County Crime & Safety

Jasper County, MO, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to state averages, with a recent annual crime rate of about 32 incidents per 1,000 residents. Violent crime accounts for around 3.9 per 1,000, while property crime is higher at 28.1 per 1,000. The county’s law enforcement actively reports offenses to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, ensuring public safety data transparency. Compared to national rates, Jasper County’s property crime is above average, though violent crime remains relatively steady. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to help reduce local crime statistics.

Demographics

As of 2022, Jasper County, MO, has a population of approximately 123,800. The median age is around 37. The gender split is roughly 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the population is about 84% White, 2.6% Black, 1.6% Asian, and 8.1% identifying as Hispanic or Latino, with the remainder comprising other or multiracial groups. The county’s demographics reflect a predominantly White population with a growing Hispanic community.

Elections

Jasper County, Missouri had 79,451 registered voters as of November 2022. The county conducts municipal, primary, and general elections, with major contests often between Republican and Democratic candidates—GOP candidates typically win, such as the 77% to 21% split in the 2020 presidential election. Polling locations include 47 precincts, mainly in Carthage and Joplin. Issues voted on recently include school bonds and local tax initiatives. Elections are overseen by the Jasper County Clerk’s office. Political party affiliation is majority Republican, with 66% of new registrations indicating GOP preference in recent years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Jasper County, MO, has over 35 public schools, including 10 high schools. Approximately 87% of adults hold at least a high school diploma, while about 17% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Average public school test scores are around 46% in math and 49% in reading proficiency. Adult education opportunities are provided through Crowder College and Missouri Southern State University. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Specialized educational programs cover STEM, arts, and career technical education, supporting diverse learning needs across the county.

As of early 2024, Jasper County, MO has an employment rate of approximately 59%, with key industries including manufacturing (23%), healthcare and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (13%). The leading occupation types are production (14%), office and administrative support (12%), and sales (10%). Around 82% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 20 minutes, primarily to Joplin, the county’s largest employment center. The labor force is largely local, with 84% living and working within the county.

Jasper County, MO, has a homeownership rate of around 65%, with median home values about $145,000 in 2023 and median gross rents near $830. The housing market has seen steady appreciation, with property values rising nearly 8% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, duplexes, and some apartments, especially in cities like Joplin and Carthage. Notable neighborhoods are Roanoke and Wildwood Estates. Property tax rates average 1.02%, making homeownership relatively affordable. Renters make up 35% of households, reflecting diverse options within urban and rural settings.