Cost of Living in Bolivar, MO
Population 10,996 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Bolivar run well below national norms — a median of $44,603 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $189,000). Around 21% of residents live below the federal poverty line, a rate that tends to correlate with the income and housing figures above.
Bolivar is about 30 miles north of Springfield, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 14% higher than Springfield's $165,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Bolivar
The median home value in Bolivar is $188,700 — 38% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $833/month, 37% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $44,603/year is 40% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.4%, below the national average of 4.8%. Missouri's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Bolivar has a cost of living index of 62 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 38% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bolivar, MO?
Bolivar has a cost index of 62 (100 = national average). It is 38% below the national average.
What is average rent in Bolivar, MO?
The median gross rent in Bolivar is $833 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Bolivar?
The median home value in Bolivar is $188,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Bolivar?
The median household income in Bolivar is $44,603 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Bolivar, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Bolivar is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Bolivar, MO affordable?
Yes, Bolivar is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 62 — about 38% below the US national average of 100.
Bolivar at a Glance
- Population
- 10,996
- Median Income
- $44,603
- Home Value
- $188,700
- Median Rent
- $833/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs