Ready to discover the best luxury apartments in Joplin, MO? We have choices for upscale family living and luxury apartments. We want you to live your best life in an amazing metropolitan area.
Learn how to research the best apartments in Joplin for your situation with our guide. We’ll cover some pro tips as you narrow down your next place to live.
Make a Checklist When Finding Apartments in Joplin, MO
Create a checklist that showcases your priorities. Then, write down which apartments you find that meet your criteria.
Consider these items:
- Monthly Rent
- Amenities
- Location
- Size
- Pet-Friendly
- Kid-Friendly
- Utilities
Another checklist can revolve around what you need to investigate before signing a lease. These items include:
Apartment Features
- Number of bedrooms/bathrooms
- Square footage
- In-unit laundry or on-site laundry
- Heating & cooling (central air, radiators, etc.)
- Natural light/windows
- Noise level (near a busy street, thin walls?)
Building & Community Experience
- Elevator vs. walk-up
- Security measures (key fobs, cameras, doorman)
- Parking (assigned spot, garage, street availability)
- Package receiving area
- Pet-friendly policies
- Maintenance responsiveness
Costs and Fees
- Rent amount + deposit
- Utilities (included or extra?)
- Application & move-in fees
- Parking fees
- Renter’s insurance requirement
Neighborhood
- Commute time to work/school
- Nearby grocery stores, gyms, restaurants, nightlife
- Crime rates and safety
- Public transportation options
- Noise level (construction, bars, traffic)
Touring the Apartment
- Signs of pests (droppings, dead bugs, holes in walls)
- Water pressure & hot water availability
- Condition of appliances and flooring
- Working locks on doors and windows
- Cell phone reception
Reviewing the Lease Before Signing
- Rent increase policy
- Subletting or breaking lease terms
- Guest policy and quiet hours
- Maintenance responsibilities
Create a Budget for Apartment Living
Budgeting is probably first on your list of priorities when choosing your apartments in Joplin. Experts agree that your monthly rent should not exceed 30% of your take-home income.
First, calculate your take-home pay. Then, subtract your expenses other than housing. Your remaining budget is what you have left for rent.
Other fixed expenses to include when budgeting are:
- Utilities
- Renter’s Insurance
- Current Debt (loans, credit cards)
- Subscriptions
Don’t forget variable expenses:
- Groceries
- Gasoline/Transportation
- Shopping
- Eating Out
- Pet Supplies
Here’s a hypothetical monthly example:
- Income, $5,000
- Rent, $1,500
- Utilities + Bills, $450
- Groceries & Food, $600
- Transportation, $150
- Shopping & Personal, $100
- Savings & Emergency, $1,000
- Total Expenses of $3,800
- Leftover for Extras, $1,200
What Lifestyle Do You Want?
As part of the process of finding an apartment in Joplin that fits your needs, determine what lifestyle you want. Do you prefer to live comfortably? Do you want to live below your means so you can save money? Do you favor upscale or luxury living?
The lifestyle you want can change your budget and how you approach your next place to live. If you want to improve your current living situation, consider scaling back some variable expenses like eating out. Another thing to do is to pay off some debts to eliminate some monthly payments. The savings can go toward paying more in rent.
On the other hand, you can save more for retirement or pay off some debts if you choose to rent an apartment in Joplin that is lower than the 30% threshold. What are your future goals? Adding to your savings can give you some options later on after your current lease is up.
Research the Location of Your Future Apartment
You’ve heard the phrase, “Location, location, location.” This is definitely true when scouting an apartment in Joplin. What’s nearby? Can you reach everywhere you need to? Are your favorite neighborhood amenities within reach?
Research these aspects of the apartment’s location before choosing a place to live. Again, remember your priorities and what is important to you.
