Cost of Living in Chariton County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chariton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chariton County ranks #489 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chariton County, Missouri
Chariton's exceptional affordability stands out
Chariton County boasts a 10.2% rent-to-income ratio, among the lowest in the nation and well below the national average near 16%. With a median household income of $63,307 paired against modest $540 monthly rent, Chariton residents enjoy the region's most favorable housing-cost balance.
Missouri's affordability leader
Chariton County's 10.2% rent-to-income ratio sits dramatically below Missouri's 15.6% state average, making it one of the state's most affordable counties. At $540 monthly median rent—$228 below the state average—Chariton offers genuine affordability across income levels.
Clear winner among regional counties
Chariton's 10.2% rent burden beats every neighboring county: Carroll (15.3%), Clark (13.7%), and Cedar (20.6%) all pay significantly higher percentages of income toward housing. With rents 30% below the state average, Chariton stands apart as a rural affordability oasis.
Housing leaves room to breathe
On a median income of $63,307, Chariton households spend just $540 monthly on rent (10.2%) or $617 on ownership costs. This unusually low burden—compared to the national guideline of 30%—leaves residents with substantial income for savings, healthcare, and quality-of-life investments.
Chariton's affordability attracts relocators
If you prioritize housing affordability above all, Chariton County delivers: $540 rent paired with median incomes of $63,307 create genuine wiggle room. Weigh Chariton's low costs against job availability and services—but for those finding remote work or flexible employment, few Missouri counties offer better value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chariton County
Affordability Verdict
Chariton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $540/month representing approximately 10.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 21.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $540/month rent versus $617/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $77/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,443/year. With a median household income of $63,307, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Chariton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Maries County where rent averages $594/month, Chariton County is approximately 9% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chariton County
Rent Burden
10.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,477
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Chariton County
Median home value is $118,900. Estimated monthly cost: $949 vs. your max of $1,477.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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