Ripley County, Missouri is a rural county located in the southeastern corner of the state. It has a population of 14,062, with a median age of 41.8 years. The median household income is $36,812, which is slightly lower than the national average. The unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is lower than the national average of 5.2%.
The county is largely agricultural, with the majority of its land used for farming. The major crops are corn, soybeans, and cotton. Livestock production is also important to the area, with cattle, hogs, and poultry being the most common.
Education in Ripley County is provided by a variety of public and private institutions. There are four public school districts in the county, which serve students in grades K-12. The county also has two private schools, one of which is a Catholic school. The county is home to one college, Three Rivers Community College, which offers associate's degrees and certificate programs.
Real estate in Ripley County is relatively affordable. The median home value is $82,800, which is lower than the national average of $184,700. The median rent is $621, which is lower than the national average of $949. The median property tax rate is 1.14%, which is lower than the national average of 1.19%.
Overall, Ripley County is a rural area with a low cost of living and a strong agricultural base. It is home to a variety of educational institutions and offers affordable housing options.