Cooper County Public RecordsMissouri

Cooper County, MO, reports a generally low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 175 crimes, including 15 violent offenses and 160 property crimes. The property crime rate is about 1,375 per 100,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is 129 per 100,000—both below Missouri’s state averages. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and transparency, regularly disseminating crime statistical reports online to foster public awareness and safety.

Cooper County, MO has several public schools, including one high school (Boonville High) and a few elementary and middle schools, serving around 1,400 students in total. The high school graduation rate is approximately 91%, while about 20% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. School accountability scores average around 78%. Educational programs include vocational training and advanced placement courses. The county has a low crime rate in schools, with zero reported major incidents in 2023, and offers adult education opportunities such as GED classes and technical skill workshops.

As of 2022, Cooper County, MO, had an employment rate of approximately 59%. The largest employment sectors are Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), Manufacturing (17%), and Educational Services (11%). Major occupation types include Production (14%), Office & Administrative Support (13%), and Sales (10%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. Key employment locations are Boonville and surrounding areas, with around 32% of residents commuting outside the county for work, mostly to Columbia and Sedalia.

Cooper County, MO, has a homeownership rate of about 66%, with median home values near $162,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $760 monthly. The housing market has seen moderate appreciation, with property values rising around 5% annually since 2021. Housing types range from single-family homes in Boonville to farmhouses and small-town rentals. Popular neighborhoods include Boonville’s Historic District and Prairie Home. Property taxes average 0.85% of home value, keeping the area affordable for homeowners and renters alike.

Cooper County, Missouri, had 12,345 registered voters as of 2023. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, with recent turnout reaching 58% in the 2022 general election. Major parties are Republican and Democrat; the 2020 presidential race saw Republicans win 70% to Democrats’ 28%. Polling locations include Boonville High School and Pilot Grove Community Center. Issues on ballots often involve local taxes and school boards. The Cooper County Clerk administers elections, ensuring compliance and accessibility. Election information is regularly updated at coopercountymo.gov.

As of the 2020 Census, Cooper County, Missouri, had a population of approximately 17,103. The median age was 38.7 years. Gender distribution was nearly even, with about 50.3% male and 49.7% female. Racially, the county was predominantly White (86.3%), with Black or African American residents comprising 8.1%, and smaller percentages for Native American (0.4%), Asian (0.6%), and individuals of two or more races (3.8%). Hispanic or Latino origin accounted for 2.5% of the population.