Carthage, Missouri Demographics & Workforce Insights

Data-Driven Decisions Start Here

Understanding who lives, works, and spends in Carthage is a crucial part of planning your next business move. At the Carthage Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), we provide up-to-date demographic and workforce data to help you make confident, informed decisions. Whether you're opening a storefront, expanding operations, or scouting a site, our local insights can reveal opportunities you won’t find on a national map.

Carthage by the Numbers

Carthage is home to approximately 15,500 residents, and as the seat of Jasper County, it anchors a regional population of over 120,000. Our location along I-49 and near I-44 places us at the crossroads of the four-state area, drawing commuters, customers, and talent from across southwest Missouri, southeast Kansas, northeast Oklahoma, and northwest Arkansas.

Local Consumer Behavior

Carthage’s daily traffic count includes 40,000+ vehicles within five miles of the city center, making it an ideal spot for retail, service, and hospitality businesses. Our residents are loyal to local brands, and new businesses benefit from a community that values personal relationships and small-town service.

  • Average Commute Time: 17 minutes

  • Retail Trade Pull Factor: Higher than the Missouri average

  • Housing Starts: Increasing year over year, with steady new development

  • Tourism Impact: Boosted by Route 66, Precious Moments Chapel, and the historic Carthage Square

Workforce Strength & Regional Reach

Jasper County boasts a highly skilled workforce with strong ties to advanced manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Area technical schools, colleges, and workforce programs contribute to a steady pipeline of talent. Thanks to our strategic location, businesses can draw labor from multiple nearby cities, including:

  • Joplin (15 mins)

  • Webb City (10 mins)

  • Neosho (30 mins)

  • Pittsburg, KS (35 mins)

  • Miami, OK (40 mins)

Why Demographics Matter

We don’t just share stats—we help you interpret what they mean for your business. Whether you're evaluating a site, testing a product fit, or building a local hiring strategy, CEDC is your partner in understanding and leveraging local data.

For a detailed demographic reports, visit the US Census page and get graphs of local demographic data here.

Retail Information. Demographic information for the Fir/Hazel area can be found by clicking on this link. This is a great area for retail or quick-serve restaurant development.

Discover the Resources Behind the Data

Whether you’re evaluating a new market, planning a major investment, or just curious about Carthage’s business potential, the numbers tell a compelling story. Through the Carthage Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), you’ll find the insights, guidance, and partnerships to turn data into opportunity—and plans into progress. Let us help you translate local demographics into strategic decisions that support your next move.

Start with the Right Insight

Carthage is more than a dot on the map; it’s a growing, connected community with real opportunity. If you’re ready to explore the data behind our development, we’re here to help.

Use the form provided to schedule a consultation.