Cost of Living in McDonald County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McDonald County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McDonald County, Missouri
McDonald County's affordability crisis
At 19%, McDonald County's rent-to-income ratio far exceeds both national and state averages, making housing costs a genuine burden for renters. With the lowest median household income in this group ($48,145) paired with $764 monthly rents, residents face a serious affordability squeeze.
Missouri's least affordable county here
McDonald County's 19% rent-to-income ratio ranks worst among all eight counties and significantly exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%. This means renters here spend nearly one-fifth of their income on housing—the highest burden in the regional comparison.
McDonald struggles compared to peers
McDonald County's $764 rent sits in the middle regionally, but paired with the lowest median income ($48,145), creates the worst affordability ratio. Residents pay a 19% rent-to-income ratio—more than 3 percentage points above the state average.
Nearly 20% of income on rent
Renters in McDonald County spend $764 monthly while homeowners pay $692, with median home values of $134,100. At 19% of income dedicated to rent, housing costs create the tightest squeeze in this eight-county group.
McDonald County demands careful planning
McDonald County's 19% rent-to-income ratio signals genuine affordability challenges—housing costs will eat significantly into your budget here. Before moving, compare your income carefully to these costs and explore neighboring counties like Maries or Linn for better affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McDonald County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,123
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McDonald County
Median home value is $134,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,071 vs. your max of $1,123.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.