Cost of Living in Sullivan County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sullivan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sullivan County ranks #414 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sullivan County, Missouri
Sullivan County beats national affordability odds
Sullivan County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national baseline, making it one of the more affordable rental markets relative to resident incomes. At just $692 per month, median rent aligns closely with state averages, while the $55,500 median household income reflects a rural, modest-wage economy.
Missouri's most affordable county for renters
Sullivan County leads Missouri in rental affordability, with a 15.0% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average of 15.6% and its own rental cost of $692. This county punches above its weight for residents seeking low housing cost burdens.
Cheapest rents in the region
Sullivan County's $692 median rent significantly undercuts Stone County ($892) and Taney County ($925), making it the most affordable option for renters in this corner of Missouri. Even renters earning the county's modest $55,500 median income find relief here.
Rent and mortgages nearly equal here
Sullivan County renters pay $692 monthly while homeowners carry $693 in costs—nearly identical figures reflecting balanced affordability. At $55,500 median household income, housing consumes just 15.0% of gross income for renters and 15.0% for owners.
Rural affordability with trade-offs
Sullivan County offers the cheapest rents in the region at $692, ideal for cost-conscious renters, though median home values of just $103,300 suggest limited equity-building potential. Job availability and amenities may be scarcer than in wealthier, more urban counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sullivan County
Affordability Verdict
Sullivan County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $692/month representing approximately 15.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 18.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $692/month rent versus $693/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $1/month cheaper — a 0% difference.
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 $29,700/year. With a median household income of $55,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in Sullivan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Sullivan County sits 7% less expensive than Livingston County ($747/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sullivan County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,295
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Sullivan County
Median home value is $103,300. Estimated monthly cost: $825 vs. your max of $1,295.
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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