Average Rent in Howard County, MO↓ Rents falling 5.2% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 212,850
Market Overview
Howard County, MO has rental prices ranging from $689/month to $1,536/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $757/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $69,463/year, spending $757/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Howard County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $990/month, Howard County ranks #24 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 73% of all US cities in our data.
The Howard County Rental Market
The Howard County, MO area has a population of about 212,850 and 40% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Howard County, MO have fallen by $54/month (5.2%) over the past year, from $1,044 to $990. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Howard County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,280. The local median household income of $69,463 exceeds that threshold by $39,183, making Howard County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Howard County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.5%, 0.6 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 Howard 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 | — |
| Columbia | $749 | $959 | $1,076 | $1,459 | — |
| Joplin | $904 | $910 | $1,153 | $1,501 | — |
| Jefferson City | $731 | $735 | $962 | $1,332 | — |
| St. Francois County | $750 | $755 | $988 | $1,195 | — |
Rent or Buy in Howard County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Howard County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Howard 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 Howard CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Howard County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Howard CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections