Is Bonne Terre Safe, Pros and cons of living in Bonne Terre

Bonne Terre, Missouri, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and accessible living, making it a potential destination for those seeking a quieter pace of life. Nestled in St. Francois County, this community has a rich history deeply intertwined with lead mining, which has shaped its character and development over centuries. The town’s name itself, meaning “good earth” in French, hints at the natural resources that first drew settlers to the area.

The community is characterized by its close-knit atmosphere, where neighbors often know each other, and local events foster a sense of belonging. This small-town feel contributes to a lifestyle that many find appealing, especially when contrasted with the hustle and bustle of larger metropolitan areas. Bonne Terre provides a setting where residents can enjoy a more relaxed existence, with a focus on community and a generally affordable cost of living.

Is it Safe to Live in Bonne Terre?

Safety in Bonne Terre presents a mixed picture, with some indicators suggesting higher crime rates than national averages, while others point to specific areas being safer. The overall crime rate has been noted as considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America. This means the chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Bonne Terre is approximately 1 in 100 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Bonne Terre is not considered one of the safest communities in America, relative to Missouri, its crime rate is higher than 60% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

However, a more recent assessment indicates a crime safety grade of B+ as of 2026, with the overall crime rate being 40% below the national average. In this assessment, Bonne Terre is safer than most cities and has a chance of becoming a victim of violent crime at 1 in 388 per year, which is 32% lower than the national average. Property crime also shows a slight decrease, with a 1 in 56 chance per year, which is 2% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). CrimeGrade.org indicates that the violent crime rate is 4.474 per 1,000 residents, and residents generally consider the north part of the city to be the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of violent crime compared to the southeast neighborhoods.

Housing and Cost of Living

Bonne Terre offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living in Bonne Terre is approximately 3% lower than the U.S. national average and considerably lower than Missouri’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). Housing costs are a major contributor to this affordability, with prices being 15.1% lower than the national average (as reported by Salary.com).

The median home value in Bonne Terre is notably lower than the national median. For instance, one report indicates a median home value of $163,414 (as reported by Livability.com), while another source cites $121,100 (as reported by Kurby AI). Redfin reported the median sale price of a home in Bonne Terre was $168,000 in March 2026, a decrease of 13.2% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin). Renting is also relatively affordable, with the average rent for all property types in Bonne Terre being $1,075 per month (as reported by Zillow).

Housing Costs

The housing market in Bonne Terre is characterized by its affordability, with median home values significantly below national figures. As of March 2026, the median sale price of a home was $168,000, showing a year-over-year decrease (as reported by Redfin). This trend suggests a buyer’s market, offering opportunities for those looking to purchase property. The median home value has been reported as $163,414 (as reported by Livability.com), and other sources indicate figures around $121,100 (as reported by Kurby AI) and $139,407 (as reported by FastExpert).

Rental prices also reflect the town’s affordability. The average rent in Bonne Terre is approximately $1,075 per month (as reported by Zillow), which is 46.25% lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow). Houses are generally the most affordable rental option, with an average rent of $1,200 per month, while apartments can be more expensive, averaging $1,305 per month (as reported by Trulia). For those seeking a median rent, figures around $641 per month for gross rent have been cited (as reported by Point2Homes).

Cost of Living Factors

Beyond housing, other cost of living expenses in Bonne Terre are also generally lower than the national average. Food expenses are approximately 0.3% below average, and energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are about 9.6% lower (as reported by Salary.com). These combined factors contribute to a total monthly expense for a single person estimated at $2,208 and for a family of four at $4,930, positioning Bonne Terre as one of America’s less expensive cities (as reported by Salary.com).

The median household income in Bonne Terre is reported to be around $39,312 (as reported by Livability.com) or $34,409 (as reported by Kurby AI). While these figures are lower than the national average, the significantly lower cost of living helps to balance this economic aspect. The rent-to-income ratio, at 39.5%, indicates a substantial portion of earnings goes towards housing expenses for renters (as reported by Point2Homes).

