Cost of Living in Macon County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Macon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Macon County ranks #1,332 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Macon County, Missouri
Macon County affordable for renters nationwide
At 14.8%, Macon County's rent-to-income ratio beats most national markets, signaling good affordability for renters with modest incomes. With median rents of $719 and a median household income of $58,318, the county punches above its weight in housing accessibility.
Below-average costs in Missouri
Macon County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Missouri's state average of 15.6%, making it one of the state's more affordable counties. At $719 monthly rent, it undercuts the state median of $768, benefiting renters on tighter budgets.
Macon rents undercut most peers
Macon County's $719 rent is competitive, landing between Linn County's rock-bottom rates ($612) and the regional middle, while its home values of $127,000 offer entry-level ownership. This positions Macon as an accessible option for first-time buyers and budget-conscious renters alike.
Under 15% of income on rent
Renters in Macon County spend $719 monthly while homeowners average $693, with median home values of $127,000. At 14.8% of income, housing costs remain well-controlled for a county with median household income of just $58,318.
Macon County: affordable rural living
For those seeking small-town charm without breaking the bank, Macon County delivers manageable housing costs and true affordability. If your income is modest, this county's below-state-average rent-to-income ratio makes relocation financially sensible.
Cost of Living Advisory: Macon County
Affordability Verdict
Macon County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $719/month — about 14.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $719/month rent versus $693/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $26/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,700/year. With a median household income of $58,318, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Macon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Monroe County where rent averages $667/month, Macon County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Macon County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,361
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Macon County
Median home value is $127,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,014 vs. your max of $1,361.
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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