Cost of Living in Boone County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Boone County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Boone County, Missouri
College town premium: Boone's housing squeeze
Boone County residents spend 18.2% of income on rent—well above the national standard and significantly higher than the state average of 15.6%. While median household income of $69,913 is competitive, the $1,060 monthly rent reflects demand from the University of Missouri, creating affordability pressure.
Least affordable county in Missouri sample
Among these eight counties, Boone County suffers the worst affordability crisis with an 18.2% rent-to-income ratio. This reflects a college-town dynamic where student and academic demand pushes housing costs above state norms.
College towns cost more
Boone County's $1,060 monthly rent dwarfs nearby Callaway ($850) and Caldwell ($628), making it the priciest in the region by a significant margin. The 18.2% rent burden here exceeds every comparable county in this analysis.
University pull stretches budgets
Boone County households earn $69,913 annually but allocate 18.2% to rent ($1,060) or face ownership costs of $1,156 monthly with median home values at $254,100. This is the costliest housing market in the group, driven by institutional demand.
Budget for Boone County premium
Relocating to Boone County means accepting the state's tightest housing market; renters here spend 18.2% of income versus 14.2% in Bollinger County. If affordability is your priority, look south or east to Callaway, Cape Girardeau, or Caldwell instead.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Boone County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,631
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.8%
of gross income
The median home in Boone County may be a stretch
Median home value is $254,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,029 vs. your max of $1,631.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Boone County, Missouri?
What is the median rent in Boone County?
Is Boone County affordable?
How does Boone County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Boone County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Boone County, Missouri? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Boone County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.