Average Rent in Lewis County, MO↑ Rents rising 3.4% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in MO
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 9,945
Market Overview
Lewis County, MO has rental prices ranging from $576/month to $1,092/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 $52,340/year, spending $628/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Lewis County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $824/month, Lewis County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Lewis County Rental Market
The Lewis County, MO area has a population of about 9,945 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 Lewis County, MO have risen by $27/month (3.4%) over the past year, from $797 to $824. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Lewis 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 $52,340 exceeds that threshold by $27,220, making Lewis County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Lewis 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 Lewis 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 Lewis County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Lewis County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Lewis 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 Lewis CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Lewis County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Lewis CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections