Cost of Living in Cardwell, MO

With a cost of living index of 59, Cardwell, MO is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 41% cheaper than the national average and 16% below the Missouri state average of 75. Cardwell is a small community of 846 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Cardwell's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $764 (42% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $44,700 (85% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Cardwell is $17,917, which is 76% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 51% of household income on rent. This is well above the 30% affordability threshold, indicating a significant housing cost burden for many residents. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.