East Prairie, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,902
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$34,637/yr
11.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,504
-1.1% year-over-year change

East Prairie population

How many people live in East Prairie

East Prairie is home to 2,902 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of East Prairie locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
2,902
-1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
1,423
Female
51%
1,479
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,423 49% -3.9%
Female 1,479 51% 2.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in East Prairie is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 17.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
17.7%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 524 18.1% -9.3%
15 to 24 513 17.7% 39.8%
25 to 44 650 22.4% -7.4%
45 to 64 652 22.5% -5.0%
Over 65 563 19.4% -5.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

There’s also a share of 7.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,902 100% -1.0%
Racial breakdown
White
91.2%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.7%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 2,646 91.2%
Black or African American 33 1.1%
Two or more races 223 7.7%

Households in East Prairie

A peek inside East Prairie households

East Prairie has 1,298 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.5% are families, while the remaining 45.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,298
-2.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
591
Family households
707
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 591 45.5% 27.9%
Family households 707 54.5% -19.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in East Prairie

The housing landscape of East Prairie

East Prairie's housing consists of 1,504 units, with 71.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,504
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,080 71.8%
2 units 260 17.3%
3 or 4 units 63 4.2%
5 to 9 units 15 1%
10 to 19 units 33 2.2%
Mobile home 53 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in East Prairie

In East Prairie, the median construction year is 1969. About 7.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 108 7.2% 28.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 224 14.9% 55.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 135 9% -10.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 304 20.2% -7.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 296 19.7% -11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 156 10.4% -38.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 137 9.1% 128.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 85 5.6% 51.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 59 3.9% -45.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

East Prairie occupancy rates

Out of the 1,298 occupied housing units in East Prairie, 47.5% are owner-occupied, while 52.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,298
-2.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
681
Owner occupied
617
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 681 52.5% -11.4%
Owner occupied 617 47.5% 8.6%
Unoccupied housing units
13.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

East Prairie housing costs

Housing costs in East Prairie come to a median of $555 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $750.

Median housing costs per month
$555/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in East Prairie
$750/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in East Prairie

East Prairie education at a glance

About 65.5% of the population in East Prairie went to high school, while 15.4% pursued college studies. Another 4% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 72 3.4% -32.7%
High school diploma 1,404 65.5% -9.8%
College diploma 329 15.4% 15.0%
Associate degree 85 4% 51.8%
Bachelor's degree 207 9.7% 31.0%
Graduate degree 46 2.2% 76.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in East Prairie

How much people earn in East Prairie

The average annual household income in East Prairie was $49,835 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +15.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $34,637, reflecting a +11.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in East Prairie
$49,835/year
15.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in East Prairie
$34,637/year
11.2% year-over-year change

East Prairie income by age

In East Prairie, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,400. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $32,179 overall. Overall, 79.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $51,400 N/A
45 - 64 $32,179 -4.3%
Over 65 $26,121 N/A
Above poverty level
2,263
Below poverty level
594
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,263 79.2% 12.8%
Below poverty level 594 20.8% -32.6%

Average renter income in East Prairie

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in East Prairie, their median household income was $23,417 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$23,417
Rent-to-income ratio
38.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in East Prairie

Workforce and job types in East Prairie

The job market in East Prairie is powered by 1,163 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 59.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 40.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.4% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 8.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,163
15.3% year-over-year change
White collar
689
Blue collar
474
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 689 59.2% 2.4%
Blue collar 474 40.8% 41.1%
Employer type
Self employees
12.4%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
8.5%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 144 12.4% 56.5%
Private companies 837 72% 9.1%
Governmental workers 99 8.5% -15.4%
Not for profit companies 83 7.1% 151.5%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-17.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in East Prairie stands at 3.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in East Prairie

How people get around in East Prairie

In East Prairie, the average commute time is 21 minutes.

Commute time
21 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,051 93.3% 27.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in East Prairie by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63845 5,261 2,178 $51,207 $65,788

Explore more communities

FAQs about East Prairie demographics 

What is the total population of East Prairie?

East Prairie has a total population of 2,902 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in East Prairie?

The gender ratio in East Prairie is as follows:
  • 49% males (1,423 residents)
  • 51% females (1,479 residents)

What is the median age in East Prairie?

The median age in East Prairie is 39.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in East Prairie?

The age distribution in East Prairie is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (524 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.7% (513 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (650 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (652 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.4% (563 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of East Prairie?

The racial and ethnic makeup of East Prairie is as follows:
  • White: 91.2% (2,646 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (33 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.7% (223 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in East Prairie are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in East Prairie.

How many housing units are there in East Prairie?

There are 1,504 housing units in East Prairie, reflecting a -1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in East Prairie and what is the average household size?

East Prairie has a total of 1,298 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in East Prairie?

East Prairie has a median household income of $34,637, representing a +11.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for East Prairie?

The employment rate is 96.8% in East Prairie, with a workforce of 1,163 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 59.2% (689 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 40.8% (474 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.4% (144 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (837 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.5% (99 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (83 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025