Union Star, MO
Population 510 · Missouri
About Union Star, MO
Union Star is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 510 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,907 per year, which is 23% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.6 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 Union Star features a median home value of $84,500, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Union Star one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $925, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 239 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (129 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (67 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Union Star shows an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Union Star have an average one-way commute time of 83.5 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
17.5% of Union Star 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 1.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Union Star, MO
Compared to national averages, Union Star has a median household income of $57,907 (23% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,500, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $925 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Union Star's income is 5% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 44% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Union Star, MO?
Union Star offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $925/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,907) that falls below the national average. However, Union Star’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Union Star has a population of 510 with a median age of 26.6 years. Compare Union Star with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Union Star
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Melle | 510 | $103,750 | $407,100 | Compare |
| Smithton | 509 | $51,875 | $87,500 | Compare |
| West Alton | 511 | $128,438 | $156,300 | Compare |
| Matthews | 506 | $44,013 | $101,800 | Compare |
| Beverly Hills | 495 | $47,955 | $73,300 | Compare |
| Niangua | 495 | $36,667 | $87,500 | Compare |
| Ridgeway | 525 | $37,188 | $65,700 | Compare |
| Meadville | 493 | $70,000 | $110,200 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Union Star
What is the population of Union Star, MO?
The population of Union Star, MO is 510 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Union Star?
The median household income in Union Star, MO is $57,907 per year, which is 23% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Union Star?
The median home value in Union Star, MO is $84,500, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Union Star?
The median monthly rent in Union Star, MO is $925, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Union Star?
The unemployment rate in Union Star, MO is 2.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Union Star, MO a good place to live?
Union Star offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 510 and a median age of 26.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Union Star, MO?
17.5% of residents in Union Star 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 Star?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Union Star, MO: median home value is $84,500 (65% below national), median rent is $925/month, and median household income is $57,907. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Union Star?
The poverty rate in Union Star, MO is 8.0%, 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 Star, MO?
Union Star's population is 1.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.