Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ava, MO
Considering a move to Ava, MO? With a friendly population of just under 3,000, Ava offers affordable living—median home prices around $122,000 and rents averaging $675. The city enjoys a reasonable commute time of about 18 minutes and a sunny climate, with 62% sunny days yearly. While crime rates are a bit higher than the national average, Ava stands out for its small-town charm, accessible schools, and proximity to outdoor recreation in the Ozarks.
Demographics - AVA, MO
Ava, Missouri is a small city with a population of nearly 2,900, characterized by a predominantly White community and a median age of 41. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a family-friendly atmosphere, with most residents speaking English at home. Its moderate population density allows for a close-knit, friendly environment that appeals to those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
2,894
Density:
835 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.3%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ava, MO?
Living in Ava is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average. Median home values are around $122,000 and average rents are $675, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Everyday expenses, including groceries and utilities, are also lower than in many other parts of the country.
Median House Value:
$122,000
Gross Rent:
$675
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,040
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.4
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
63.0
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
96.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Ava, MO a safe place to live?
Ava experiences higher-than-average property crime rates, with residents facing a 1 in 48 chance annually, while violent crime remains relatively low. While overall crime is above the national median, the city maintains a strong sense of community vigilance. Prospective residents should be mindful of property security but can generally expect a safe small-town atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,320
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Ava, MO year-round?
Ava enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 88°F and mild winters with lows averaging 22°F. The city receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year. This balanced climate makes Ava a pleasant place to live for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
42°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The typical household in Ava earns about $38,700 annually, with a per capita income of $18,900 and a poverty rate of 21.6%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commutes are short—averaging under 18 minutes. The community has a welcoming small-town feel, though incomes are modest and public transportation is rarely used.
Median Income:
$25,100
Household Income:
$38,700
Family Income:
$46,500
Per Capita Income:
$18,900
Income Male:
$31,400
Income Female:
$22,500
Poverty Rate:
21.6%
Non English Speakers:
2.4%
Rent:
$675
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
17.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.1%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ava, MO?
Ava is served by well-rated public schools covering elementary through high school, all located conveniently within the city. Student-to-teacher ratios are favorable, around 14:1, supporting a personalized learning environment. For higher education, Missouri State University is just 45 miles away in Springfield, offering ample opportunities for advanced study.

Public Schools
Name:
Ava Elementary School
Street:
507 NE 3rd St
Phone:
417-683-5450
Students:
530
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Name:
Ava Middle School
Street:
507 NE 3rd St
Phone:
417-683-1496
Students:
290
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Ava High School
Street:
507 NE 3rd St
Phone:
417-683-5747
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6

Colleges
Name:
Missouri State University
City:
Springfield
State:
MO
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
24,000
Healthcare
Ava offers access to local clinics and family medicine practices, such as Cox Health Center Ava and Mercy Clinic, though emergency services are limited in town. With about 1 physician per 1,000 residents and 85.5% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are met locally. For more specialized or emergency care, residents may need to travel to nearby cities.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Cox Health Center Ava
Address:
1303 W Washington Ave, Ava, MO 65608
Phone:
(417) 683-4189
Type:
Clinic & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Mercy Clinic Family Medicine - Ava
Address:
1104 Springfield Rd, Ava, MO 65608
Phone:
(417) 683-6085
Type:
Family Medicine
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.5%
Health Care Index:
56.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ava, MO?
Ava's housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $122,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $675. Over half of the residences are owner-occupied, and the area experiences a low foreclosure rate. Home values have seen modest appreciation, making it an inviting market for first-time buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$122,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$675
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Ava residents receive vehicle and driver services through the Missouri Department of Revenue, with the nearest main office located in Springfield. Essential DMV information, including licensing and registration, is available online or by phone. Access to DMV services is straightforward for newcomers and long-term residents.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing Division
Address:
149 Park Central Sq, Springfield, MO 65806
Phone:
573-526-3669
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.