Joplin, MO vs Manchester, MO

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Joplin is 26.9% cheaper than Manchester. With a cost index of 70 vs 96, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Joplin to Manchester should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Joplin is $889/month compared to $1,248/month in Manchester — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Joplin is more affordable at $159,700 median vs $298,400.

Median household income in Joplin is $51,154 compared to $92,839 in Manchester (-44.9%). While Manchester 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 16.1% in Manchester.