Walnut Shade

Walnut Shade, Missouri — Rural Charm with Modern Comforts

Location & Heritage

Walnut Shade is an unincorporated community nestled in Taney County, approximately six miles northwest of Forsyth along U.S. Route 160. It sits at the confluence of Bull and Bear Creeks and belongs to the Branson Micropolitan Statistical Area. Established with a post office since 1860, the area’s name—“Walnut Shade”—reflects its scenic and nature-inspired character.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

• Bonniebrook Homestead, located nearby, is steeped in local history. Once the Ozark home of Rose O’Neill, creator of the Kewpie doll, it’s now a fully reconstructed 14-room historical property that includes an art gallery, museum, and archives—open to the public.
• Walnut Shade is also known for the Branson Cross, the largest cross monument in North America, visible from U.S. Highway 65.

Demographics & Lifestyle

• The community is small but vibrant, with approximately 1,458 residents and a median age of 45.
• Median household income is $112,250, with an average around $142,188, indicating a relatively affluent, stable population.
• Ownership is dominant, with over 92% of housing units owner-occupied. The median value of homes under mortgage sits around $413,500, and average housing costs hover at $1,085/month.
• Most of the workforce is in white-collar professions (over 92%), and roughly 15% are entrepreneurs, reflecting a strong self-employed presence.

Real Estate Profile

• Median listing prices range from about $460,000 (Realtor.com) to $525,000 (Realtor.com & Zillow).
• Listings span a broad range—from modest land parcels starting at about $75,000 to luxury creek-front ranches valued near $2 million.
• Featured properties include:
  • A 139-acre creekfront ranch with pasture and horse stables, priced near $2 million.
  • A luxury 5-bed, 3,799 sq ft home along U.S.‑160 for $1,995,000.
  • Cozy and scenic single-family homes in the $364,000–$593,000 range.
• Whitetail Crossing subdivision offers upscale living with high-end finishes like stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, granite countertops, and scenic views—all within the sought-after Branson School District, and with no HOA fees.

Community Appeal

• Rural tranquility meets urban convenience—just minutes from Branson’s entertainment and shopping, but enveloped in the Ozarks’ natural charm.
• Strong schools and community services, thanks to inclusion in the award-winning Branson School District.
• A diverse housing market, offering everything from buildable land plots to drop-dead-gorgeous estates.
• Rich cultural and heritage assets, including Bonniebrook and Branson Cross, enhance local identity and community pride.

Draft Real Estate Summary:

Discover Walnut Shade, Missouri — an inviting enclave of rural elegance set in Taney County and rewarded by natural beauty and storied history. With around 1,458 residents, the area combines a tranquil Ozarks landscape with upscale, owner-occupied homes. Real estate here spans from land parcels to gorgeous creek-front estates, with median prices ranging around $460K to $525K—and standout offerings up to $2 million. Situated just minutes north of Branson, within the respected Branson School District, Walnut Shade is perfect for families, investors, or anyone drawn to quiet country living with access to entertainment, culture, and rich Ozark heritage.