West Plains, MO
Population 12,341 · Missouri
About West Plains, MO
West Plains is a mid-sized city in Missouri with a population of 12,341 residents. The median household income is $39,897 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in West Plains is 34.2 years.
Housing in West Plains has a median home value of $158,700 and median monthly rent of $762. Of the 5,571 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 2,389 owner-occupied and 2,571 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in West Plains is 4.5% and the poverty rate is 31.0%. 17.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in West Plains, MO
Compared to national averages, West Plains has a median household income of $39,897 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $158,700, which is 35% below the national median. Monthly rent at $762 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, West Plains's income is 35% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 5% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in West Plains, MO?
West Plains offers affordable housing with a median home value of $158,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $762/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($39,897) that falls below the national average. However, West Plains’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Plains has a population of 12,341 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare West Plains with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near West Plains
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eureka | 12,371 | $108,947 | $352,200 | Compare |
| Crestwood | 12,298 | $115,512 | $291,400 | Compare |
| Union | 12,560 | $71,760 | $199,100 | Compare |
| Fulton | 12,611 | $55,015 | $144,500 | Compare |
| Branson | 12,760 | $54,961 | $237,900 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about West Plains
What is the population of West Plains, MO?
The population of West Plains, MO is 12,341 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in West Plains?
The median household income in West Plains, MO is $39,897 per year.
What is the median home value in West Plains?
The median home value in West Plains, MO is $158,700.
What is the average rent in West Plains?
The median monthly rent in West Plains, MO is $762.
What is the unemployment rate in West Plains?
The unemployment rate in West Plains, MO is 4.5%.