Pierce City, MO
Population 1,472 · Missouri
About Pierce City, MO
Pierce City is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 1,472 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,000 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.6 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 Pierce City features a median home value of $112,000, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Pierce City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $779, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 567 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (321 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (179 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Pierce City shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Pierce City have an average one-way commute time of 25.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.0% of Pierce City 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 2.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 5.0% Asian residents, with 5.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Pierce City, MO
Compared to national averages, Pierce City has a median household income of $45,000 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,000, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $779 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Pierce City's income is 26% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 26% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Pierce City, MO?
Pierce City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $112,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $779/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,000) that falls below the national average. However, Pierce City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Pierce City has a population of 1,472 with a median age of 31.6 years. Compare Pierce City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Pierce City
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bel-Nor | 1,472 | $106,875 | $204,100 | Compare |
| Belle | 1,476 | $55,341 | $141,100 | Compare |
| Lakeshire | 1,478 | $61,346 | $260,300 | Compare |
| Tarkio | 1,478 | $60,250 | $86,900 | Compare |
| Lone Jack | 1,487 | $116,328 | $307,400 | Compare |
| Steele | 1,449 | $33,750 | $115,900 | Compare |
| Shell Knob | 1,445 | $51,852 | $304,700 | Compare |
| Wardsville | 1,505 | $117,500 | $309,900 | 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 Pierce City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Pierce City
What is the population of Pierce City, MO?
The population of Pierce City, MO is 1,472 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 Pierce City?
The median household income in Pierce City, MO is $45,000 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Pierce City?
The median home value in Pierce City, MO is $112,000, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Pierce City?
The median monthly rent in Pierce City, MO is $779, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Pierce City?
The unemployment rate in Pierce City, MO is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Pierce City, MO a good place to live?
Pierce City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,472 and a median age of 31.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Pierce City, MO?
6.0% of residents in Pierce City 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 Pierce City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Pierce City, MO: median home value is $112,000 (54% below national), median rent is $779/month, and median household income is $45,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Pierce City?
The poverty rate in Pierce City, MO is 29.1%, 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 Pierce City, MO?
Pierce City's population is 2.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 5.0% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 5.8% of residents are foreign-born.