Northwoods, MO
Population 3,654 · Missouri
About Northwoods, MO
Northwoods is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 3,654 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,787 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52.8 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 Northwoods features a median home value of $72,300, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Northwoods one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,104, 5% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,806 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (1,310 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (378 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Northwoods shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Northwoods have an average one-way commute time of 27.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.7% of Northwoods 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, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Northwoods, MO
Compared to national averages, Northwoods has a median household income of $40,787 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $72,300, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,104 is 5% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Northwoods's income is 33% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 52% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Northwoods, MO?
Northwoods offers affordable housing with a median home value of $72,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,104/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,787) that falls below the national average. However, Northwoods’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Northwoods has a population of 3,654 with a median age of 52.8 years. Compare Northwoods with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Northwoods
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moscow Mills | 3,647 | $68,451 | $186,900 | Compare |
| Frontenac | 3,669 | $225,813 | $1,004,500 | Compare |
| Palmyra | 3,620 | $69,211 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Whiteman AFB | 3,713 | $60,250 | $0 | Compare |
| El Dorado Springs | 3,545 | $31,982 | $83,700 | Compare |
| Malden | 3,818 | $38,786 | $88,900 | Compare |
| Hillsboro | 3,483 | $65,278 | $206,200 | Compare |
| New Haven | 3,389 | $69,701 | $187,600 | 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 Northwoods With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Northwoods
What is the population of Northwoods, MO?
The population of Northwoods, MO is 3,654 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 Northwoods?
The median household income in Northwoods, MO is $40,787 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Northwoods?
The median home value in Northwoods, MO is $72,300, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Northwoods?
The median monthly rent in Northwoods, MO is $1,104, which is 5% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Northwoods?
The unemployment rate in Northwoods, MO is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Northwoods, MO a good place to live?
Northwoods offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,654 and a median age of 52.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Northwoods, MO?
14.7% of residents in Northwoods 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 Northwoods?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Northwoods, MO: median home value is $72,300 (70% below national), median rent is $1,104/month, and median household income is $40,787. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Northwoods?
The poverty rate in Northwoods, MO is 24.4%, 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 Northwoods, MO?
Northwoods's population is 0.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 91.3% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.