Carthage, MO vs Caruthersville, MO

Carthage, MO and Caruthersville, MO have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.4% difference in their overall index. Carthage scores 68 while Caruthersville scores 65 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Carthage is $897/month compared to $771/month in Caruthersville — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Caruthersville is more affordable at $118,700 median vs $133,500.

Median household income in Carthage is $50,849 compared to $35,903 in Caruthersville (+41.6%). While Carthage is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Carthage spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 25.8% in Caruthersville.