Malden, MO
Population 3,818 · Missouri
About Malden, MO
Malden is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 3,818 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,786 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Malden features a median home value of $88,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Malden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $702, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,936 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (801 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (753 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Malden shows an unemployment rate of 10.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Malden have an average one-way commute time of 24.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.4% of Malden 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 4.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Malden, MO
Compared to national averages, Malden has a median household income of $38,786 (48% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $88,900, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $702 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Malden's income is 36% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 41% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Malden, MO?
Malden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $88,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $702/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,786) that falls below the national average. However, Malden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Malden has a population of 3,818 with a median age of 38.6 years. Compare Malden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Malden
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. James | 3,922 | $50,644 | $117,200 | Compare |
| Whiteman AFB | 3,713 | $60,250 | $0 | Compare |
| Woodson Terrace | 3,935 | $49,650 | $100,600 | Compare |
| Frontenac | 3,669 | $225,813 | $1,004,500 | Compare |
| Northwoods | 3,654 | $40,787 | $72,300 | Compare |
| Moscow Mills | 3,647 | $68,451 | $186,900 | Compare |
| Palmyra | 3,620 | $69,211 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Camdenton | 4,017 | $44,800 | $171,600 | 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 Malden With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Malden
What is the population of Malden, MO?
The population of Malden, MO is 3,818 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 Malden?
The median household income in Malden, MO is $38,786 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Malden?
The median home value in Malden, MO is $88,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Malden?
The median monthly rent in Malden, MO is $702, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Malden?
The unemployment rate in Malden, MO is 10.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Malden, MO a good place to live?
Malden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,818 and a median age of 38.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Malden, MO?
8.4% of residents in Malden 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 Malden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Malden, MO: median home value is $88,900 (64% below national), median rent is $702/month, and median household income is $38,786. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Malden?
The poverty rate in Malden, MO is 24.0%, 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 Malden, MO?
Malden's population is 4.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 13.8% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.