Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rolla, MO
Thinking of moving to Rolla, MO? With a population of just over 20,500, Rolla offers affordable living, with median home prices around $191,000 and average rents at $860. Enjoy a short average commute of just 15 minutes, access to strong local healthcare, and educational opportunities including the renowned Missouri S&T. While property crime rates are above average, Rolla’s youthful community, low cost of living, and mild climate make it an attractive choice for students, families, and professionals alike.
Demographics - Rolla, MO
Rolla is a youthful and diverse city with a population of just over 20,500 and a median age of 27.2, partly due to its university presence. The community is predominantly White, but also includes Asian, Black, and other ethnic groups, with 8.1% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The city's population density and balanced gender ratio create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
20,515
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
27.2
Gender Ratio:
109 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.2%
Black:
3.3%
Asian:
6.5%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rolla, MO?
Rolla boasts a cost of living index well below the national average, with median home values around $191,000 and average rents at $860. Residents benefit from affordable housing and moderate utility costs, making it an appealing choice for both renters and homeowners. State taxes remain reasonable, further enhancing Rolla’s reputation for budget-friendly living.
Median House Value:
$191,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$450
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.3
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
64.2
Utilities:
97.4
Transportation:
89.3
Health Care:
94.6
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Rolla, MO a safe place to live?
Rolla experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 34 chance of property crime, while violent crime is less common at 329 incidents per 100,000 people. Those considering a move should remain vigilant but can take comfort in the relatively lower rate of violent offenses. Community awareness and safety initiatives are important for those settling in the area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
329
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,913
Crime Index:
3,242
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 304
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Rolla, MO year-round?
Rolla enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows in the low 20s and warm summers reaching highs near 88°F. The city receives about 44.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 57% of the year. This balanced climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
43°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Residents of Rolla typically have a median household income of $44,900, with a poverty rate of 22.3%. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a short 15.6 minutes. The community is diverse and engaged, making it easy to connect and build local relationships.
Median Income:
$22,500
Household Income:
$44,900
Family Income:
$63,400
Per Capita Income:
$25,500
Income Male:
$34,200
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
22.3%
Non English Speakers:
8.1%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
15.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
35.8%
Education
How are the schools in Rolla, MO?
Rolla is home to quality educational options, including public schools like Rolla Senior High and Rolla Middle School, as well as private and higher education through the renowned Missouri University of Science and Technology. The city's schools feature reasonable student-teacher ratios and serve a diverse student body. Families benefit from a strong emphasis on education at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Rolla Senior High School
Street:
900 Bulldog Run
Phone:
573-458-0140
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Rolla Middle School
Street:
1111 Soest Rd
Phone:
573-458-0120
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Rolla Seventh-day Adventist School
Street:
801 Highway O
Phone:
573-364-4547
Students:
40
Colleges
Name:
Missouri University of Science and Technology
City:
Rolla
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,200
Healthcare
Rolla offers strong healthcare access with facilities like Phelps Health providing comprehensive medical services, and there are 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 90% of locals have health insurance, ensuring most people can access care when needed. The city's healthcare index reflects reliable and accessible services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Phelps Health
Address:
1000 W 10th St, Rolla, MO 65401
Phone:
(573) 364-8899
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rolla, MO?
The Rolla housing market is affordable and active, with a median home price of $191,000 and average rents at $860 for a two-bedroom apartment. Home appreciation has been healthy at 7.2% over the past year, and the homeowner occupancy rate is just under 44%. Renters benefit from a relatively low vacancy rate, indicating a stable market for both buyers and tenants.
Median Home Price:
$191,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
43.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access motor vehicle and driver licensing services through the Missouri Department of Revenue office conveniently located on Kingshighway in Rolla. The DMV provides comprehensive support for licensing, registration, and more. Information and online resources are also available through the state website for added convenience.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing
Address:
1039 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401
Phone:
(573) 364-3612
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.