Joplin, MO vs Maryland Heights, MO

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Joplin is 20.4% cheaper than Maryland Heights. With a cost index of 70 vs 88, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Joplin to Maryland Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Joplin is $889/month compared to $1,217/month in Maryland Heights — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Joplin is more affordable at $159,700 median vs $215,300.

Median household income in Joplin is $51,154 compared to $86,485 in Maryland Heights (-40.9%). While Maryland Heights 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 16.9% in Maryland Heights.