Cost of Living in Putnam County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Putnam County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Putnam County ranks #383 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Putnam County, Missouri
Putnam delivers Missouri's best deal
Putnam County's 12.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the most affordable housing markets in Missouri and the nation, nearly 3 percentage points below the state average. Median rent of just $575/month—the cheapest in this analysis—makes housing easily manageable on a $56,875 median income.
Rural affordability at its best
Putnam County stands as one of Missouri's most affordable counties, with a 12.1% rent-to-income ratio that leaves substantial income for other needs. This rural gem offers genuine breathing room in a state where many counties struggle with affordability.
The bargain champion of the region
Putnam's $575 median rent beats Pike ($742) by $167 and towers below Pulaski ($1,072) by nearly $500, making it the clear budget leader. Median home values of $111,600 match Pike's as the region's lowest, broadening Putnam's affordability edge.
Housing leaves room to breathe
Renters spend just $575/month (12.1% of income) while homeowners pay $802/month (16.9% of income), giving Putnam renters exceptional relief. Homeownership costs more here, but even at 16.9%, owner costs remain manageable statewide.
Putnam is the ultimate affordability play
Putnam County excels for remote workers, retirees, or anyone prioritizing low housing costs and financial flexibility over metro amenities. If you're choosing between Putnam and Pike, both offer outstanding value—Putnam pulls ahead on pure affordability, Pike on size and services.
Cost of Living Advisory: Putnam County
Affordability Verdict
Putnam County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $575/month representing approximately 12.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 36.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Putnam County pay $575/month on average, compared to $802/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 28%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $23,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,371/year. With a median household income of $56,875, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 36.0% of renter households in Putnam County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ozark County where rent averages $626/month, Putnam County is approximately 8% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Putnam County
Rent Burden
12.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,327
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Putnam County
Median home value is $111,600. Estimated monthly cost: $891 vs. your max of $1,327.
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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