Average Rent in Knox County, MO↑ Rents rising 0.7% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in MO
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 3,760
Market Overview
Knox County, MO has rental prices ranging from $615/month to $1,242/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $628/month — 55% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,333/year, spending $628/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Knox County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $824/month, Knox County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Knox County Rental Market
The Knox County, MO area has a population of about 3,760 and 14% 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 Knox County, MO have risen by $6/month (0.7%) over the past year, from $818 to $824. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Knox County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $25,120. The local median household income of $53,333 exceeds that threshold by $28,213, making Knox County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Knox County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.9%, 1.0 percentage point 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 FY2025Is Knox 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 | $790 | $795 | $998 | $1,372 | — |
| Cooper County | $565 | $628 | $824 | $1,027 | — |
| Howard County | $625 | $695 | $912 | $1,099 | — |
| Columbia | $691 | $862 | $1,007 | $1,360 | — |
| Joplin | $830 | $835 | $1,036 | $1,327 | — |
| Jefferson City | $677 | $681 | $891 | $1,249 | — |
Rent or Buy in Knox County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Knox County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Knox 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 Knox CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Knox County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Knox CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections