Is Moberly Safe, Pros and cons of living in Moberly
Is it Safe to Live in Moberly?
Moberly presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are notably higher than the national average in some categories. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Moberly is approximately 1 in 75 (according to NeighborhoodScout). Based on FBI crime data, Moberly is not considered one of the safest communities in America, with a crime rate higher than 71% of Missouri’s cities and towns (according to NeighborhoodScout).
However, other reports suggest a more nuanced view. One analysis indicates Moberly’s overall crime rate is 38% below the national average as of 2026, with violent crime rates also lower than the national average (according to DoorProfit). Residents face approximately a 1 in 379 chance of being a victim of violent crime annually and a 1 in 67 chance for property crime. Moberly generally receives a “B” grade for safety, suggesting it is a safe place to live, though safety can vary significantly by neighborhood (according to DoorProfit).
Violent Crime Rates
Violent crime in Moberly occurs at a rate higher than in most communities of all population sizes across America. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime, such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder, is about 1 in 318, equating to a rate of 3 per one thousand inhabitants (according to NeighborhoodScout). This rate is higher than the Missouri state average of 1 in 216 (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Property Crime Rates
Property crime in Moberly is also a concern, with a rate of 10 per one thousand population. This indicates an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime when compared to all other communities in America of all population sizes (according to NeighborhoodScout). Specifically, property crimes include motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary.
The Cost of Living in Moberly
Moberly offers a cost of living that is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living index in Moberly is 86, which is 14% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing, which is a major contributor to the lower overall cost.
Housing expenses in Moberly are notably lower than the national average. Housing costs are 41% below the national average (according to AreaVibes), and the median home price is considerably lower than the national median. This favorable housing market allows residents to allocate a more reasonable portion of their income to housing, enhancing financial flexibility.
Housing Costs
The housing market in Moberly is exceptionally affordable. The median home value in Moberly is $129,500, a stark contrast to the national median of $281,900 (according to Kurby AI). Similarly, the median rent is $821, which is lower than the national average of $1,163 (according to Kurby AI). This makes homeownership and renting in Moberly more accessible compared to many other areas in the country.
Average Salary and Income
The average annual salary in Moberly is approximately $49,586, which translates to about $23.84 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter). However, the median household income in Moberly is reported at $39,332 (according to Kurby AI), and another source indicates a median household income of $41,122 (according to Livability.com). These figures suggest a disparity between average salaries and median household incomes, which is common in many communities.
The Job Market in Moberly
Moberly’s job market is supported by a diverse range of major employers across various sectors. Key industries include manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail. These employers provide a stable economic base and offer employment opportunities for residents with different skill sets and professional backgrounds.
Major Employers
Significant employers in Moberly include Orscheln Industries, which is the largest employer in the city (according to the St. Louis Fed). Other key employers are found in manufacturing, such as JBS Foods, and in healthcare, like Moberly Regional Medical Center. Educational institutions like Moberly Area Community College and Central Christian College of the Bible also play a vital role in the local economy and employment landscape.
Climate in Moberly
Moberly experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with average temperatures varying throughout the year. Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly, with slightly wetter periods in the spring and early summer.
Temperatures and Precipitation
The average temperature in Moberly ranges from a low of 22°F in January to a high of 87°F in July (according to NOAA). The hot season typically lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures often exceeding 77°F. The cold season spans from late November to late February, with average daily high temperatures below 48°F. Moberly receives an average annual rainfall of about 43 inches, with the wettest month being May, and an average annual snowfall of 12 inches (according to Livability.com).
Education in Moberly
Moberly’s educational landscape includes public school districts and higher education institutions. The Moberly School District serves the K-12 population, and there are also private school options available. For post-secondary education, Moberly Area Community College and Central Christian College of the Bible are prominent institutions.
School Ratings
The Moberly School District generally receives a “C” overall grade from Niche. Moberly Senior High School has a rating of 3.54 out of 5, based on 125 reviews (according to Niche). Northeast High School has a slightly higher rating of 3.75 out of 5, with 20 reviews (according to Niche). While these ratings provide an overview, individual school experiences can vary.
Demographics of Moberly
Moberly is home to a population of approximately 13,526 residents, with a median age of 39.4 years (according to Census Dots and World Population Review). The majority of the population identifies as White, with smaller percentages of Black or African American, Multiracial, and Hispanic residents. The city has a higher male-to-female ratio and a significant portion of its population consists of U.S. citizens.
Population and Diversity
The racial composition of Moberly is predominantly White, accounting for about 82.6% of the population, followed by Black or African American residents at 8.3% (according to Census Dots). Multiracial individuals make up 6.0% of the population, with smaller percentages for Asian and Native American residents. The city’s diversity is lower than that of Missouri overall (according to Census Dots).
Age and Household Composition
The age distribution in Moberly shows that about 17.5% of the population are children under 15, and 17% are 65 or older (according to Point2Homes). Adults between the ages of 25 and 64 represent a significant portion of the population. Moberly has approximately 5,103 households, with an average of two members per household (according to Point2Homes).