Cost of Living in DeKalb County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How DeKalb County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
DeKalb County ranks #982 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in DeKalb County, Missouri
Competitive income, low rent burden
DeKalb County renters spend 13.8% of their income on housing, falling below both the national average and Missouri's state average of 15.6%. The median household income of $69,093 is competitive with national norms, while median rent of $796 remains modest, creating one of the region's most balanced housing markets.
Strong affordability ranking statewide
DeKalb County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio places it among Missouri's most affordable counties, beating the state average by 1.8 percentage points. With median rent at $796 and household income at $69,093, the county performs well on both income and housing cost metrics.
Competitive with top performers
DeKalb County's median rent of $796 and 13.8% ratio compete directly with Cole County ($804 rent, 13.2% ratio) and Cooper County ($763, 13.6% ratio). Among the eight counties studied, DeKalb ranks in the top three for overall housing affordability.
13.8% of income toward housing
Households in DeKalb County earn a median of $69,093 annually and spend approximately $796 monthly on rent or $752 for ownership, consuming 13.8% of gross income. This favorable ratio provides families substantial financial flexibility for other priorities.
Excellent value for homebuyers
DeKalb County combines competitive household incomes with reasonable housing costs and a median home value of $167,500, making it an excellent choice for families prioritizing affordability. The 13.8% rent-to-income ratio ensures housing won't overshadow your family budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: DeKalb County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in DeKalb County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $796/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in DeKalb County pay $796/month on average, compared to $752/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 6%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,229/year. With a median household income of $69,093, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in DeKalb County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Lafayette County where rent averages $848/month, DeKalb County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in DeKalb County
Rent Burden
13.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,612
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in DeKalb County
Median home value is $167,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,337 vs. your max of $1,612.
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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