Union, MO
Population 12,560 · Missouri
About Union, MO
Union is a mid-sized city located in Missouri with a population of 12,560 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,760 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.9 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 Union features a median home value of $199,100, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Union in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $847, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,180 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (3,012 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (1,779 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Union shows an unemployment rate of 5.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Union have an average one-way commute time of 24.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.6% of Union residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.3% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Union, MO
Compared to national averages, Union has a median household income of $71,760 (5% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $199,100, which is 19% below the national median. Monthly rent at $847 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Union's income is 18% above the state average of $61,047, and home values are 32% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Union, MO?
Union offers affordable housing with a median home value of $199,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $847/month, and a low poverty rate of 7.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,760) that falls below the national average. However, Union’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Union has a population of 12,560 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare Union with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Union
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fulton | 12,611 | $55,015 | $144,500 | Compare |
| Eureka | 12,371 | $108,947 | $352,200 | Compare |
| Branson | 12,760 | $54,961 | $237,900 | Compare |
| West Plains | 12,341 | $39,897 | $158,700 | Compare |
| Crestwood | 12,298 | $115,512 | $291,400 | Compare |
| Neosho | 12,857 | $55,159 | $148,600 | Compare |
| St. Ann | 12,865 | $52,059 | $118,600 | Compare |
| Jennings | 12,900 | $37,356 | $62,300 | 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 Union With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Union
What is the population of Union, MO?
The population of Union, MO is 12,560 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Union?
The median household income in Union, MO is $71,760 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Union?
The median home value in Union, MO is $199,100, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Union?
The median monthly rent in Union, MO is $847, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Union?
The unemployment rate in Union, MO is 5.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Union, MO a good place to live?
Union offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,560 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Union, MO?
25.6% of residents in Union 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 Union?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Union, MO: median home value is $199,100 (19% below national), median rent is $847/month, and median household income is $71,760. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Union?
The poverty rate in Union, MO is 7.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Union, MO?
Union's population is 1.3% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.