Tarkio, MO
Population 1,478 · Missouri
About Tarkio, MO
Tarkio is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 1,478 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,250 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.3 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 Tarkio features a median home value of $86,900, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Tarkio one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $608, 48% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 778 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (461 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (197 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tarkio shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Tarkio have an average one-way commute time of 22.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.6% of Tarkio 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 1.7% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tarkio, MO
Compared to national averages, Tarkio has a median household income of $60,250 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $86,900, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $608 is 48% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Tarkio's income is 1% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 42% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Tarkio, MO?
Tarkio offers affordable housing with a median home value of $86,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $608/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,250) that falls below the national average. However, Tarkio’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tarkio has a population of 1,478 with a median age of 47.3 years. Compare Tarkio with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Tarkio
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeshire | 1,478 | $61,346 | $260,300 | Compare |
| Belle | 1,476 | $55,341 | $141,100 | Compare |
| Bel-Nor | 1,472 | $106,875 | $204,100 | Compare |
| Pierce City | 1,472 | $45,000 | $112,000 | Compare |
| Lone Jack | 1,487 | $116,328 | $307,400 | Compare |
| Wardsville | 1,505 | $117,500 | $309,900 | Compare |
| Steele | 1,449 | $33,750 | $115,900 | Compare |
| Shell Knob | 1,445 | $51,852 | $304,700 | 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 Tarkio With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tarkio
What is the population of Tarkio, MO?
The population of Tarkio, MO is 1,478 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 Tarkio?
The median household income in Tarkio, MO is $60,250 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tarkio?
The median home value in Tarkio, MO is $86,900, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Tarkio?
The median monthly rent in Tarkio, MO is $608, which is 48% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tarkio?
The unemployment rate in Tarkio, MO is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tarkio, MO a good place to live?
Tarkio offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,478 and a median age of 47.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Tarkio, MO?
20.6% of residents in Tarkio 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 Tarkio?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tarkio, MO: median home value is $86,900 (65% below national), median rent is $608/month, and median household income is $60,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Tarkio?
The poverty rate in Tarkio, 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 Tarkio, MO?
Tarkio's population is 1.7% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.