1. Commute & Transportation
- Distance to work, school, or frequent destinations
- Availability of public transportation (bus, subway, train)
- Traffic conditions and commute time during peak hours
- Availability of bike lanes and walkability
- Rideshare and taxi service accessibility
2. Neighborhood Safety
- Crime rate statistics and reports
- Street lighting and overall visibility at night
- The presence of security cameras and police patrols
- Condition of nearby properties and buildings
3. Essential Services & Conveniences
- Grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores
- Pharmacies and medical facilities
- Gas stations and banks
- Postal services and delivery reliability
4. Lifestyle & Amenities
- Gyms, parks, and recreational spaces
- Restaurants, cafes, and nightlife options
- Shopping centers and entertainment venues
- Community events and local culture
5. Noise Levels & Environment
- Proximity to highways, railroads, or airports
- Nearby bars, clubs, or event venues that may create noise
- Construction sites or ongoing development projects
- General street traffic and pedestrian activity
6. Parking & Accessibility
- Availability of street parking and permit requirements
- Cost of parking garages or dedicated parking spots
- Ease of access to highways and main roads
- Sidewalk conditions and wheelchair accessibility
7. Internet & Utility Services
- Internet provider options and speed availability
- Cell phone reception strength in the area
- Frequency of power or water outages reported by residents
Read Reviews About Apartments in Joplin, MO
Reviews are vital when looking for a place to live. Look at the cumulative rating of the place on Google, Facebook, Apartments.com, Zillow, and other sources.
One thing to note is that you need to see a balanced perspective of the reviews. Some people may say glowing things. Others may rant. Find out what most people are saying to determine the overall sentiment of the apartment.
Tap into social media and read what people are saying. Again, are most sentiments positive or negative? What are the comments saying?
Look for:
- Apartment tours on Instagram or TikTok using hashtags for the local area
- Rental scams
- Rent prices
- Landlord reputation
- How landlords handle maintenance issues and requests
- Local events
- Neighborhood vibe
- Mentions of hidden fees or deposits
- Tenant turnover and evictions
- Nearby restaurants that post on social media
- Neighborhood groups and community pages
Managing Roommates
Make sure you follow the lease when it comes to roommates. Some places don’t allow more than two or three unrelated people to live together in the same apartment.
Some places have a limit on the total number of people per bedroom. For example, no more than four family members could live in a two-bedroom apartment with two people per bedroom.
Another thing to think about is that many places require a pre-lease tour for everyone who will be listed on the lease. So, if you plan to have a roommate, schedule a tour with the people you will be living with.
After you figure out if a roommate situation is going to work out, consider setting guidelines for paying the rent, utilities, and other communal expenses. This makes it easier when bills are due.
Renter’s Insurance
Many apartments in Joplin, MO require renter’s insurance. This is to cover your personal belongings in case something happens. Typical renter’s insurance policies have different segments, depending on your needs.
There are policies that cover personal property. Another covers liability, which protects you in case someone gets hurt in your apartment. Loss of use coverage pays for temporary housing if your apartment becomes unlivable. Think about separate policies that cover high-value items like jewelry, coins, and collections.
Shop around for renter’s insurance to find the right provider and policy that meets your needs. Remember, each renter’s insurance policy will come with deductibles you must pay before the insurance kicks in. The higher the monthly payment you make, in general, the lower your deductible will be.
Must-Haves Versus Wants
As you research apartments in Joplin, MO, choose your must-haves versus wants. What do you absolutely need to have in order to create the best living environment? Do you prefer a family-friendly space for your small kids? How about pet-friendly living?
Consider some of these popular amenities as you prioritize your living situation:
- Modern appliances
- Open floor plan
- Playground
- Dog park
- Exercise room
- Swimming pool
- Storm shelter
- Patio with grill
- Picnic area
- Basketball court
- Pickleball court
- Covered parking
- Security patrols
- On-site management
- Nearby restaurants, shopping, transportation, and healthcare
Plan Three Months Ahead for Your Apartment in Joplin
It’s vitally important to think three months ahead when researching an apartment in Joplin. There are several reasons why you need to have a plan in place for your move.
Finances
Not only do you need to provide a security deposit for your new place, but you also need to continue paying rent until the lease expires. If you move in during the middle of the month, you might pay pro-rated rent for the partial month. So, save up some money for the security deposit.
Services
Prepare to transfer or set up any services well in advance. This includes notifying utilities and internet providers. You’ll also need to transfer the mail to your new address with a specific starting date. Make sure to invest in a renter’s insurance policy that meets your needs.
