Average Rent in McDonald County, MO↓ Rents falling 25.5% YoY🔻 Cheapest in MO
HUD FY2021 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 23,492
Market Overview
McDonald County, MO has rental prices ranging from $567/month to $927/month in 2021, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $581/month — 58% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $48,145/year, spending $581/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How McDonald County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $662/month, McDonald County ranks #94 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 100% of all US cities in our data.
The McDonald County Rental Market
The McDonald County, MO area has a population of about 23,492 and 32% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in McDonald County, MO have fallen by $226/month (25.5%) over the past year, from $888 to $662. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in McDonald County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $23,240. The local median household income of $48,145 exceeds that threshold by $24,905, making McDonald County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
McDonald County, MO has an unemployment rate of 5.4%, 1.5 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 FY2021Is McDonald 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 McDonald County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real McDonald County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in McDonald 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 McDonald CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how McDonald County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare McDonald CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections