Considering Joplin (Springfield, Laclede: apartments, rental, crime rate)

[Trailhiker]

I line in North Dakota now, but went to college in Springfield, Missouri. I will have the opportunity to transfer next Spring, and really want to return to Missouri. I liked Springfield, but would prefer a slightly smaller city.

I have only been to Joplin once, so I wanted to ask a few questions before I add it to my list of cities to visit.

Just how bad is the Joplin crime scene? A lot of people say it has increased compare to 10 years ago? I am mostly concerned about theft and violent crime. I am sure there are lots of meth users, just like in Springfield, but they never bothered me. Can a person still walk and feel safe for the most part? Where should I avoid?

Are there sidewalks along the major streets? I walk and bike a lot because of an eye condition and cannot drive. I could make sure I live close to work, and don't mind walking for other things. (I walk 2 miles to work now)

Is it realistic to get a simple 1 bedroom apartment under $550?

Thanks in advance for any information.

[Someone1515]

The last I read the city had a higher crime rate than a few major cities, but I really wouldn't worry too much about it. I personally haven't ever seen anything go on though, just use common sense and you should be fine. I would think that you could walk nearly anywhere and be okay. It might be a little sketchy at night in downtown, but overall I would think its fairly safe.

As for sidewalks along major streets. Yes, I believe theres sidewalks along all of the major roads. All that I am aware of anyway. I have noticed that they have started adding bike lanes to some of the roads, but they aren't on very many.

I can't really help much with the prices of apartments, but I imagine you could find something fairly decent for that price.

I hope that helped a little bit.

[DocGSD]

I have placed a few links here to previous conversation. I think they will answer many questions.


http://www.city-data.com/forum/misso...at-thread.html


http://www.city-data.com/forum/misso...preciated.html

http://www.city-data.com/forum/sprin...ringfield.html

As for the rent, I own rental property. For $550/mo you could get a small 2br HOUSE downtown. You could also find a fair 1 or 2 bed appt in the Joplin Metro, just stay out of downtown. Most of them are 1000+ per month.

As for the crime, you will have no problems if you obide by the rules that you would in a large city (eyes off and mouth closed). You would have no problem and enjoy it here. As for the drugs, meth is hardly a problem. Some may tell you differently, but they are flat wrong (fact). Joplin PD has been very aggressive on this and arrests are way way down. It's still here, just not near what it was 3 years ago. Good luck.

[JakieBear]

Hello TrailHiker;
I'm new to the area as-well or about to be, closing on house in a couple of weeks, if you have any info regarding Laclede, Missouri, can you please forward said to me, i'm from NY Orig., So i'm in same boat so to speak regarding info aspect.

Maybe this will help you, it's a breakdown on said and as-well you can compare zip area for Demographics !

here is the link;

Moderator cut: link removed, linking to competitors sites is not allowed

Best Wishes;
JB