Imperial, MO
Population 5,617 · Missouri
About Imperial, MO
Imperial is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 5,617 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,949 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Imperial features a median home value of $221,900, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Imperial in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,255, 8% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,037 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (1,755 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (185 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Imperial shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 8.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Imperial have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.3% of Imperial 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 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Imperial, MO
Compared to national averages, Imperial has a median household income of $87,949 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $221,900, which is 9% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,255 is 8% above the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Imperial's income is 44% above the state average of $61,047, and home values are 47% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Imperial, MO?
Imperial offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,949, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $221,900, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 8.0%, better than the national average.
Imperial has a population of 5,617 with a median age of 37.5 years. Compare Imperial with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Imperial
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odessa | 5,589 | $85,592 | $209,600 | Compare |
| Trenton | 5,542 | $49,836 | $93,000 | Compare |
| Glasgow Village | 5,491 | $38,571 | $69,600 | Compare |
| Cottleville | 5,750 | $114,420 | $381,900 | Compare |
| Macon | 5,457 | $51,103 | $133,800 | Compare |
| Caruthersville | 5,426 | $35,903 | $118,700 | Compare |
| Waynesville | 5,422 | $75,179 | $204,100 | Compare |
| Peculiar | 5,815 | $96,250 | $252,400 | 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 Imperial With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Imperial
What is the population of Imperial, MO?
The population of Imperial, MO is 5,617 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Imperial?
The median household income in Imperial, MO is $87,949 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Imperial?
The median home value in Imperial, MO is $221,900, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Imperial?
The median monthly rent in Imperial, MO is $1,255, which is 8% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Imperial?
The unemployment rate in Imperial, MO is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Imperial, MO a good place to live?
Imperial offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,617 and a median age of 37.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Imperial, MO?
19.3% of residents in Imperial 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 Imperial?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Imperial, MO: median home value is $221,900 (9% below national), median rent is $1,255/month, and median household income is $87,949. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Imperial?
The poverty rate in Imperial, MO is 8.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Imperial, MO?
Imperial's population is 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.