Cost of Living in Scotland County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Scotland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Scotland County ranks #535 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Scotland County, Missouri
Scotland County offers exceptional rental value
Scotland County's rent-to-income ratio of 9.2% significantly outperforms national trends, with renters dedicating less than two-thirds the typical national share to housing. At $516 monthly rent against a median household income of $67,568, this county combines low costs with above-average income stability.
Scotland County ranks among Missouri's best
Scotland County's 9.2% rent-to-income ratio substantially beats Missouri's 15.6% state average, placing it among the state's most affordable counties. The median income of $67,568 further strengthens housing affordability here.
Scotland County combines low rent and solid income
Scotland County's $516 rent undercuts the state median of $768 by nearly one-third, and its $67,568 median income tops most neighboring counties. This combination creates the region's strongest rental affordability profile.
Housing takes just 9.2% of household income
Scotland County renters allocate 9.2% of their $67,568 income to rent—less than $6,200 annually—leaving ample resources for utilities, savings, and discretionary spending. Home buyers encounter ownership costs of $809 monthly with median home values of $141,100, also highly accessible relative to income.
Scotland County balances affordability and income
Scotland County deserves serious consideration for relocating renters: $516 monthly rent, 9.2% rent-to-income ratio, and $67,568 median income create exceptional affordability without sacrificing income stability. This county combines the best of both worlds—cheap housing and earning power.
Cost of Living Advisory: Scotland County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Scotland County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $516/month in gross rent, with 22.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $516/month rent versus $809/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $293/month cheaper — a 36% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $20,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,671/year. With a median household income of $67,568, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Scotland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Shelby County where rent averages $570/month, Scotland County is approximately 9% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Scotland County
Rent Burden
9.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,577
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Scotland County
Median home value is $141,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,126 vs. your max of $1,577.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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 Scotland County, Missouri?
What is the median rent in Scotland County?
Is Scotland County affordable?
How does Scotland County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Scotland County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Scotland County, Missouri? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Scotland County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.