Joplin, MO vs Kirksville, MO

Joplin, MO and Kirksville, MO have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.1% difference in their overall index. Joplin scores 70 while Kirksville scores 68 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 Joplin is $889/month compared to $787/month in Kirksville — a 13% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Kirksville is more affordable at $145,300 median vs $159,700.

Median household income in Joplin is $51,154 compared to $48,063 in Kirksville (+6.4%). While Joplin is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Joplin spend roughly 20.9% of their income on rent, more than the 19.6% in Kirksville.