Liberal, MO
Population 776 · Missouri
About Liberal, MO
Liberal is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 776 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,333 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Liberal features a median home value of $76,700, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Liberal one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $680, 42% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 429 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (215 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (97 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Liberal shows an unemployment rate of 12.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Liberal have an average one-way commute time of 25.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.7% of Liberal 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, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Liberal, MO
Compared to national averages, Liberal has a median household income of $53,333 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $76,700, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $680 is 42% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Liberal's income is 13% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 49% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Liberal, MO?
Liberal offers affordable housing with a median home value of $76,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $680/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,333) that falls below the national average. However, Liberal’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Liberal has a population of 776 with a median age of 40.9 years. Compare Liberal with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Liberal
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Belle | 777 | $35,074 | $81,500 | Compare |
| Lake Timberline | 773 | $26,838 | $134,700 | Compare |
| Stewartsville | 781 | $73,906 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Velda Village Hills | 771 | $45,313 | $50,700 | Compare |
| Wood Heights | 783 | $85,417 | $187,500 | Compare |
| New Florence | 784 | $48,125 | $92,800 | Compare |
| Airport Drive | 785 | $64,375 | $210,000 | Compare |
| Jasper | 785 | $48,750 | $110,900 | 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.
Compare Liberal With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Liberal
What is the population of Liberal, MO?
The population of Liberal, MO is 776 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 Liberal?
The median household income in Liberal, MO is $53,333 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Liberal?
The median home value in Liberal, MO is $76,700, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Liberal?
The median monthly rent in Liberal, MO is $680, which is 42% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Liberal?
The unemployment rate in Liberal, MO is 12.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Liberal, MO a good place to live?
Liberal offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 776 and a median age of 40.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Liberal, MO?
19.7% of residents in Liberal 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 Liberal?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Liberal, MO: median home value is $76,700 (69% below national), median rent is $680/month, and median household income is $53,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Liberal?
The poverty rate in Liberal, MO is 14.5%, 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 Liberal, MO?
Liberal's population is 0.6% White, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.