Soon after the move, change your address with other services like your cellphone, bank, healthcare providers, insurance, and more. Changing the address for your bank is important if you have items shipped to your apartment. The billing address on the account must match what you have with the bank.
Moving Time
Moving time should be as efficient as possible to avoid any last-minute snafus. If you need to hire a mover, we highly recommend contacting them three months in advance. A moving company’s time can fill up quickly, especially in the summer months when most people move.
Ask Your Future Landlord Questions
The place where you live is very important, both in your investment and for your quality of life. Make sure to ask your future landlord plenty of questions before taking a tour. Not all information will be listed on the website or on social media. A video tour won’t show you everything you need to know.
Ask these questions before you dive deeper into the leasing process. The point is to see if this place meets your basic needs. It might be better to email these questions to the landlord, but calling isn’t a bad idea, either.
We are happy to answer any and all questions you may have about our apartments in Joplin.
Basic Property and Lease Questions
- What is the monthly rent, and what does it include? (Utilities, parking, maintenance, etc.)
- What is the security deposit amount? Are there any move-in fees?
- What is the lease term? (12 months, month-to-month, etc.)
- Are there any income or credit score requirements?
- What is the pet policy? (Fees, breed restrictions, weight limits)
- What’s the penalty for breaking the lease early?
Maintenance and Repairs
- Who handles maintenance requests, and how quickly are they resolved?
- Is there 24/7 emergency maintenance?
- Are tenants responsible for any repairs?
Building and Neighborhood Near Apartments in Joplin, MO
- What security measures are in place? (Locks, cameras, gated access, etc.)
- What’s the parking situation? (Assigned spots, guest parking, fees)
- Are there any shared amenities? (Laundry, gym, pool, rooftop)
- What is the typical noise level in the area/building?
- What’s the neighborhood like in terms of safety, transportation, and nearby stores/restaurants?
Utilities and Additional Costs
- Which utilities are included, and what’s the average cost for those not included?
- Are there any required renters’ insurance policies?
- Are there any additional fees (amenity fees, garbage pickup, etc.)?
Move-In and Lease Specifics
- When is the unit available for move-in?
- Can I see a copy of the lease before the tour?
- Are there any current issues with the unit that need to be fixed before moving in?
Drive Through the Neighborhood
Of course, you should do your own research before taking a tour of your new place. Drive around the neighborhood to see what the vibe is like. Pay attention to the people, buildings, surroundings, streets, and businesses.
You’ll find that our apartments in Joplin, MO are in welcoming neighborhoods and are close to many amenities and services.
1. Safety & Security
- Signs of crime like broken windows, graffiti, or abandoned buildings
- Are the streets well-lit at night?
- Do you see patrol cars or a nearby police station?
- Are there controlled access points or gated security measures for buildings?
2. Noise & Activity Levels
- Visit in the morning, evening, and late at night to see if it’s quiet or lively.
- A lot of nightlife might mean noise and parking issues.
- Are there frequent honking horns, sirens, or train noises?
- Are people out walking, or does the area seem deserted?
3. Parking & Transportation
- Are parking spots available along the street, or is it packed?
- Look for permit signs, metered parking, or restrictions.
- Are bus stops, train stations, or bike lanes nearby for public transportation?
- Is it congested during rush hour?
4. Convenience & Walkability
- How close are the nearest grocery stores and pharmacies?
- Are there good food and drink options nearby for restaurants?
- Are there areas to walk, jog, or relax with parks or green spaces?
- Is there a gym, post office, or urgent care close by?
5. Cleanliness & Maintenance
- Are streets and sidewalks well-maintained, or do you see trash and litter scattered about?
- Do you notice rodents or insects in alleys or near dumpsters?
- Are sidewalks cracked or in poor shape?
6. Neighborhood Vibe & Community
- Do the people living there match the kind of community you want?
- Are there kids playing, or are there mostly young professionals? Are there a lot of retirees or grandparents?
- Check for farmer’s markets, festivals, or local bulletin boards for upcoming activities.
7. Construction & Future Development
- Are new buildings going up, which could mean future noise or rent hikes?
