Average Rent in Polk County, MO↑ Rents rising 5.0% YoY

Polk County, MO has rental prices ranging from $677/month to $1,406/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $681/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,686/year, spending $681/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Polk County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $837/month, Polk County ranks #29 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 94% of all US cities in our data.

The Polk County Rental Market

The Polk County, MO area has a population of about 32,109 and 29% 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 Polk County, MO have risen by $40/month (5.0%) over the past year, from $797 to $837. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Polk County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,240. The local median household income of $56,686 exceeds that threshold by $29,446, making Polk County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Polk County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.0%, 0.1 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.

Is Polk County, MO Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Polk County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Polk County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.