Cost of Living in Madison County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #1,996 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Missouri
Madison County edges into affordability challenges
At 16.8%, Madison County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds both national and state averages, signaling tighter housing budgets for renters here. With a median income of $58,435 and rents at $817 monthly, housing costs claim a notably larger share of paychecks than in neighboring counties.
Among Missouri's pricier counties
Madison County's 16.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the less affordable half of the state. Its $817 median rent also exceeds the state average of $768, creating a double affordability squeeze for residents.
Madison rents strain household budgets
Madison County's $817 rent is the highest in its peer group, while its median household income of $58,435 ranks among the lowest. This unfavorable combination pushes the rent-to-income ratio to 16.8%—notably worse than most neighboring counties.
Nearly 17% of income goes to rent
Renters in Madison County spend $817 monthly on housing, while homeowners pay $664, with median home values of $155,900. At 16.8% of income dedicated to rent, housing costs leave less discretionary room than in more affordable neighboring counties.
Madison County: weigh costs carefully
Madison County's higher rent-to-income ratio means housing absorbs more of your paycheck than in nearby alternatives. Before relocating here, run the numbers—you may find better affordability in neighboring Macon or Linn counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Madison County is affordable. The median rent is $817/month against a median household income of $58,435, putting rent at 16.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Madison County pay $817/month on average, compared to $664/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,457/year. With a median household income of $58,435, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Madison County sits 7% more expensive than Moniteau County ($766/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
16.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,363
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Madison County
Median home value is $155,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,245 vs. your max of $1,363.
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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