2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Branson, MO vs Carbondale, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Carbondale older or younger than people in Branson?
- The Median Age in Carbondale is 14.8 years younger than in Branson.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carbondale or Branson?
- Carbondale housing costs are 53.7% less expensive than Branson housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carbondale or Branson?
- The average commute for residents of Carbondale is 5.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Branson.

Things to do in Branson?
Branson, MO is located in Taney County and has a population of about 12,000 people. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US with attractions like Silver Dollar City theme park and numerous shows being performed nightly. Shopping, golfing and boating are also popular activities here.

Things to do in Carbondale?
Carbondale, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Visitors will find plenty to do and explore, including popular attractions like the Giant City State Park and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. The town boasts a thriving cultural scene with festivals, events, and live music venues all year round. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the abundance of eclectic specialty stores and boutiques. Those looking for outdoor adventure can take part in activities like kayaking or mountain biking at nearby Shawnee National Forest. With its diverse culture and plenty of recreational opportunities, Carbondale is an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience the best that Southern Illinois has to offer.

 Branson, MOCarbondale, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,388329,725,481
 Median Income$45,669  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$250,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.81  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Branson    15 Reviews

Where do I begin... First and foremost, everything here is expensive. The rent is high! and YOU pay for water and sewer costs, most residents live in old, substandard  More

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Over 4 years ago

It’s expensive living and everything is outdated from condos to apartments, and even housing. Traffic is also during tourist months. I don’t recommend living here.  More

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Branson is in a beautiful part of the extreme northern Ozarks- that's the good. Crime, even tho the local Govt tries to act like it doesn't exist, drugs, & Traffic are  More

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Reviews for Carbondale    7 Reviews

I've lived in C'dale for over 30 years. I got an excellent education here - Giant City School was great, though fairly insular and not very diverse (among its drawbacks  More

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Over 17 years ago

I like Carbondale. It is relaxing and an easy way to go about getting a college degree. It has its ups and downs, mainly with the people in the town not recognizing the  More

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All of the comments are negative here and seem to me to be misleading. The idea that you have to have a lot of money in Carbondale is ridiculous. The price of cultural  More

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