Cost of Living in Lewis County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lewis County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lewis County ranks #436 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lewis County, Missouri
Lewis County delivers exceptional affordability
Lewis County renters spend just 14.4% of income on housing, well below the national burden of 18.3%, making it one of Missouri's most affordable counties. Median household income of $52,340 is modest, yet monthly rent of only $627 creates a favorable ratio.
Among Missouri's most affordable counties
Lewis County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.4% beats Missouri's state average of 15.6%, while its $627 median rent is the second-lowest in the regional comparison. This combination places Lewis near the top tier of Missouri county affordability.
Ultra-low rents, minimal income impact
Lewis County's $627 rent is the second-cheapest regionally, trailing only Knox County's $661 by just $34 monthly. Despite similar or slightly lower incomes than neighboring counties, Lewis residents enjoy exceptional housing affordability.
Housing leaves breathing room
Renters spend just $627 monthly while homeowners average $655 from a $52,340 median household income. Housing accounts for only 14–15% of pre-tax income, allowing residents with tight budgets to allocate resources toward savings and essentials.
Best-in-class housing affordability
Lewis County rivals Knox as Missouri's most affordable county for renters and buyers seeking low housing costs. If you prioritize exceptional affordability and embrace rural living, Lewis County's combination of minimal rent and low ratios makes it an outstanding choice.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lewis County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Lewis County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $627/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lewis County pay $627/month on average, compared to $655/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,071/year. With a median household income of $52,340, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Lewis County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Grundy County where rent averages $679/month, Lewis County is approximately 8% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lewis County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,221
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lewis County
Median home value is $118,900. Estimated monthly cost: $949 vs. your max of $1,221.
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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