Section Image

Carthage

Carthage

Located in Jasper County

$205,258 Average Value
$152 Average Price per Sq Ft
26 Homes For Sale

Site of the first engagement of the US Civil War

A divided area at the time, Carthage, Missouri, was the epicenter of the first official Civil War battle. It saw multiple battles during the American Civil War and was all but burned to the ground. Its rebuilding during the 19th and 20th centuries would leave the small city with many historic sites amidst fanciful architecture and intriguing contributions to the nation’s history. In the first half of the 20th century, it gained fame as a stop along the Route 66. Today, the city leans into its unique position, meshing American history and Missouri’s tourism efforts. “It’s got hometown charm, a lot of historic homes, and a great museum for the Battle of Carthage,” says Keri Ralston, Real Estate Agent with Carthage-based RealPro. “There’s always something happening to help benefit and better the community.” Though the city’s permanent population is roughly 15,500, working at major employers including Leggett and Platt, H.E. Williams, Inc. and Otts Foods, festivals in the area can often bring more than enough attendees to see the city nearly double in size for weekends at a time.

Downtown Carthage is undergoing a revitalization, with renovations and new businesses.
Downtown Carthage is undergoing a revitalization, with renovations and new businesses.
Boots Court Motel is one of the oldest operating motels on Route 66, and built in 1939.
Boots Court Motel is one of the oldest operating motels on Route 66, and built in 1939.
1/2

A collection of historic Victorian homes

Home styles in Carthage often reflect the variety of settings. The city is known for elaborate Victorian homes, many sitting on small lots in a rural town center. These are surrounded by larger colonial revivals, modern farmhouses and ranch-style homes on grassy tree-lined lots. Large homes on an acre or more of land can sell as high as $529,000, while homes on smaller lots near downtown Carthage can sell as low as $85,000. The median home price in 2024 was $218,450, up 9% from the previous year.

Carthage has a surprisingly large number of Victorian homes.
Carthage has a surprisingly large number of Victorian homes.
Ranch homes are common in many neighborhoods throughout Carthage.
Ranch homes are common in many neighborhoods throughout Carthage.
1/2

Carthage R-IX School District

The Carthage R-IX School District earns an overall B-plus on Niche. The district has one preschool, six primary schools and four secondary schools, including the Carthage Technical Center. With just over 5,000 students, the district maintains a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and an average graduation rate of 90%. For private or post-high school education, students must head to Joplin.

Mark Twain Elementary School in Carthage has a B+ rating on Niche.
Mark Twain Elementary School in Carthage has a B+ rating on Niche.
Carthage Technical Center offers a variety of educational opportunities in the trades.
Carthage Technical Center offers a variety of educational opportunities in the trades.
1/2

The Battle of Carthage State Historic Site

Eight parks throughout the city cover more than 170 acres of green space. The city’s most historic park lies at the intersection of East Chestnut and South River Streets. The Battle of Carthage State Historic Site was the site of the first official engagement of the American Civil War. Other parks in the city hold standard amenities like playgrounds, pools and picnic areas, and the park system hosts various events like concerts, car shows and rodeos.

The Carter Spring Trail runs through the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site.
The Carter Spring Trail runs through the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site.
Carter Park offers a variety of areas for play and adventure.
Carter Park offers a variety of areas for play and adventure.
1/2

Shopping and dining off Route 66

Just off the famous Route 66, downtown Carthage is home to the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum, an art museum, a local stage for community gatherings and more. A collection of local shops and restaurants include Asian, Mexican and American cuisine, tattoo parlors, antique shops and local grocery stores. National grocery chain options include Walmart and ALDI just south of Fairview Avenue.

