Cost of Living in Morgan County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Morgan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Morgan County ranks #1,226 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Morgan County, Missouri
Morgan's rent burden significantly stressed
Morgan County renters spend 16.7% of their income on rent, above the comfortable 12-15% national range. This elevated burden leaves households with less margin for unexpected expenses or financial goals.
Above Missouri state average
Morgan's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the less affordable category of Missouri counties. The 1.1-percentage-point gap reflects tighter housing affordability than the statewide norm.
Higher rents on lower incomes
Morgan's median rent of $692/month sits in the midrange of surrounding counties, but the county's median income of $49,663 is among the region's lowest. This income-cost gap drives Morgan's affordability squeeze.
Morgan's compressed household budget
Morgan County residents earn $49,663 annually, paying $692/month in rent or $743/month for mortgages on homes valued at $180,400. Renters see roughly 17% of gross income consumed by housing, leaving tight budgets for other priorities.
Morgan requires income-conscious planning
If you're relocating to Morgan County, the 16.7% rent-to-income ratio means housing is less affordable than nearby options like Mercer (10.9%) or Moniteau (14.1%). Ensure your income aligns with the area's costs before moving.
Cost of Living Advisory: Morgan County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Morgan County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $692/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Morgan County pay $692/month on average, compared to $743/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 7%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,843/year. With a median household income of $49,663, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Morgan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Livingston County where rent averages $747/month, Morgan County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Morgan County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,159
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Morgan County may be a stretch
Median home value is $180,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,440 vs. your max of $1,159.
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 Morgan County, Missouri?
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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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