Cost of Living in Johnson County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Johnson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Johnson County ranks #2,095 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Johnson County, Missouri
Johnson County near national average
Johnson County renters devote 16.2% of income to housing, slightly below the national burden of 18.3%, suggesting moderate affordability. Median household income of $67,123 trails the U.S. average by $7,632, yet housing costs remain manageable relative to earnings.
Better than most Missouri counties
Johnson County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% sits slightly above Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it near the middle of county affordability rankings. At $905 median rent, Johnson residents pay marginally more than the state median of $768.
Balanced pricing in regional comparison
Johnson County's $905 rent and $67,123 income position it between higher-income Jefferson County and lower-income Laclede County. The rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% reflects a middle ground—not the most affordable, but competitive among central Missouri options.
Housing takes fair share of budget
Renters spend $905 monthly and homeowners $1,053 on housing costs from a $67,123 median household income. Housing consumes roughly 16–19% of pre-tax income—a reasonable but non-trivial portion that requires careful budgeting.
Solid middle ground for value seekers
Johnson County offers balanced housing costs without the premium prices of Jefferson or the severe affordability gaps of Jasper and Laclede. If you're seeking moderate rent with decent local employment and community amenities, this county deserves serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Johnson County
Affordability Verdict
Johnson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $905/month representing approximately 16.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Johnson County pay $905/month on average, compared to $1,053/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 14%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,129/year. With a median household income of $67,123, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Johnson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Missouri, Johnson County is more affordable than Callaway County by roughly 6% ($905/mo vs $850/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Johnson County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,566
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Johnson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $221,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,768 vs. your max of $1,566.
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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