Cost of Living in Howell County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Howell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Howell County ranks #1,692 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Howell County, Missouri
Howell's rents strain modest incomes
Howell County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits noticeably above Missouri's state average of 15.6%, signaling affordability challenges for renters. With median household income at $49,814 and monthly rents of $722, housing costs edge toward financial strain.
Above-average rent burden statewide
At 17.4%, Howell County ranks among Missouri's less affordable counties, exceeding the state median by 1.8 percentage points. This gap reflects lower incomes paired with housing demand that outpaces regional norms.
Pricier with lower incomes
Howell County's $722 rent falls between Henry ($740) and Harrison ($666), but combined with the lowest median income in its peer group ($49,814), creates relative affordability pressure. Its $161,000 median home value suggests investment appeal despite rental strain.
Rents outpace income growth
Renters pay $722 monthly on a median household income of just $49,814, consuming 17.4% of earnings—approaching concerning levels. Owners spend $634 monthly (15.3% of income), giving homebuyers a relative advantage over renters here.
Howell favors homebuyers over renters
Relocating renters should weigh Howell's above-average rent burden against its lower home values and investment potential—buying might offer better long-term economics. If you're moving with solid income or purchasing power, Howell's stronger home appreciation prospects may justify the higher cost of living.
Cost of Living Advisory: Howell County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Howell County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $722/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $722/month rent versus $634/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $88/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,171/year. With a median household income of $49,814, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Howell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Gasconade County where rent averages $671/month, Howell County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Howell County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,162
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
The median home in Howell County may be a stretch
Median home value is $161,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,285 vs. your max of $1,162.
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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