Wardell, MO
Population 455 · Missouri
About Wardell, MO
Wardell is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 455 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,500 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.5 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 Wardell features a median home value of $51,300, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wardell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $850, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 194 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (156 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (26 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wardell shows an unemployment rate of 1.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 37.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wardell have an average one-way commute time of 22.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.3% of Wardell 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, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wardell, MO
Compared to national averages, Wardell has a median household income of $48,500 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $51,300, which is 79% below the national median. Monthly rent at $850 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Wardell's income is 21% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 66% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Wardell, MO?
Wardell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $51,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $850/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.2%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,500) that falls below the national average. However, Wardell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wardell has a population of 455 with a median age of 45.5 years. Compare Wardell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Wardell
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eminence | 456 | $30,000 | $94,300 | Compare |
| Novinger | 454 | $44,063 | $52,300 | Compare |
| Otterville | 454 | $48,281 | $114,000 | Compare |
| Branson West | 453 | $38,750 | $197,200 | Compare |
| Crystal Lakes | 460 | $66,964 | $156,900 | Compare |
| Greenville | 462 | $39,450 | $126,700 | Compare |
| Holt | 463 | $75,060 | $176,900 | Compare |
| Clarksville | 446 | $62,045 | $92,500 | 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 Wardell
What is the population of Wardell, MO?
The population of Wardell, MO is 455 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 Wardell?
The median household income in Wardell, MO is $48,500 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wardell?
The median home value in Wardell, MO is $51,300, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wardell?
The median monthly rent in Wardell, MO is $850, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wardell?
The unemployment rate in Wardell, MO is 1.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Wardell, MO a good place to live?
Wardell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 455 and a median age of 45.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Wardell, MO?
16.3% of residents in Wardell 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 Wardell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wardell, MO: median home value is $51,300 (79% below national), median rent is $850/month, and median household income is $48,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wardell?
The poverty rate in Wardell, MO is 37.6%, 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 Wardell, MO?
Wardell's population is 0.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.