Cost of Living in Monroe County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Missouri
Monroe's rent burden above average
Monroe County renters spend 16.6% of their income on rent, above the comfortable 12-15% national range. This squeezed budget means less flexibility for unexpected expenses or savings.
Worse than Missouri average
Monroe's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the less affordable tier of Missouri counties. The 1-percentage-point gap signals tighter housing affordability than the state norm.
Mid-range rents, low incomes
Monroe's median rent of $667/month is moderate compared to neighbors like Mississippi ($782) and Miller ($724), but the county's median income of $48,299 is among the region's lowest. This income-to-cost mismatch drives the affordability challenge.
Monroe's income-cost imbalance
Monroe County residents earn $48,299 annually, paying $667/month in rent or $557/month for mortgages on homes valued at $147,400. For renters, housing devours roughly one-sixth of gross income, limiting resources for other needs.
Monroe requires careful budgeting
If you're considering Monroe County, the 16.6% rent-to-income ratio signals tighter affordability than statewide averages. Compare it to nearby Mercer (10.9%) or Moniteau (14.1%) to ensure the best fit for your budget.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,127
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.8%
of gross income
The median home in Monroe County may be a stretch
Median home value is $147,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,177 vs. your max of $1,127.
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.