Let the numbers do the talking.
Joplin, MO vs Saint Louis, MO
Joplin, MO vs Saint Louis, MO: What the data shows
Joplin, MO is in Joplin, MO while Saint Louis, MO is in Saint Louis, MO — both in the same state. On home prices, Joplin, MO is the more affordable option at $160,000 median — $154,500 less than Saint Louis, MO's $314,500. WYLT rates Joplin, MO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Saint Louis, MO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Joplin, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Saint Louis, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Joplin, MO has Low flood risk and Saint Louis, MO has Low flood risk.
Saint Louis, MO is the more walkable neighborhood. Joplin, MO scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Saint Louis, MO's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Saint Louis, MO has the higher school rating — Joplin, MO rates N/A and Saint Louis, MO rates 6.4/10.
| Category | Joplin, MO | Saint Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $160K ✓ Lower price | $315K |
| Median Rent | $873 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $52K | $98K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 8/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 24/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 179 min | 18 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Retirees seeking low cost of livingRemote workers who need quietFamilies wanting inexpensive homes | young professionals who commutemid‑income familiesremote workers |
Bottom line
Joplin and Benton Park share the "Think twice" verdict, but for different reasons. If you prioritize affordability and a quiet, rural lifestyle, Joplin might be worth considering, especially if you have a flexible work situation. If you need a neighborhood with better job opportunities, amenities, and safety, Benton Park - despite its drawbacks - might be a better fit for young professionals or families.
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