Visit the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum to learn about the history of Carthage.
Visit the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum to learn about the history of Carthage.
The Woodshed is located on the square and is a local favorite.
The Woodshed is located on the square and is a local favorite.
1/2

Marian Days and the Maple Leaf Festival

October’s Maple Leaf Festival is an annual highlight, a week-long celebration of maple trees and their colorful fall foliage. The festival features a carnival, a parade, live music and local food vendors. At the end of summer, Marian Days is an essential pilgrimage for Vietnamese American Catholics, as tens of thousands from across the globe flock to the area in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Other major events in the city include Carthage Stampede, a two-day rodeo event held at Carthage Municipal Park, and other smaller community events.

The Precious Moments Chapel is a unique experience.
The Precious Moments Chapel is a unique experience.
The Carthage Municipal Park is a great place to enjoy being outdoors while the kids play.
The Carthage Municipal Park is a great place to enjoy being outdoors while the kids play.
1/2

Having a car is essential

Carthage has no public transportation options, and many of the city’s streets lack sidewalks, so residents rely on personal vehicles. The famous U.S. Route 66 runs through the city's north end and intersects with Interstate 49, which runs along the city’s western edge. The interstate puts Springfield, Missouri, roughly 58 miles east of Carthage. “You’re not far from having a good time,” Ralston says. “You only have to drive a couple of hours to do something fun.” Joplin Regional Airport, offering select commercial flights, lies 14 miles west of the city, but residents must head 160 miles north to the Kansas City International Airport for international flights. Emergency health services are available at Mercy Hospital Carthage, on Dr. Russell Smith Way. However, the closest certified trauma center is the Level II Trauma Center at Mercy Hospital Joplin, 21 miles southwest.

Lower risk of crime but moderate wildfire risk

According to FBI crime data, Carthage’s property and violent crimes have been slowly declining since 2020, and both rates are typically below national averages. Environmental data from First Street indicates that almost all properties in Carthage are at risk of being affected by wildfires within the next 30 years.

Konrad Solberg
Written By
Konrad Solberg
Michael Denison
Photography Contributed By
Michael Denison
Samantha Houtchens
Video By
Samantha Houtchens

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Lisa Fletcher, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

See All Agents

Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Carthage Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$290,000
Median Sale Price
$237,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$276,200
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$250,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Last 12 months Home Sales
209
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-9%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$152

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
2,509
Number of Homes for Sale
26
Median Year Built
2005
Months of Supply
1.50
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,898
On par with the national average
1,924
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,586
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
750
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
14,157

Open Houses

  • 13397 Co Rd 70, Carthage, MO 64836

    $368,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 3,277 Sq Ft
    • 13397 Co Rd 70
    • New 14 days ago

    Welcome to your own slice of the countryside—where peaceful views, modern living, and room to breathe come together on 5 beautiful acres. Whether you're dreaming of a quiet retreat, a space to garden and explore, or a setup for multigenerational living, this thoughtfully designed home offers flexibility, comfort, and charm.Built in 2021, the home was designed with versatility in mind. The

    Agent Photo
    Lisa Fletcher
    KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY ELEVATE
    (417) 796-3910
    Section Image
    Section Image
  • 6961 County Lane 94, Carthage, MO 64836

    $444,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,584 Sq Ft
    • 6961 County Lane 94
    • New 1 day ago

    Freshly remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home on 2 scenic acres just minutes from Carthage, Missouri. This move-in-ready property features modern updates throughout, a single-car garage, and a large insulated shop with three bay doors perfect for hobbies, storage, or a home business. Enjoy peaceful country living with the convenience of town nearby!

    The Millard Team CHARLES BURT REALTORS

    Section Image
  • 1023 Forest St, Carthage, MO 64836

    $200,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,386 Sq Ft
    • 1023 Forest St
    • New 1 day ago

    4 bedroom, 2 bath Remodeled home with master bedroom. New HVAC, LVP flooring with fresh paint throught the home. White modern kitchen. Large back yard with outdoor deck. Gas service on property.

    Maria Sanchez REALPRO Carthage

    Section Image

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Carthage Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
15,627
Median Age
36
Population under 18
29.5%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
16.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$44,268
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$60,055

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
73.2%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
20.5%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
5.9%
% Population in Labor Force
62.7%

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

36 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

17 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
Carthage