Job Market and Economy

Bonne Terre’s economy is influenced by its historical ties to mining, though it now encompasses a broader range of employment opportunities. The city has seen a decline in employment in recent years, with a reported decrease of 8.62% from 2023 to 2024, leading to 1.85k employees (as reported by Data USA). The most common employment sectors for residents include Health Care & Social Assistance, Construction, and Manufacturing.

The average salary in Bonne Terre is estimated to be around $50,129 per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, many active job markets offer salaries at or below this average, with the 25th percentile at $33.6K and the 75th percentile at $61.1K (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Major employers in the area include large retail chains like Walmart and Dollar General, as well as the United States Postal Service and various local businesses (as reported by Indeed.com).

Major Employers

Several key employers contribute to the job market in Bonne Terre and the surrounding St. Francois County. National retailers such as Walmart and Dollar General are significant employers, offering a range of positions in the retail sector (as reported by Indeed.com). The United States Postal Service also provides employment opportunities within the community.

Other notable employers include local businesses and service providers, such as Dairy Queen, Walgreens, AT&T, Domino’s, Aramark, and Casey’s (as reported by Indeed.com). For those seeking employment in specialized fields, Unitec Career Center and Autocenters Service are also listed as businesses in the area (as reported by Kompass). Companies like Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance and First State Community Bank also operate within the broader region.

Unemployment and Salaries

The unemployment rate in Bonne Terre is reported at 3.2%, which is notably lower than the national average of 5.2% (as reported by Census Reporter). This suggests a relatively stable job market for those actively seeking employment. The average salary in Bonne Terre is approximately $50,129 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

However, salary ranges can vary significantly by profession. For example, a food service worker earns an average of $18.07 per hour (as reported by Indeed.com), while a server can expect to make around $16.40 per hour plus tips (as reported by Indeed.com). The most popular jobs in Bonne Terre tend to have salaries at or below the average, reflecting the town’s overall cost of living and economic structure.

Climate and Weather

Bonne Terre experiences a climate with distinct seasonal variations, characterized by hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The hot season typically lasts from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 80°F. July is the hottest month, with highs around 88°F and lows near 69°F (as reported by Time and Date).

Conversely, the cold season spans from late November to late February, with average daily high temperatures below 51°F. January is the coldest month, with lows around 26°F and highs near 42°F (as reported by Time and Date). The area experiences significant seasonal variation in humidity, with muggy conditions common from late May through late September.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall

The average temperature in Bonne Terre hovers around 66°F high and 44°F low annually (as reported by Livability.com). Over the course of the year, temperatures typically range from 26°F to 89°F, rarely falling below 10°F or exceeding 97°F (as reported by Time and Date). The average annual rainfall is approximately 45 inches (as reported by Livability.com), with monthly averages varying throughout the year. For example, May typically sees the highest rainfall at 5.31 inches, while January has the lowest at 2.36 inches (as reported by Plantmaps).

The amount of sunshine varies throughout the year, with clearer conditions generally from mid-June to early November. August is typically the clearest month, with clear, partly cloudy, or mostly clear skies about 68% of the time. Conversely, February is the cloudiest month, with overcast or mostly cloudy skies around 53% of the time (as reported by Time and Date).

Seasonal Weather Patterns

Summers in Bonne Terre are generally hot and muggy, offering opportunities for outdoor activities, though heat advisories might be necessary during peak months. Winters are considerably colder, with average snowfall around 10 inches annually (as reported by Livability.com), requiring preparation for winter conditions.

The transition seasons, spring and fall, typically offer more moderate temperatures. Spring can bring a chance of showers and thunderstorms, especially in the earlier months, while autumn usually presents clearer skies and cooler, pleasant weather. The climate is described as having a “Relatively Moderate” climate risk (as reported by Kurby AI).

