Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Centralia, MO
Considering a move to Centralia, MO? This friendly town of 4,695 residents offers small-town living with affordable housing—median home prices are around $172,500 and rents average just $740. Centralia features a short average commute (about 24 minutes), low violent crime, and a strong sense of community. Public schools are well-rated, and nearby Columbia provides access to major hospitals and higher education. Enjoy four seasons, over half the days sunny, and a cost of living well below the national average.
Demographics - Centralia, MO
Demographics - Centralia, MO
Centralia is a welcoming small town of approximately 4,700 residents, with a median age of 36.8 and a population density that suggests a close-knit community. The city is predominantly White, with a small but present diversity, and most residents speak English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and family-friendly atmosphere make it attractive for a variety of households.
Population:
4,695
Density:
1,190 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.1%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Centralia, MO?
Centralia offers an affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living index significantly below the national average. Homeowners benefit from median house values around $172,500 and average rents near $740, making housing costs especially appealing. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation remain budget-friendly for most residents.
Median House Value:
$172,500
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.4
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
67.5
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
89.5
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
89.8
Crime
Is Centralia, MO a safe place to live?
Centralia is considered a safe community, with a violent crime rate of just 168 incidents per 100,000 people and a low chance of being affected by serious offenses. Property crimes are more common but still manageable, offering peace of mind for families and individuals alike. Residents enjoy a sense of security typical of small towns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
168
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,488
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 595
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Centralia, MO year-round?
Centralia experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows in the 20s and warm summers reaching up to 88°F. The area receives ample rainfall—about 41 inches annually—and enjoys sunshine on more than half of its days. This climate supports outdoor activities year-round and a vibrant seasonal landscape.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Local households in Centralia typically earn around $57,200, with a modest poverty rate and a low unemployment figure of 3.1%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute is under 24 minutes, contributing to a comfortable, community-focused lifestyle. The area is known for its neighborly spirit, making it easy to feel at home.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$57,200
Family Income:
$66,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$40,200
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
10.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.7%
Education
How are the schools in Centralia, MO?
Centralia offers quality public education, with well-rated schools like Centralia High School and Chance Elementary providing favorable student-to-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is easily accessible with the University of Missouri just 22 miles away in Columbia. This supports lifelong learning and educational advancement for residents.
Public Schools
Name:
Centralia High School
Street:
849 S Jefferson St
Phone:
573-682-3508
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
Chance Elementary School
Street:
400 W Rollins St
Phone:
573-682-2014
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Colleges
Name:
University of Missouri - Columbia
City:
Columbia
State:
MO
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
31,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare through major hospitals in nearby Columbia, including Boone Hospital Center and University of Missouri Health Care. Centralia boasts a high health insurance coverage rate of over 90% and a solid ratio of physicians per capita. This ensures comprehensive medical support for individuals and families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Boone Hospital Center
Address:
1600 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201
Phone:
(573) 815-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
University of Missouri Health Care
Address:
1 Hospital Dr, Columbia, MO 65212
Phone:
(573) 882-4141
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.3%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Centralia, MO?
Centralia's housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $172,500 and owner-occupied homes making up nearly 69% of the market. Rental options are available, with average rates for a two-bedroom at $740 and a healthy vacancy rate. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates indicate a stable, accessible real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$172,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
The Missouri Department of Revenue handles vehicle and driver licensing needs for Centralia residents, with its main office in Jefferson City. Services and resources are easily accessible through their website or by phone. Newcomers can expect straightforward support for all DMV-related matters.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing Division
Address:
301 W High St, Jefferson City, MO 65101
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.