Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake Ozark, MO
Considering a move to Lake Ozark, MO? This scenic lakeside community of about 2,000 enjoys affordable living, with median home prices around $271,000 and average rents near $1,100. Residents benefit from low commute times (under 20 minutes) and a relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle, though property crime rates are higher than national averages. The area offers a mild climate with 60% sunny days, access to major healthcare at Lake Regional Hospital, and public schools served by the School of the Osage district. Lake Ozark is a great fit for those seeking small-town charm, lake recreation, and budget-friendly housing.
Demographics - Lake Ozark, MO
Demographics - Lake Ozark, MO
Lake Ozark is a small community of around 2,077 residents, with a median age of 50.1, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White (over 93%), and neighborhood density is moderate at 480 people per square mile. A relatively low percentage of non-English speakers (3.8%) makes the city accessible for most newcomers.
Population:
2,077
Density:
480 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.1
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.4%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake Ozark, MO?
Lake Ozark offers a cost of living below the national average, with a cost of living index of 89.1. Median home values are affordable at $271,000 and average rents are about $1,110 per month, making it attractive for both buyers and renters. Everyday expenses like utilities and groceries remain manageable, contributing to the city's budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$271,000
Gross Rent:
$1,110
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,440
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$500
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.1
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
77.5
Utilities:
96.8
Transportation:
85.9
Health Care:
97.6
Miscellaneous:
93.4
Crime
Is Lake Ozark, MO a safe place to live?
While violent crime rates in Lake Ozark are moderate, property crime is more prevalent, with residents facing a 1 in 32 chance of experiencing property-related incidents. The overall crime index suggests higher-than-average property crime compared to national norms. Prospective residents should be mindful of security measures in this otherwise peaceful community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
325
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,180
Crime Index:
3,505
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 308
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 32
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake Ozark, MO year-round?
Lake Ozark experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 89°F and mild winters with lows around 22°F. The city enjoys approximately 60% sunny days each year and receives about 42.5 inches of annual rainfall. This climate supports outdoor activities and a vibrant lakeside lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Household incomes in Lake Ozark average around $54,400, with a poverty rate of 13.2%. Most residents have completed high school, and the community boasts a low unemployment rate of 4.7%. Commutes are short, averaging just under 20 minutes, and public transportation usage is very limited.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$54,400
Family Income:
$70,000
Per Capita Income:
$32,300
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$1,110
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.7%
Bachelors or More:
25.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lake Ozark, MO?
Public education in Lake Ozark is provided by the School of the Osage district, offering quality instruction with favorable student-teacher ratios around 15:1. Nearby, State Fair Community College in Osage Beach gives residents access to higher education just three miles from the city. While there are no private schools within Lake Ozark, public school options are well-regarded for a town of its size.
Public Schools
Name:
Osage High School
Street:
636 Hwy 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone:
573-348-0115
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Osage Middle School
Street:
635 Hwy 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone:
573-348-2110
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Colleges
Name:
State Fair Community College - Lake of the Ozarks
City:
Osage Beach
State:
MO
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
800
Healthcare
Lake Ozark residents have access to major medical services at Lake Regional Hospital, located nearby in Osage Beach. The area has 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and nearly 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are comprehensive for a community of this size, supporting both routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lake Regional Hospital
Address:
54 Hospital Dr, Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone:
(573) 348-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.0%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake Ozark, MO?
The housing market in Lake Ozark is affordable, with a median home price of $271,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,110. Homeownership is common, as 61.9% of residents own their homes, and the vacancy rate is moderate at 7.8%. Recent home appreciation of 4.2% indicates steady, sustainable growth in local property values.
Median Home Price:
$271,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,110
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver services for Lake Ozark residents are managed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, conveniently located in Jefferson City. The department provides all standard DMV services, with additional information available on the state website. Residents can contact the DMV by phone or visit in person for licensing, registration, and title needs.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle & Driver License
Address:
301 West High Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone:
573-751-4509
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.