Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Plains, MO
Thinking of moving to West Plains, MO? With a friendly population of about 12,200, West Plains offers affordable living—median home prices are just $143,000 and average 2-bedroom rents are around $750. Residents enjoy short commutes (about 16 minutes), a reasonable cost of living, and great access to nature with a sunny Ozarks climate. Crime rates are higher than average, but you'll find strong community healthcare and educational options including Missouri State University–West Plains. West Plains blends small-town charm with practical amenities for a comfortable lifestyle.
Demographics - West Plains, MO
Demographics - West Plains, MO
West Plains is home to approximately 12,200 residents, with a median age of 37.6, reflecting a balanced mix of families and individuals. The city has a predominantly White population, with about 4.6% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, contributing to a welcoming small-town environment.
Population:
12,192
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.6
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.5%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Plains, MO?
Living in West Plains is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $143,000 and typical monthly rents around $750. Overall, the city's cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for affordable housing, groceries, and utilities.
Median House Value:
$143,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
93.8
Housing:
62.1
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
85.4
Health Care:
91.0
Miscellaneous:
92.7
Crime
Is West Plains, MO a safe place to live?
West Plains experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a property crime risk of 1 in 45 and violent crime at 1 in 263. While safety is a consideration, many residents find peace of mind in the city's strong community ties and awareness.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
380
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,200
Crime Index:
2,580
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 263
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in West Plains, MO year-round?
West Plains enjoys a classic Ozarks climate, featuring mild winters with lows around 23°F, warm summers reaching up to 89°F, and about 62% sunny days annually. With over 47 inches of rainfall each year, the area offers lush greenery and vibrant seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
44°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community in West Plains has a median household income of $35,700 and a family income near $49,000, though a quarter of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors commute just 16 minutes to work, and a strong majority have at least a high school education.
Median Income:
$26,600
Household Income:
$35,700
Family Income:
$48,900
Per Capita Income:
$20,800
Income Male:
$29,800
Income Female:
$22,600
Poverty Rate:
24.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.6%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
15.6 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.9%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in West Plains, MO?
West Plains offers quality educational opportunities, including public schools with reasonable student-teacher ratios and private school options. Higher education is readily available through Missouri State University–West Plains and South Central Career Center, both located within the city.

Public Schools
Name:
West Plains High School
Street:
602 E Olden St
Phone:
417-256-6150
Students:
1,080
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
West Plains Elementary School
Street:
1136 Allen St
Phone:
417-256-6158
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.4

Private Schools
Name:
West Plains Christian Clinic School
Street:
1405 8th St
Phone:
417-257-7778
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Missouri State University–West Plains
City:
West Plains
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
South Central Career Center
City:
West Plains
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
350
Healthcare
Healthcare access in West Plains is robust, highlighted by Ozarks Healthcare and a physician-to-resident ratio of 2.5 per 1,000 people. Over 90% of residents have health insurance, ensuring comprehensive coverage for most families.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ozarks Healthcare
Address:
1100 Kentucky Ave, West Plains, MO 65775
Phone:
(417) 256-9111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.7%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Plains, MO?
The housing market in West Plains is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $143,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $750. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% in the past year, reflecting steady demand and a favorable environment for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$143,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services in West Plains are provided by the Missouri Department of Revenue at a convenient local office, offering vehicle and driver licensing for residents. Essential information and services are easily accessible online and by phone.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing
Address:
149 Park Central Sq, West Plains, MO 65775
Phone:
(417) 256-3951
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.