Cost of Living in Callaway County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Callaway County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Callaway County ranks #2,574 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Callaway County, Missouri
Callaway balances income and affordability
Callaway County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio sits below the state average of 15.6% and reflects the region's second-highest household income at $72,645. At $850 monthly, rent remains manageable despite income still trailing the national average of $74,755.
Above-average income, solid affordability
Callaway County ranks third in this group for affordability with a 14.0% rent-to-income ratio, benefiting from above-average household income of $72,645. This combination places it among Missouri's more livable counties.
Middle ground between comfort and value
Callaway County's $850 rent and 14.0% ratio strike a balance: better than pricey Boone (18.2%) and Buchanan (17.9%), though not as cheap as Caldwell (12.1%). It offers strong household income ($72,645) second only to Boone County.
Solid earnings support housing costs
Callaway County households earn $72,645 annually, paying $850 monthly rent (14.0% of income) or $981 for ownership on median homes valued at $196,200. Both pathways remain affordable thanks to incomes above the county group average.
Callaway offers comfort and value
Relocating to Callaway County provides a sweet spot: above-average income potential ($72,645), a manageable 14.0% rent-to-income ratio, and reasonable home values at $196,200. It's an ideal choice if you want affordability without sacrificing earning potential.
Cost of Living Advisory: Callaway County
Affordability Verdict
Callaway County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $850/month representing approximately 14.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 23.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Callaway County is $850/month, while owner costs run $981/month. Renting saves approximately $131/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,043/year. With a median household income of $72,645, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Callaway County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Missouri, Callaway County is more affordable than DeKalb County by roughly 7% ($850/mo vs $796/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Callaway County
Rent Burden
14.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,695
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Callaway County
Median home value is $196,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,566 vs. your max of $1,695.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Callaway County, Missouri?
What is the median rent in Callaway County?
Is Callaway County affordable?
How does Callaway County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Callaway County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Callaway County, Missouri? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Callaway 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.