Cost of Living in Knox County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Knox County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Knox County ranks #207 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Knox County, Missouri
Knox County: Missouri's affordability standout
Knox County renters spend only 14.9% of income on rent, well below the national burden of 18.3%, making it one of the most affordable counties nationally. Though median income of $53,333 falls below the U.S. average, housing costs are exceptionally low at just $661 monthly.
Best-in-class Missouri affordability
Knox County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% bests Missouri's state average of 15.6%, while its $661 median rent is the lowest among comparable counties. This combination makes Knox a standout for budget-conscious residents across income levels.
Significantly cheaper than regional peers
Knox County's $661 rent is 27% cheaper than Jasper County ($904) and nearly 40% cheaper than Jefferson County ($972). Despite lower regional incomes, Knox delivers exceptional affordability that outpaces most neighboring counties by a wide margin.
Housing leaves room in small budgets
Renters pay just $661 monthly while homeowners average $619 from a $53,333 median household income. Housing accounts for only 14–15% of pre-tax income, allowing residents to stretch limited earnings across other essential expenses.
Unbeatable affordability for rural preference
Knox County is Missouri's best choice for renters and buyers prioritizing low housing costs and rural living. If affordable housing is your primary goal and you're willing to trade urban amenities for small-town life, Knox County delivers unmatched value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Knox County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Knox County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $661/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Knox County is $661/month, while owner costs run $619/month. Owning saves approximately $42/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,529/year. With a median household income of $53,333, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Knox County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Missouri, Knox County is more affordable than St. Clair County by roughly 9% ($661/mo vs $607/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Knox County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,244
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Knox County
Median home value is $97,200. Estimated monthly cost: $776 vs. your max of $1,244.
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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