Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #2,090 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Missouri
Lincoln County beats national affordability
At 13.7%, Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national standard, making housing costs more manageable for renters here. The county's median household income of $85,276 also exceeds the national median by $10,521, giving residents more breathing room in their budgets.
Better than most Missouri counties
Lincoln County ranks among Missouri's more affordable areas with a rent-to-income ratio of 13.7%—nearly 2 percentage points below the state average of 15.6%. Its $972 median monthly rent is higher than the state average of $768, but residents' stronger incomes make the trade-off favorable.
Housing costs rise in Lincoln County
Lincoln County's median rent of $972 runs notably higher than nearby Linn County ($612) and Maries County ($594), reflecting its stronger economic position. However, Lincoln County residents earn considerably more—$85,276 versus $61,975 in Linn County—so the higher housing costs remain proportionally manageable.
Rent eats 13.7% of income here
Renters in Lincoln County spend about $972 monthly on rent, while homeowners pay $1,134, with median home values around $224,800. At 13.7% of income, rent costs are among the lowest burden in the region, leaving more dollars for savings and other expenses.
Considering Lincoln County? Strong value awaits
If you're relocating to Missouri, Lincoln County offers solid affordability paired with above-average incomes—a rare combination. Compare your expected salary here against housing costs to see how much you'd save compared to higher-cost metro areas.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Lincoln County is affordable. The median rent is $972/month against a median household income of $85,276, putting rent at 13.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $972/month rent versus $1,134/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $162/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
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 $48,600/year. With a median household income of $85,276, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Lincoln County sits 6% more expensive than Warren County ($913/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
13.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,990
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lincoln County
Median home value is $224,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,795 vs. your max of $1,990.
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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