Average Rent in Lawrence County, MO↑ Rents rising 9.9% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 38,392
Market Overview
Lawrence County, MO has rental prices ranging from $719/month to $1,505/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $746/month — 47% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $55,849/year, spending $746/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Lawrence County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $976/month, Lawrence County ranks #27 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 74% of all US cities in our data.
The Lawrence County Rental Market
The Lawrence County, MO area has a population of about 38,392 and 27% 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 Lawrence County, MO have risen by $88/month (9.9%) over the past year, from $888 to $976. 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 Lawrence County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,840. The local median household income of $55,849 exceeds that threshold by $26,009, making Lawrence County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Lawrence County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, 0.5 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 Lawrence 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 Lawrence County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Lawrence County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Lawrence 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 Lawrence CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Lawrence County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Lawrence CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections