Average Rent in Dent County, MO↑ Rents rising 11.9% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 14,506
Market Overview
Dent County, MO has rental prices ranging from $735/month to $1,497/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $763/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $54,306/year, spending $763/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Dent County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $998/month, Dent County ranks #21 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 70% of all US cities in our data.
The Dent County Rental Market
The Dent County, MO area has a population of about 14,506 and 23% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Dent County, MO have risen by $106/month (11.9%) over the past year, from $892 to $998. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Dent County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,520. The local median household income of $54,306 exceeds that threshold by $23,786, making Dent County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Dent County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.0%, 0.1 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Dent County, MO Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MOlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield | $908 | $913 | $1,113 | $1,539 | — |
| Cooper County | $695 | $735 | $962 | $1,278 | — |
| Howard County | $689 | $757 | $990 | $1,180 | — |
| Columbia | $749 | $959 | $1,076 | $1,459 | — |
| Joplin | $904 | $910 | $1,153 | $1,501 | — |
| Jefferson City | $731 | $735 | $962 | $1,332 | — |
Rent or Buy in Dent County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Dent County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Dent County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Dent CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Dent County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Dent CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections