Cost of Living in Greene County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Greene County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Greene County, Missouri
Greene's Rent Burden Outpaces National Norms
Greene County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% significantly exceeds the national baseline, making it one of the nation's most challenging rental markets for working families. With a median household income of $57,488 and rents of $940/month, Greene renters spend a notably larger share of earnings on housing than typical Americans.
Greene Ranks Among Missouri's Least Affordable
At 19.6%, Greene County's rent-to-income ratio dramatically exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, marking it as one of the state's toughest rental markets. The median rent of $940 runs $172 above the state average despite a median household income below state norms.
Greene's Rents Far Outpace Regional Peers
Greene's median rent of $940 is the region's highest by a wide margin—$269 more than Dent ($615), $253 more than Gentry ($620), and even $66 more than Franklin ($874). This affordability crunch reflects Greene's larger urban center (Springfield) driving up housing demand and costs.
Housing Consumes Outsized Share of Income
Greene renters allocate a concerning 19.6% of their $57,488 annual income to $940 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 20.9% ($1,001/month) on ownership costs. Both figures approach or exceed the 30% affordability threshold, leaving households limited financial flexibility for emergencies and savings.
Greene: Premium Urban Living Comes at a Cost
Greene County suits relocating professionals with above-median incomes seeking urban amenities and job opportunities in Springfield, but genuine affordability challenges exist for average earners. If your salary significantly exceeds the $57,488 median or you prioritize urban lifestyle over affordability, Greene may justify the premium rents.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Greene County
Rent Burden
19.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,341
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.9%
of gross income
The median home in Greene County may be a stretch
Median home value is $203,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,625 vs. your max of $1,341.
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.