Cost of Living in Dallas County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dallas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dallas County ranks #678 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dallas County, Missouri
Lower income, balanced rent burden
Dallas County's median household income of $53,177 falls well below the national average of $74,755, yet renters spend just 15.5% on housing—nearly matching national norms. The median rent of $685 is among the lowest studied, but the county's income challenges make every housing dollar count more.
Below-average income and rent
Dallas County's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio performs near the Missouri average of 15.6%, while its median rent of $685 ranks among the state's most affordable. However, the median household income of $53,177 is significantly below Missouri norms, indicating a rural economy with limited higher-wage opportunities.
Low rents, but tight budgets
Dallas County's median rent of $685 ranks second-lowest among the eight counties studied, beaten only by Dade County's $650. Yet with a median income of $53,177—higher only than Dade's—the 15.5% ratio reflects a county where affordable housing masks underlying income constraints.
15.5% of income toward housing
Dallas County households earn a median of $53,177 annually and spend approximately $685 monthly on rent or $656 for ownership, consuming 15.5% of gross income. The low median home value of $151,200 means ownership costs remain modest but employment-dependent.
Attractive for retirees and remote workers
Dallas County's low rents and overall cost of living make it appealing for retirees on fixed incomes or remote workers with stable outside income. However, local employment opportunities are limited; relocate here only if your income source is secure and location-independent.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dallas County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Dallas County is affordable. The median rent is $685/month against a median household income of $53,177, putting rent at 15.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $685/month rent versus $656/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $29/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,114/year. With a median household income of $53,177, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Dallas County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dallas County sits 7% less expensive than Stoddard County ($737/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dallas County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,241
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dallas County
Median home value is $151,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,207 vs. your max of $1,241.
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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