Cost of Living in Livingston County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Livingston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Livingston County ranks #1,319 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Livingston County, Missouri
Livingston County hovers near national affordability
At 14.9%, Livingston County's rent-to-income ratio sits close to—but slightly above—national benchmarks, indicating moderate housing affordability for renters. The county's median rent of $747 falls between state and national norms, paired with a median income of $60,148.
Middle of the Missouri pack
Livingston County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks near the state average of 15.6%, positioning it as a moderate-affordability county in Missouri. Its $747 median monthly rent is just slightly below the state average, reflecting fairly typical housing cost dynamics.
Rents reasonable for the region
Livingston County's $747 rent falls between Linn County's bargain basement ($612) and Lincoln County's premium ($972), marking it as solidly middle-ground. Median home values of $138,300 similarly position the county between regional extremes, offering balanced options for both renters and buyers.
14.9% of income goes to rent
Livingston County renters spend $747 monthly on housing while homeowners pay $707, with median home values of $138,300. At 14.9% of income, rent costs remain manageable, though less generous than in neighboring Linn County.
Livingston offers balanced living costs
If you're seeking a middle path—not the absolute cheapest but still reasonably affordable—Livingston County provides solid value. Compare your projected income and lifestyle against these moderate housing costs to determine your fit in this balanced market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Livingston County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Livingston County is affordable. The median rent is $747/month against a median household income of $60,148, putting rent at 14.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $747/month rent versus $707/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $40/month cheaper — a 5% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,300/year. With a median household income of $60,148, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Livingston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Phelps County where rent averages $801/month, Livingston County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Livingston County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,403
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Livingston County
Median home value is $138,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,104 vs. your max of $1,403.
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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