Cost of Living in Dunklin County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dunklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dunklin County ranks #2,474 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dunklin County, Missouri
Dunklin Renters Feel National Affordability Squeeze
Dunklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.0% edges above the national baseline, reflecting broader affordability pressures on working families with a median income of $47,368—nearly $27,400 below the national average. Monthly rents of $632 consume a meaningful chunk of already stretched household budgets.
Dunklin Slightly Above State Affordability Average
At 16.0%, Dunklin's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Missouri's 15.6% average, marking it as one of the state's tighter rental markets. The median rent of $632 runs $136 cheaper than the state average, but weak local incomes ($47,368) offset this advantage.
Dunklin's Rents Competitive in Southeast Region
Dunklin County's $632 median rent sits between Dent ($615) and Douglas ($687), offering a middle-ground rental cost in the region. However, Dunklin's median household income of $47,368 is the lowest among its peers, putting renters under greater financial strain.
Ownership and Renting Both Demand Most of Income
Dunklin renters spend 16.0% of their $47,368 annual income on $632 monthly rent, while homeowners allocate 16.7% ($659/month) toward ownership costs. Both housing types consume a notably large share of household income, leaving residents with limited flexibility for savings and emergencies.
Dunklin: Affordable but Income-Dependent
Dunklin County offers the region's lowest median home value ($93,800), making it ideal for first-time buyers with limited down payments, but tight affordability ratios demand stable income. Relocate here only if your job prospects match or exceed the area's $47,368 median—otherwise, housing will strain your finances.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dunklin County
Affordability Verdict
Dunklin County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $632/month — about 16.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Dunklin County pay $632/month on average, compared to $659/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,243/year. With a median household income of $47,368, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Dunklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dunklin County sits 8% less expensive than Dallas County ($685/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dunklin County
Rent Burden
16.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,105
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dunklin County
Median home value is $93,800. Estimated monthly cost: $749 vs. your max of $1,105.
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 Dunklin County, Missouri?
What is the median rent in Dunklin County?
Is Dunklin County affordable?
How does Dunklin County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Dunklin County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Dunklin County, Missouri? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Dunklin 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.