Cost of Living in Pike County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pike County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pike County ranks #1,140 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pike County, Missouri
Pike keeps housing costs lean
Pike County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.5% sits right at Missouri's state average and beats the national norm, meaning renters here enjoy genuine affordability. Median household income of $57,572 stays close to the state, but lower rents—$742/month—keep the housing burden light.
Missouri's affordable sweet spot
Pike County ranks among Missouri's more affordable counties with a 15.5% rent-to-income ratio, nearly matching the state benchmark of 15.6%. At this level, housing takes a reasonable share of income, leaving room for other essentials.
The budget option in central Missouri
Pike's $742 median rent undercuts Phelps ($801) and trails Ralls ($765) only slightly, making it one of the cheapest rental markets in this region. Homebuyers face median values near $129,400, the lowest among immediate neighbors, amplifying Pike's bargain appeal.
Renting and owning both fit the budget
Renters pay $742/month (15.5% of income) while homeowners spend $615/month (12.8% of income), making Pike exceptional for affordability across both categories. The gap suggests strong homeownership value, with owner costs dramatically lower than rent.
Pike is a mover's smart play
If affordability drives your decision, Pike County delivers some of Missouri's lowest rents and lowest home values, freeing cash for savings or life goals. Compare it directly with Putnam County, which rivals Pike's affordability, to pick your perfect fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pike County
Affordability Verdict
Pike County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $742/month — about 15.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Pike County is $742/month, while owner costs run $615/month. Owning saves approximately $127/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,357/year. With a median household income of $57,572, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Pike County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Missouri, Pike County is less affordable than DeKalb County by roughly 7% ($742/mo vs $796/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pike County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,343
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pike County
Median home value is $129,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,033 vs. your max of $1,343.
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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