- A lot of empty shops could mean an area in decline.
Take a Tour
If everything checks out so far, consider taking a tour. Set aside at least an hour of time for a comprehensive look, and feel free to ask the landlord as many questions as you need to.
Check these items in the apartment:
- Parking
- Outdoor Space
- Outside Appearance
- Security/Lock/Front Door
- Appliances
- Flooring
- Kitchen Cabinets
- Under the Sinks
- Faucets
- Bathrooms
- Bedrooms & Closets
- Layout, Room Sizes & Space Efficiency
- Natural Light or Windows
Review the Rental Application
Sometimes, a landlord may require you to fill out an application after taking the tour. It lets both parties know they are serious about renting. Rental applications may require a nonrefundable deposit, anywhere from $15 to $50 per applicant, to run a background check.
You’ll need basic information, such as contact information and previous addresses, so that the landlord can determine if you’re a good fit. Your future landlord may also ask questions about your previous rental history.
Prepare Your Rental References
It’s up to each landlord as to how many rental references they need from previous landlords. Some ask for at least one year, and others ask for five years of rental history. Consider letting your current landlord know to expect a phone call or email from your next landlord as you explore options.
Beware of Rental Scams
Our property management team ensures every resident has the best experience possible, whether you choose our apartments in Joplin or another location in the four-state region that you love.
Our properties feature dedicated on-site managers, premium appliances, exceptional construction quality, inviting community amenities, and thoughtfully designed modern finishes throughout.
Unfortunately, not all landlords are trustworthy. Some rental scams exist simply to make money, not caring about the residents at all.
Watch for these warning signs of rental scams:
1. The Deal Seems Too Good to Be True
- If the rent is significantly lower than similar listings in the area, be suspicious.
- Scammers use low prices to lure in desperate renters quickly.
2. No In-Person Tours Allowed
- The “landlord” refuses to show the place and makes excuses (out of town, sick, etc.).
- They claim they can mail you the keys after you send a deposit.
3. High-Pressure Tactics
- The landlord pushes you to send money ASAP, saying there are “many other interested renters.”
- They try to rush you into signing without letting you see the lease or unit.
4. Requests for Upfront Payment Before Seeing the Property
- Scammers often ask for security deposits or the first month’s rent via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- Legitimate landlords will usually accept checks, direct deposit, or payments after signing a lease.
5. No Lease Agreement or Unprofessional Lease
- They refuse to provide a written lease or give a vague, incomplete document.
- The lease has tons of typos or doesn’t match typical rental agreements.
6. Listing Details Don’t Match Reality
- The description seems generic or copied from another listing.
- Google the address. If the unit is listed under a different property management company, it’s a red flag.
7. Fake Landlord or Property Manager
- The “landlord” claims to be out of the country and wants to communicate only by email or messaging apps.
- If you ask about the property management company, they dodge the question.
8. The Listing Uses Stolen Photos
- Search the images using Google Reverse Image Search to see if they were taken from another website.
- Some scammers steal real estate photos from Airbnb, Zillow, or other rental listings.
9. No Tenant Screening Process
- A real landlord will ask for your credit score, references, or proof of income.
- If they say, “No background check needed!”—it’s likely a scam.
10. Strange Payment Requests
- They ask for rent via Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App before signing anything.
- They insist on wired money (Western Union, MoneyGram), which is hard to trace or recover.
Look Over Services Like Movers and Storage
Do you need help transitioning to your new apartment in Joplin? Research movers and storage facilities to make the experience more efficient. Joplin offers several reliable moving companies and convenient storage facilities ready to serve your needs.
Movers can make move-in day more efficient and less stressful. They could have your items loaded and ready to go in a few hours. If you think you and some friends would take all day to move, consider an affordable moving company to help.
Storage facilities allow you to keep extra items without taking up space in your new apartment. Storage is particularly effective if the new apartment is smaller than the place you just came from.
Rent an Apartment in Joplin or Webb City
We want you to have the best apartment rental experience in Joplin or Webb City. Find a property here, look over available rentals, and contact us to take a tour. We’re happy to help in any way we can.
