Cost of Living in Branson, MO
Population 12,760 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Branson sits on the smaller end of the Missouri city distribution. That scale shapes the housing market, the labor pool, and the services available to residents in ways the data below makes visible.
Geographically, Branson is about 40 miles south of Springfield, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 44% higher than Springfield's $165,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Branson
The median home value in Branson is $237,900 — 22% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $999/month, 24% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $54,961/year is 26% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.8%, above 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, Branson has a cost of living index of 77 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 23% 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
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Branson, MO?
Branson has a cost index of 77 (100 = national average). It is 23% below the national average.
What is average rent in Branson, MO?
The median gross rent in Branson is $999 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Branson?
The median home value in Branson is $237,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Branson?
The median household income in Branson is $54,961 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Branson, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Branson is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Branson, MO affordable?
Yes, Branson is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 77 — about 23% below the US national average of 100.
Branson at a Glance
- Population
- 12,760
- Median Income
- $54,961
- Home Value
- $237,900
- Median Rent
- $999/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
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