Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #2,512 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Missouri
Jefferson County beats national affordability
With a rent-to-income ratio of 14.5%, Jefferson County renters spend less on housing than the national average of 18.3%, signaling strong affordability relative to income. Median household income of $80,522 also outpaces the nation by $5,767, providing a financial cushion many counties lack.
One of Missouri's most affordable counties
Jefferson County ranks among Missouri's most balanced housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio below the state average of 15.6%. Its $972 median rent aligns with state patterns, but higher incomes make the burden lighter than in most peer counties.
Premium housing, premium income advantage
Jefferson County's median rent of $972 is higher than neighboring Laclede ($796) and Lawrence ($785), but its $80,522 median income is substantially stronger. This income advantage explains why Jefferson residents report better affordability despite paying more in absolute rent dollars.
Housing costs are manageable here
Renters spend $972 monthly while homeowners average $1,168—both reasonable shares of a $80,522 median household income. Housing accounts for roughly 14–17% of pre-tax income, positioning Jefferson as one of the more comfortable counties in the region.
Jefferson offers suburban balance
If you value proximity to Saint Louis metro employment with stronger affordability than the urban core, Jefferson County delivers solid housing value for higher incomes. Your purchasing power here supports both rental and ownership without stretching your budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Jefferson County is affordable. The median rent is $972/month against a median household income of $80,522, putting rent at 14.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $972/month on average, compared to $1,168/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 17%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,057/year. With a median household income of $80,522, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Warren County where rent averages $913/month, Jefferson County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,879
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $218,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,747 vs. your max of $1,879.
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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