Average Rent in Phelps County, MO↑ Rents rising 1.5% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 44,948
Market Overview
Phelps County, MO has rental prices ranging from $672/month to $1,164/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $680/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $55,427/year, spending $680/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Phelps County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $878/month, Phelps County ranks #17 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 80% of all US cities in our data.
The Phelps County Rental Market
The Phelps County, MO area has a population of about 44,948 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Phelps County, MO have risen by $13/month (1.5%) over the past year, from $865 to $878. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Phelps County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,200. The local median household income of $55,427 exceeds that threshold by $28,227, making Phelps County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Phelps 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 FY2025Is Phelps 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 Phelps County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Phelps County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Phelps 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 Phelps CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Phelps County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Phelps CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections