Cost of Living in Mississippi County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mississippi County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mississippi County ranks #2,851 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mississippi County, Missouri
Mississippi faces serious rent burden
Mississippi County renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent—far exceeding the comfortable 12-15% national range. This leaves households with less money for food, transportation, healthcare, and savings.
Worst affordability in Missouri
With a rent-to-income ratio of 20.3%, Mississippi County ranks among Missouri's least affordable regions, dramatically worse than the state average of 15.6%. The 4.7-percentage-point gap reflects a significant affordability crisis for renters.
High rents, low incomes compound
Mississippi's median rent of $782/month exceeds the state average of $768, while the county's median income of $46,258 is the lowest among surrounding counties. This combination creates the region's affordability squeeze.
Mississippi's tight housing squeeze
Mississippi County residents earn just $46,258 annually but pay $782/month in rent or $567/month for mortgages on homes valued at $100,300. For renters, housing alone consumes one-fifth of gross income, leaving minimal budget for other essentials.
Mississippi challenges budget-conscious movers
If you're relocating to Mississippi County, plan carefully: the 20.3% rent-to-income ratio means housing is less affordable here than in neighboring counties. Consider nearby Mercer or Monroe if rental affordability is your priority.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mississippi County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Mississippi County is affordable. The median rent is $782/month against a median household income of $46,258, putting rent at 20.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $782/month rent versus $567/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $215/month cheaper — a 27% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,300/year. With a median household income of $46,258, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Mississippi County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mississippi County sits 7% more expensive than Daviess County ($731/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mississippi County
Rent Burden
20.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,079
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mississippi County
Median home value is $100,300. Estimated monthly cost: $801 vs. your max of $1,079.
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
What is the cost of living in Mississippi County, Missouri?
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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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