | 685 | $117,713 | $290,000 | Compare |
| Parkway | 673 | $43,672 | $164,200 | 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 Fordland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fordland
What is the population of Fordland, MO?
The population of Fordland, MO is 681 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 Fordland?
The median household income in Fordland, MO is $49,167 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fordland?
The median home value in Fordland, MO is $119,600, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fordland?
The median monthly rent in Fordland, MO is $719, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fordland?
The unemployment rate in Fordland, MO is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fordland, MO a good place to live?
Fordland offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 681 and a median age of 35.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Fordland, MO?
5.8% of residents in Fordland 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 Fordland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fordland, MO: median home value is $119,600 (51% below national), median rent is $719/month, and median household income is $49,167. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Fordland?
The poverty rate in Fordland, MO is 20.0%, 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 Fordland, MO?
Fordland's population is 0.0% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.3% of residents are foreign-born.