Education and Demographics

Bonne Terre is served by the North St. Francois County R-I School District, which operates several schools within the community. The district includes North County Primary School, North County Intermediate School, North County Middle School, and North County Senior High School. Niche.com provides ratings for these schools, with most receiving a “C” grade, and North County Senior High School having a “C-” grade (as reported by Niche).

The demographic makeup of Bonne Terre shows a population of approximately 6,683 residents, with a slight decrease from previous years (as reported by Data USA and Census Reporter). The racial composition is predominantly White, at approximately 77.42%, followed by Black or African American at 11.49%, and smaller percentages for other racial groups (as reported by Census Dots and Population.com). The median age in Bonne Terre is around 39 years (as reported by Population.com).

School Ratings and Performance

Educational institutions in Bonne Terre, part of the North St. Francois County R-I School District, generally receive mixed reviews. North County Primary School holds a “C+” overall Niche Grade, while North County Parkside Elementary School and North County Intermediate School both have “C” grades (as reported by Niche). North County Middle School is rated “C” by Niche, and North County Senior High School has a “C-” grade, with a 3.36 out of 5 rating based on 107 reviews (as reported by Niche).

Performance metrics for North County Senior High School indicate that 18% of students are proficient in math and 35% in reading, with a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1 (as reported by Niche). The graduation rate at North County Senior High School is 69% (as reported by Homes.com). The town also has a public library, the Bonne Terre Memorial Library.

Population and Diversity

Bonne Terre’s population is around 6,683 individuals, experiencing a slight decline in recent years (as reported by Data USA). The community is predominantly White, making up about 77.42% of the population, with Black or African American residents comprising 11.49% (as reported by Population.com). Multiracial residents account for 9.38%, and Hispanic or Latino individuals make up 2.5% of the population (as reported by Census Dots).

The percentage of residents born outside the United States is low, at 2.45% (as reported by Data USA), which is lower than the national average. In terms of citizenship, 99.2% of Bonne Terre residents are U.S. citizens, a figure higher than the national average of 93.2% (as reported by Data USA).

Pros and Cons of Living in Bonne Terre

Bonne Terre presents a compelling option for those prioritizing affordability and a slower pace of life, yet it also comes with considerations regarding safety and amenities. The significantly lower cost of living, particularly in housing, stands out as a major advantage, making homeownership more attainable for many residents. The small-town atmosphere fosters a sense of community and belonging, which can be highly desirable for individuals and families seeking a close-knit environment.

On the other hand, the town’s crime rates, while showing some recent improvement in certain metrics, are still a point of concern when compared to national averages. The job market, while offering some opportunities, may present challenges for those seeking high-paying or specialized careers, with average salaries below national figures. Furthermore, the town’s car-dependent nature, indicated by a Walk Score of 0/100, means that a vehicle is essential for most daily activities.

Key Advantages

The primary draw of Bonne Terre is its affordability. With a median home value significantly lower than the national average, it offers a realistic pathway to homeownership. This economic advantage extends to other living expenses, such as food and transportation, which are also below national averages (as reported by Salary.com).

The town’s small population and community-focused environment are also significant pros. This creates a more intimate setting where residents can feel connected and engaged. The generally good air quality (AQI 30) and moderate climate risk also contribute to the quality of life for those who appreciate a more natural and less stressful living environment (as reported by Kurby AI).

Potential Challenges

One of the main challenges for potential residents is the reported crime rate, which, despite some positive trends, remains higher than the national average in certain categories (as reported by NeighborhoodScout and DoorProfit). This may be a deterrent for individuals and families prioritizing safety above all else.

The job market and average salaries in Bonne Terre are also factors to consider. With a median household income lower than the national average and a decline in overall employment, career advancement and high-earning potential might be limited. Additionally, the town’s high car dependency means that reliance on personal vehicles is almost a necessity, as indicated by a Walk Score of 0/100 (as reported by Kurby AI).