Average Rent in Madison County, MO↑ Rents rising 4.1% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 12,665
Market Overview
Madison County, MO has rental prices ranging from $619/month to $1,394/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $633/month — 55% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,435/year, spending $633/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Madison County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $830/month, Madison County ranks #32 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 94% of all US cities in our data.
The Madison County Rental Market
The Madison County, MO area has a population of about 12,665 and 25% 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 Madison County, MO have risen by $33/month (4.1%) over the past year, from $797 to $830. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Madison County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $25,320. The local median household income of $58,435 exceeds that threshold by $33,115, making Madison County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Madison County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Madison County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Madison CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Madison County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Madison CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections