Cost of Living in Union, MO
Population 12,560 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Buyers in Union can reasonably expect a home to cost less than three years of household income — $199,000 against $71,760 in typical earnings — a ratio that has collapsed to 5:1 or worse in much of the country.
Located 45 miles west of St. Louis, Union falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 8% higher than St. Louis' $185,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Union
The median home value in Union is $199,100 — 35% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $847/month, 36% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $71,760/year is 4% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.2%, 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, Union has a cost of living index of 65 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 35% 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 Union, MO?
Union has a cost index of 65 (100 = national average). It is 35% below the national average.
What is average rent in Union, MO?
The median gross rent in Union is $847 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Union?
The median home value in Union is $199,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Union?
The median household income in Union is $71,760 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Union, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Union is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Union, MO affordable?
Yes, Union is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 65 — about 35% below the US national average of 100.
Union at a Glance
- Population
- 12,560
- Median Income
- $71,760
- Home Value
- $199,100
- Median Rent
- $847/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.2%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
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