Cost of Living in Dent County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dent County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dent County, Missouri
Dent's Rent Burden Beats National Odds
At 13.6%, Dent County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend a smaller share of earnings on housing than most Americans. The county's median household income of $54,306 is 27% lower than the national average of $74,755, yet affordable rents of $615/month help keep housing costs manageable.
Dent Leads Missouri on Affordability
Dent County ranks among Missouri's most affordable places to rent, with its 13.6% rent-to-income ratio beating the state average of 15.6% by 2 percentage points. The county's median rent of $615 is also $153 cheaper than the state median of $768, making it a bright spot in a state with mixed affordability.
Dent's Rental Market Edges Out Regional Peers
Compared to neighboring Gasconade County (12.4% ratio) and Douglas County (16.5%), Dent holds steady in the middle with reasonable rents and solid income levels. Renters in Dent pay $615/month versus $687 in Douglas, a meaningful $72 difference on modest rural incomes.
Rent and Ownership Both Light on Wallet
Dent renters dedicate roughly 13.6% of their $54,306 annual income to rent ($615/month), while homeowners spend about 14.3% on mortgage and property costs ($646/month). Both figures sit comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning housing leaves most households room for other necessities.
Rural Comfort: Consider Dent for Value
If you're relocating for lower housing costs without sacrificing too much on income, Dent County delivers: affordable rents, reasonable home values ($149,700 median), and an affordability ratio among Missouri's best. Compare Dent's $615 rent against pricier counties like Greene ($940) or Franklin ($874) to see the savings potential.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dent County
Rent Burden
13.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,267
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dent County
Median home value is $149,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,195 vs. your max of $1,267.
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.