Cost of Living in Buchanan County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Buchanan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Buchanan County, Missouri
Buchanan residents stretch to afford rent
At 17.9%, Buchanan County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average and Missouri's 15.6% state norm. Median rent of $889 monthly eats into household income of $59,423, creating affordability headwinds for renters.
Second-worst affordability in Missouri
Buchanan County ranks second-worst in this group with a 17.9% rent-to-income ratio, trailing only Boone County's college-town spike. The median rent of $889 runs $121 above the state average, squeezing renters with below-average income.
Costlier than nearby Callaway
Buchanan County renters pay $889 monthly (17.9% of income) compared to Callaway's more manageable $850 (14.0%), despite similar household incomes. The $111 annual rent premium adds up—and so does the affordability gap versus Caldwell County at just 12.1%.
Split down the middle
Buchanan County households earn $59,423 annually, with renters paying $889 monthly (17.9%) and homeowners facing $890 in monthly costs on median homes worth $156,600. Owner and renter burdens are nearly identical, indicating steady—if constrained—affordability across tenure types.
Buchanan works if you prioritize location
If you're relocating to Buchanan County, budget for the second-highest housing costs in this region at 17.9% of income. Nearby Callaway and Caldwell offer significantly better affordability for similar employment and quality of life.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Buchanan County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,387
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Buchanan County
Median home value is $156,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,250 vs. your max of $1,387.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.