Let the numbers do the talking.
Joplin, MO vs St. Louis, MO
Joplin, MO vs St. Louis, MO: What the data shows
Joplin, MO is in Joplin, MO while St. Louis, MO is in St. Louis, MO — both in the same state. On home prices, Joplin, MO is the more affordable option at $160,000 median — $74,700 less than St. Louis, MO's $234,700. WYLT rates Joplin, MO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and St. Louis, MO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Joplin, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. St. Louis, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Joplin, MO has Low flood risk and St. Louis, MO has Low flood risk.
St. Louis, MO is the more walkable neighborhood. Joplin, MO scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus St. Louis, MO's 60/100 (somewhat walkable).
| Category | Joplin, MO | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $160K ✓ Lower price | $235K |
| Median Rent | $873 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $52K | $86K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 53/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 179 min | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | N/A |
| Best for | Retirees seeking low cost of livingRemote workers who need quietFamilies wanting inexpensive homes | young professionalsrenterswalkers |
Bottom line
If you're a retiree or a remote worker seeking a low-cost, quiet environment, Joplin might be worth considering. However, if you value proximity to amenities, good job opportunities, or a more urban lifestyle, then St. Louis is a better fit. Ultimately, St. Louis is the better choice for most people, especially young professionals and renters who prioritize location and amenities over other factors.
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